the hose leading from the reservoir to the hood sprays is torn.
i have a replacement hose, but i can't seem to find the reservoir outlet point.
how do i get at it?

Welcome to the forum!

What year is your Taurus? For future posts, please be sure to include model year, engine size, body style if relevant (sedan/wagon) and any other potentially relevant information.

-Rod

oh, its a 2002 Ford Taurus SES (sedan) with a 3.0 OHV V6.

On your 2002 sedan, the washer hose is located underneath the reservoir. Your quickest way to access it will be to jack and properly support the car on the RH front, remove the RH front wheel, then remove the 4 screws and the pin-type retainer to free the fenderwell liner. This should give you access to the washer hose at the pump. Have a cap or plug handy since when you unplug the hose, the washer fluid will be free to drain out of the reservoir.

-Rod

^ thanks. i plan on replacing it this weekend. i'll let you know how it goes.