1998 Ford Windstar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 292

Maintenance and Care Wiper Blades Check the windshield wipers at least twice a year. Also check them whenever they seem less effective than usual. Such substances as tree sap and some hot wax treatments used by commercial car washes reduce the effectiveness of wipers. If the blades do not wipe properly, clean both the windshield and the wiper blades. Use undiluted windshield washer solution or a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly with clear water. Do not use fuel, kerosene, paint thinner, or other solvents to clean your wiper blades. These will damage your blades. Your wipers have a service feature that allows you to pull the wiper arms and blades away from the windshield and into an upright position. This service position allows you easy access to the blades from either side of your vehicle. To reach the wiper blades easily, turn the ignition switch to ACCESSORY and turn your wipers on. Wait for them to reach a vertical position and turn the ignition to OFF. Moving the wipers manually may damage them. Wiper Blade Replacement If the wipers still do not work properly after you clean them, you may need to replace the wiper blade assembly. When replacing the wiper blade assembly always use a Motorcraft part or equivalent. To replace the wiper blades: 1. Pull the wiper arm away from the windshield and into the lock position. 2. Turn the blade at an angle from the wiper arm. Squeeze the lock tabs of the plastic clip together to release the blade and pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield to remove it from the arm. 293