Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Socket set (various sizes)
* Ratchet and extensions
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
* Pliers (needle-nose and regular)
* Wrench (possibly)
* Wire cutters/strippers (if replacing wiring harness components)
* New wiper motor (ensure it's the correct one for your year and model)
* Shop towels or rags
* Possibly a helper
Steps:
1. Disconnect the Battery: This is crucial to prevent electrical shorts and injury. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first.
2. Access the Wiper Motor: The wiper motor is usually located under the cowl (the area where the windshield meets the hood). You'll likely need to remove the wiper arms and cowl panel to access it.
* Wiper Arm Removal: Most likely, you'll need to use a wiper arm puller tool to remove the arms from the wiper motor shaft. If you don't have one, you can try carefully using pliers, but be extremely cautious not to scratch or damage the windshield. Mark the position of the arms before removal for easier reinstallation.
* Cowl Panel Removal: This usually involves removing various clips, screws, and possibly nuts holding the cowl panel in place. Consult your repair manual for precise locations. Be gentle to avoid breaking any plastic clips.
3. Disconnect Electrical Connections: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors from the wiper motor. Take photos or make notes of how they were connected to avoid confusion during reassembly. You might need to gently pry the connectors apart.
4. Remove the Wiper Motor: Once the electrical connectors and any linkage are disconnected, the wiper motor itself is usually held in place by bolts or nuts. Use your sockets and wrenches to remove these fasteners. Pay attention to how the motor is oriented in the housing.
5. Install the New Wiper Motor: Carefully install the new wiper motor, ensuring it's properly seated and aligned. Secure it with the fasteners you removed earlier.
6. Reconnect Electrical Connections: Reconnect the electrical connectors to the new wiper motor, carefully matching them to their original positions.
7. Reinstall the Cowl Panel: Carefully reattach the cowl panel, ensuring all clips and fasteners are securely in place.
8. Reinstall the Wiper Arms: Carefully reattach the wiper arms to the new motor shaft, making sure they are correctly aligned with the markings you made earlier.
9. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
10. Test the Wiper Motor: Turn on your wipers to ensure they operate correctly in all speeds and positions.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A 1997 Ford F-150 repair manual is your best friend for this job. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your truck's model.
* Rust: The fasteners may be rusted, so use penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) to help loosen them.
* Wiring: If any wiring is damaged or brittle, it's a good idea to replace it while you have access.
* Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on your vehicle.
This is a simplified overview. The actual process may differ slightly depending on your specific truck's configuration. If you're not comfortable with this type of repair, it's best to take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installing the wiper motor can lead to further damage.
