How to Install the Front Struts in a 2001 Dodge Caravan

The struts on the front end of your Dodge Caravan keep the vehicle stable and absorb the shocks of the road. If you are installing new struts onto your van, you must remove the old struts first. You might also just need to remove the current struts for inspection and replacing certain parts like the coil spring. In either case, installing a full strut assembly is a challenging job that will require at least two people.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jack stands
• Lug wrench
• Chalk/washable paint
• Torx wrench
• Torque wrench
• Strut assemblies
• Assistant

Removing Struts

1. Raise the front end of the van and secure it on jack stands, then remove the wheel for the struts being replaced. If you are removing both struts and will be re-installing the same ones, mark the left and right strut with chalk or washable paint.

2. Disconnect and remove the brackets connecting the brake hose and the speed sensor cable to the strut bracket. Disconnect the stabilizer bar from the strut assembly with a Torx wrench and 40 IP bit; use a flare nut wrench on the link stud to keep it in place while turning.

3. Remove the bolts connecting the strut assembly to the steering knuckle. Remove the nuts connecting the strut assembly's upper mount to the strut tower; these nuts are accessible from underneath the hood. Lower and remove the strut assembly from its tower; this might take an assistant's help due to the weight.

Installing New Struts

4. Raise and push the strut assembly into its strut tower and make sure its upper studs poke through the holes at the top of the tower. Have an assistant hold the strut in place and install the nuts on the studs, tightening them to 21 foot pounds.

5. Align the steering knuckle with the strut assembly, placing the knuckle's arm into the strut assembly bracket. Align the mounting holes for both the assembly bracket and steering knuckle and install the bolts, tightening them to 65 foot pounds and then an additional 90 degrees.

6. Install the stabilizer bar onto the strut assembly's bracket. Tighten the nut connecting the two to 65 foot pounds. Install the brackets connecting the brake hose and speed sensor cable to the strut assembly brackets.

7. Reconnect the wheels and lower the vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need to take the van to an alignment shop after installation to see if the van's alignment needs adjusting. The specific torque for the nuts and bolts can vary depending on the year your Caravan is.

References

• Chilton Chrysler Caravan/Voyager/Town and Country Repair Manual; 2002