flhthemi,
No, the sleeve doesn't have to be tapered, but you'll get a tighter fit if it is. Here's how I did this: The wiper is held on with a small metric nut. Don't remember the size, but the back side of the wiper (where the shaft is) is a hinged cover. Just snap it up gently and you'll see the nut. The shaft is a tapered, grooved thingy with the male threads. Gently pry up on the wiper assembly to get it off. Don't scratch your baby. You may have to use a little force, a tap with a hammer while pulling up, or puller the first time. Just don't overtighten the nut when you put it back on and it will be easy next time. The stainless steel sleeve (no rust) is some kind of concrete expansion sleeve and is also tapered on the inside. I went to my local nut and bolt supplier and showed him what I needed and that is what he came up with. I had to use my carbide cutoff saw to cut it to the correct length though. Finding the metric acorn nut was also fun. I think I finally found it at Home Depot or Lowes...don't remember. Anyway, in the winter I take it off, wrap it in cloth and put it in the spare tire well so it won't rattle around. Hope this helps.