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Date:         Sat, 23 Feb 2002 14:06:26 -0800
Reply-To:     Todd Last <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Todd Last <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
Subject:      Re: Changing Front Springs
Comments: To: Jim Huskins <pastorjim@NMAX.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed

Assuming that you have a 2wd as the front suspension is different on the 4wd models. Take a look at my web page - I have a few photos of spring replacement: http://rubatoguy.home.mindspring.com/springs2.html

It is not particularly difficult, but is time consuming - particularly the first time you do it. It helps to have two people, but can be done with one. Make sure that you have any other parts that you want to replace when you do the spring replacement. I can't emphasize enough what a good idea it is to replace the anti-sway bar and front radius rod bushings.

I had to use an air-impact wrench to get the front radius rod nuts off - just a heads up in case you run into the same problem. You don't need any special tools, however make sure that you have a jack and jack stands that will lift the front of the van high enough to allow for the lower control arm to drop down enough to remove the springs. Otherwise you will not be able to easily get the spring out.

Tip - it is sometimes easier to re attach the antiswaybar links with the Van back off the jacks sitting on its wheels.

MAKE SURE you recheck the tightness of all the nuts and bolts a week or so after you change the springs or about 100 miles or so. You would be surprised how they can loosen up.

Without the right tools/parts ready it took me a full weekend to do this myself. With all the parts/tools ready a good 6 hours myself With all the parts/tools ready and two people about 3 hours.

Like replacing the fuel tank - it is more tedious than difficult.

Todd '88 Westy

Jim Huskins wrote:

>I would be pleased if someone with appropriate experience would comment on >the difficulty/time involved/tools required. I'm replacing both springs in >my '85 with a pair from a Carat, and I'd like to know how much time to allow >for the project. > >Many thanks, > >Jim H. >


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