General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Jack up the van securely using jack stands, never rely solely on a jack. Chock the front wheels. Disconnect the battery's negative terminal.
2. Remove the Wheel and Tire: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the vehicle. Remove the wheel and tire.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use a suitable wrench or socket to remove the caliper bolts. Carefully hang the caliper using a bungee cord or wire to keep it out of the way without stressing the brake line. *Do not let the caliper dangle by the brake line.*
4. Remove the Rotor (if applicable): Depending on your Caravan's configuration, the rotor might need to be removed before accessing the bearing. This usually involves removing some bolts or using a rotor puller.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a very large nut and may require a breaker bar and impact wrench to loosen. Mark its position relative to the axle before loosening to ensure proper reinstallation and alignment.
6. Remove the Axle Flange: This will likely require a slide hammer or axle puller. The axle flange is the part holding the wheel bearing in place. This is often the most difficult part of the process.
7. Remove the Wheel Bearing: Once the axle flange is off, the bearing should be accessible. It may be pressed into place, requiring a bearing press or other specialized tools to remove it. Hammering it out is risky and could damage the hub or bearing.
8. Installation: Installation is generally the reverse of removal, but requires precise alignment and correct tightening torques. Using a bearing press for installation is highly recommended.
Tools you'll likely need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Breaker bar and possibly an impact wrench (for axle nut)
* Caliper removal tool
* Rotor removal tool (if necessary)
* Axle puller
* Slide hammer (possibly)
* Bearing press
* Torque wrench
* Penetrating oil
* Repair manual specific to your 1999 Dodge Caravan
Important Considerations:
* Wheel Bearings are precision parts. Incorrect installation can lead to premature failure and potential safety hazards.
* Correct torque specifications are crucial. Use your repair manual to find the proper torque values for all bolts and nuts.
* If you're uncomfortable with any of these steps, take your Caravan to a qualified mechanic. This is not a beginner's job. Attempting it without the proper knowledge and tools can cause significant damage.
This is a simplified overview. Refer to a detailed repair manual for your specific vehicle model to ensure you have the correct procedure and torque specifications. A reputable online parts supplier may also have repair guides available for download. Remember safety first!
