* Driver's seat armrest: This is often integrated into the seat itself. Replacing it might involve removing the entire seat, which is a more involved process. You'll need to:
1. Disconnect the battery: This is crucial to prevent electrical shorts.
2. Remove the seatbelt: Detach the seatbelt from the seat and the vehicle's anchoring points.
3. Remove any seat tracks: This involves unscrewing or unbolting the tracks that allow the seat to slide.
4. Disconnect electrical connectors: There might be connectors for seat heaters or other features.
5. Lift the seat out: Carefully lift the seat out of the van.
6. Disassemble the seat: This part is tricky and depends entirely on the seat's design. You might need to remove upholstery, screws, clips, or rivets to access the armrest. There are often hidden screws or fasteners under plastic covers. You might find diagrams online for your specific van's seat model (search for "[Your Van's Model] seat removal").
7. Replace the armrest: Install the new armrest, following the reverse order of disassembly.
8. Reassemble the seat and reinstall it.
* Passenger seat armrest: Similar to the driver's seat, the passenger seat armrest might be integrated into the seat. Follow steps similar to those above.
* Center console armrest (if equipped): This is usually a separate piece and easier to replace. You'll likely need to:
1. Remove any screws or clips: These are usually located underneath or on the sides of the armrest. You might need a trim removal tool to avoid damaging the plastic.
2. Disconnect any electrical connectors: If the armrest houses a cupholder light or other features.
3. Lift the armrest off: Carefully lift the armrest up and off its mounting points.
4. Install the new armrest: Follow the reverse order of removal.
Before you start:
* Identify your specific van model: (e.g., Econoline, Club Wagon, etc.) This will significantly help you find specific repair manuals or diagrams online.
* Find a repair manual: A Haynes or Chilton manual for your specific year and model will be incredibly helpful. These manuals provide detailed instructions and diagrams.
* Source a replacement armrest: You might find a used armrest on sites like eBay or salvage yards, or a new one from a Ford parts dealer.
* Gather your tools: You'll likely need screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), possibly a wrench, possibly a trim removal tool, and potentially a rivet gun or other specialized tools depending on the design of your armrest.
Without knowing the *specific* armrest you need to replace, this is the most general advice possible. Searching online for "[Your Van's Model] armrest replacement" or "[Your Van's Model] seat removal" will yield more specific results. Remember to take pictures as you disassemble things to help you remember how to put it back together. If you're uncomfortable with this repair, take it to a mechanic.
