How to Install a Front Stabilizer Bar Link in a 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan

The minivan debuted in 1935 with the release of the Scarab, which was seen as too modern for its time and was short-lived. In 1983, however, Chrysler Corporation shook up the automotive world by releasing two vehicles -- Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager -- that marked the coming-of-age for the minivan class. The 2003 Grand Caravan retained the same basic design of the original version, but with modern looks and amenities. The stabilizer bar keeps the Caravans body from leaning excessively while cornering, lowering the risk of rollover. Replacing a stabilizer bar links on this minivan is a straightforward task that requires only basic mechanical skills.

Instructions

Removal

1

Loosen the Caravans front lug nuts, using a ratchet and socket, on the side needing the new stabilizer bar link. Raise the front of the van with a floor jack and position jack stands under the Caravans subframe. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Remove the front lug nuts and pull the wheel off the front hub.

2

Find the stabilizer link the metal bar connecting one end of the stabilizer bar to the vehicles subframe.

3

Remove the upper stabilizer bar link nut by placing a combination wrench on the flat spots on the links mounting stud and holding the stud steady while removing the retaining nut with a ratchet and socket. Repeat this step on the lower stud.

4

Pull the upper sway bar link stud from the subframe and pull the lower mounting stud from the end of the stabilizer bar. Remove the sway bar link from the Caravan.

Installation

5

Insert the lower stabilizer bar link mounting stud into the hole on the end of the stabilizer bar and hand-tighten the retaining nut onto the stud. Insert the upper stabilizer bar link into the hole in the subframe and hand-tighten its retaining nut onto the stud.

6

Tighten both retaining nuts to 65 foot-pounds with a torque wrench and socket while holding the stud from turning by holding a combination wrench on the flat spots on the stud.

7

Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Raise the Caravan off the jack stands with a floor jack and remove the jack stands. Lower the Dodge to the ground and tighten the lug nuts in a crisscrossing pattern to 100 foot-pounds with a torque wrench and socket.