Here's a general outline; the specifics might vary slightly depending on your exact engine (3.0L or 3.8L) and whether it's a front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive model. Always consult a repair manual specific to your year and model Caravan for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely essential for safety.
* Wheel Chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Engine Support Bar: Crucial to prevent the engine from falling when the mounts are removed. This is a MUST-have tool.
* Socket Set (Metric): Various sizes.
* Wrench Set (Metric): Various sizes.
* Torque Wrench: Essential for proper tightening.
* Pry Bar: May be needed to break loose stubborn bolts.
* Hammer: Potentially needed to help break loose rusted bolts.
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster or similar): Highly recommended to loosen rusted bolts.
* New Motor Mounts: Ensure you get the correct ones for your vehicle.
* Gloves and Safety Glasses: Always protect yourself.
General Steps (This is a simplified overview – refer to your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park the Caravan on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Disconnect the Battery: This prevents accidental shorts and electrical damage.
3. Access the Motor Mounts: This will involve removing various components depending on which mount(s) you're replacing. You'll likely need to access the mounts from underneath the vehicle. This might involve removing some underbody covers or shields.
4. Support the Engine: Use the engine support bar to securely support the weight of the engine. This is critical to prevent damage.
5. Remove the Old Motor Mount(s): This usually involves removing bolts securing the mount to both the engine and the chassis. Penetrating oil is your friend here. Be prepared for stubborn bolts.
6. Install the New Motor Mount(s): Carefully align the new mounts and bolt them in place. Use the correct torque specifications from your repair manual.
7. Lower the Engine (Carefully): Slowly lower the engine using the support bar, ensuring it settles evenly.
8. Reconnect Components: Reinstall any underbody covers or shields that you removed.
9. Recheck Tightness: After everything is reassembled, double-check the tightness of all bolts.
10. Reconnect the Battery: Once everything is secure, reconnect the battery.
11. Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle to ensure the new mounts have resolved the issue.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: On older vehicles like a 1999 Caravan, rust can make bolt removal extremely difficult. Be patient and use penetrating oil liberally.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque is critical to prevent damage and ensure proper function. Don't guess – use a torque wrench and your repair manual.
* Exhaust System: You might need to partially loosen or remove parts of the exhaust system to gain better access to the motor mounts.
* Difficult Access: Access to some motor mounts can be tight and require patience and dexterity.
This is a simplified overview. You absolutely must consult a repair manual specific to your 1999 Dodge Caravan for detailed, step-by-step instructions and torque specifications. Attempting this repair without proper guidance could lead to engine damage or personal injury. If you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, take it to a professional mechanic.
