Can you replace the rod bearings in a Ford van without pulling motor?

No, you cannot reliably replace rod bearings in a Ford van engine without pulling the motor. While some incredibly skilled mechanics *might* attempt partial disassembly to access the bearings, it's extremely difficult, risky, and generally not recommended. The space constraints within the engine bay make proper access and torque application nearly impossible.

Attempting this in-situ significantly increases the risk of:

* Damaging other engine components: The crankshaft needs to be precisely aligned and supported during bearing replacement. Without removing the engine, this is incredibly challenging and increases the chance of damaging the crankshaft, oil pump, or other related parts.

* Improper torque: Rod bearing torque is critical. Incorrect torque can lead to premature bearing failure, crankshaft damage, and catastrophic engine failure. Achieving the proper torque without sufficient access and leverage is nearly impossible.

* Incomplete cleaning: Removing and replacing bearings requires meticulous cleaning of the bearing surfaces. In-situ replacement makes thorough cleaning very difficult, leading to contamination and premature failure.

In short, while theoretically possible for someone with exceptional mechanical skills and specialized tools, the risk far outweighs the benefit. Removing the engine is the correct and far safer procedure for proper rod bearing replacement.