Description

This DIY repair and service manual by Haynes, covers all full-size 1971-2003 Dodge and Plymouth vans with six-cylinder inline, V6, and V8 engines. Notice: The manual does not include information specific to CNG models.
Book Excerpt: 1971-2003 Dodge, Plymouth Van Repair Manual INLINE SIX-CYLINDER ENGINE

VALVE SPRINGS, RETAINERS AND SEALS | REPLACEMENT
(Refer to illustrations 6.7, 6.16, 6.18 and 6.20) NOTE: Broken valve springs and defective valve stem seals can be replaced without removing the cylinder head. Two special tools and a compressed air source are normally required to perform this operation, so read through this Section carefully and rent or buy the tools before beginning the job.

Remove the valve cover (see Section 4).

Remove the spark plugs (see Chapter 1).

Turn the crankshaft until the number one piston is at top dead center on the compression stroke (see Section 3).

Remove the rocker arm shaft (see Section 5). If you intend to use a lever-type spring compressor, remove the rocker arms and reinstall the shaft.

Thread an adapter into the spark plug hole and connect an air hose from a compressed air source to it. Most auto parts stores can supply the air hose adapter. NOTE: Many cylinder compression gauges utilize a screw-in fitting that may work with your air hose quick-disconnect fitting.

Apply compressed air to the cylinder. The valves should be held in place by the air pressure. If the valve faces or seats are in poor condition, leaks may prevent the air pressure from retaining the valves - valve reconditioning is indicated.

SUSPENSION AND STEERING SYSTEMS

STRUT ROD | REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
(Refer to illustrations 6.2a, 6.2b and 6.3)

Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel.

Remove the cotter pin and nut from the rear end of the strut rod (see illustrations).

Remove the two nuts and bolts that attach the forward end of the strut to the lower control arm (see illustration), then remove the strut rod.

Inspect the bushings and retainers for wear. Replace as necessary.

Installation is the reverse of removal. Be sure to tighten all fasteners to the torque listed in this Chapter's Specifications.

Subject: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 Dodge, Plymouth Van service, maintenance, repair. ISBN-10: 1563925044 | ISBN-13: 9781563925047 | Haynes 30065