OK, the manual says to remove the blades, raise the hood, lift the arm and pull the latch to its holding position, then rock the arm off the shaft.

Problem is, I cant get the latch to budge... I guess 17yrs of never moving will do that.
Any tips on helping it a long, without damaging it (since the manual has a big WARNING about distorting it).

 

Chemicals. Chemicals are your friend. Some PB Blaster would be perfect. Spray it on there, let it sit for a few, and GENTLY try and pry the latch over with a screwdriver.

 

Yup, have some on there, but it ain't doing it yet... I don't want to get brutal and break it.
Which way is the latch is supposed to move?

 

I think you move the little lever away from the wiper arm to allow it to release. It may also lock the arm up off the windshield, to make removal easier too..... Been a while since I played with mine.