Wiper linkage arm disconnected, how to access?

[Captain90s]

The linkage arm for the driver's side windshield wiper somehow came disconnected. I pulled up the plastic cowling, but access to the joint itself is blocked by metal. Maybe I'm missing something obvious, but it looks like I'd have to take the entire panel off the truck to access that one joint? Seems like a pain in the ass, and I'm not sure I have all the tools to do it.

 

[J_C]

Look on the firewall (hood open). Above and to the left of the brake booster should be the wiper motor. Above and to the right of the brake booster should be a panel aka "linkage access cover", behind which is the left driver's wiper linkage. I think it's held on by regular bolts?

I have the following sequence from a Chilton's manual (see attachment):

1. Turn wiper switch on. Turn ignition on until blades are straight up, then turn ignition off to keep them there.

2. Remove the right wiper arm and blade

3. Remove negative battery cable

4. Remove right pivot nut and allow linkage to fall into cowl

5. Remove linkage access cover

6. Reach through the access cover opening and unsnap the wiper motor clip.

7. Push the clip away from the linkage until it clears the nib on the crank pin. Then, push the clip off the linkage.

Chilton's then goes on to describe removing the motor, so I don't know if #7 above or thereafter is useful.