Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. I am not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from attempting this repair.
Tools You Will Likely Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Securely support the van.
* Wheel Chocks: For safety.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel Hub Puller: Often necessary to remove the hub assembly.
* Socket Set and Wrenches: Various sizes.
* Hammer and Punch: Possibly needed to remove parts.
* Bearing Packer: To properly pack the new bearings with grease.
* New Wheel Bearings and Seals: Get the correct parts for your van!
* Grease: Appropriate grease for wheel bearings.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening nuts to the correct specification.
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster, etc.): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect yourself.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise and Secure the Van: Safely lift the van using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor: This will vary depending on your brake system. Support the caliper to prevent damage to the brake line.
5. Remove the Cotter Pin and Castle Nut: This secures the wheel bearing to the spindle.
6. Remove the Hub Assembly: This is where the hub puller will likely be necessary. Sometimes a large puller is needed for the whole assembly, other times you might need to remove other components before you can access the bearings. Your repair manual will detail this process.
7. Remove the Old Bearings and Seals: Once the hub is removed, carefully remove the old bearings and seals. They may be pressed in and require a bearing race and seal installer/remover toolset.
8. Clean the Hub and Spindle: Thoroughly clean the hub and spindle to remove any old grease and debris.
9. Pack the New Bearings with Grease: Use the bearing packer to properly fill the new bearings with grease. Don't overpack them.
10. Install the New Seals and Bearings: Carefully install the new seals and bearings onto the spindle. Use the correct tools to avoid damaging the parts.
11. Reassemble the Hub Assembly: Install the hub assembly, ensuring everything is aligned correctly.
12. Tighten the Castle Nut: Tighten the castle nut to the specification in your repair manual.
13. Install the Cotter Pin: Secure the castle nut with the cotter pin.
14. Reinstall the Rotor and Caliper: Reinstall the rotor and brake caliper, making sure the caliper is properly seated and functioning.
15. Reinstall the Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification.
16. Lower the Van: Carefully lower the van from the jack stands.
17. Test Drive: Test drive the van, carefully checking for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* Torque Specifications: Using a torque wrench and following the correct torque specifications is crucial to prevent damage and ensure safe operation.
* Bearing Preload: Proper bearing preload is essential. Your repair manual will explain how to achieve this correctly. Incorrect preload can lead to premature bearing failure.
* Parts: Get high-quality replacement bearings and seals from a reputable supplier.
* Safety: This is a potentially dangerous job. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic.
This is a complex process, and this is a simplified overview. Again, refer to a repair manual specific to your 1981 Dodge van for detailed and accurate instructions. Failing to do so could result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury.
