wiper linkage issue

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so the delay failed on my wiper pulse unit. I replaced the motor with a used assembly from the JY. it worked fine for a little while after replacing the motor but then my wife went to drive the car the other day and the linkage fell off (the ball and socket end). i think it may have been slightly bent when it fell off because now the geometry is screwed up. the arm was rubbing against the firewall and falling off. i took the linkage off and bent it only slightly, this gave the nessary clearance between the firewall and the linkage. i went to put the cowl back on and now it hits the cowl. im getting really annoyed at this and don't now know what to do. it seems like the clearences are very tight here and if its off just a little its going to have interference issues. when i bent it, it was only slightly but now it hits the cowl as i said. so do i need a new linkage OR should i attempt to fix the one i have? i have never had this problem before, usually when i replace a motor i don't have anymore problems. if i decide to buy another linkage should i just go and buy a used one on ebay or should i buy a NOS brand new unit. price on used is $30 price on brand new is around $100. is this a high wear item on this car?

[xxdabroxx]

how much of a pain is it to get to and fiddle with? If it's easy, I'd just bend it a couple more times until it fits. I've always been leery of used parts, but the cost difference is pretty big.

I think there is a car about to be parted out on the forum, that may be a good place to try too.