Hi Ed
the rear wiper and rear defroster switches are both on the center pod by the radio, from your post it doenst sound like you are talking about the front wipers which is a whole different procedure
the center pod assembly can be removed fairly easily. There are three screws across the top, one or two you will see when you open the glove box and one on the left side near the bottom. You will also need to remove the ash tray and find a nut there to remove. You will also probably have to at least take the front of your radio off. Plus the nuts that hold the switches on you refer to of course.
Sounds harder than it is and Im probably forgetting something, but just go slow and you will find all the connections.
Once removed you have easy access to the parts you mention to repair or replace them.
thanks