Dodge Caravan 1984-1990 Suspension Specifications
Explore the complete suspension specifications for the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan, including shock absorbers, struts, control arms, and alignment settings. Ideal for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the suspension system of the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan. It is designed to assist mechanics, enthusiasts, and owners in understanding the suspension components, their functions, and maintenance requirements. Use the search functionality to locate specific terms or navigate through sections to explore detailed information about front and rear suspension systems, alignment specifications, and more.
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Key Specifications
Front Spring Rate
120 lbs/in
Rear Spring Rate
180 lbs/in
Front Strut Travel
5.5 inches
Rear Shock Travel
6 inches
Caster Angle
+2.5° to +3.5°
Available Specifications
Front Suspension
The front suspension system of the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan is designed to provide stability, comfort, and handling. This section covers the key components, including the MacPherson strut assembly, control arms, and steering linkage, along with their specifications and maintenance tips.
Front Suspension
The front suspension system of the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan is designed to provide stability, comfort, and handling. This section covers the key components, including the MacPherson strut assembly, control arms, and steering linkage, along with their specifications and maintenance tips.
MacPherson Strut Assembly
- Strut type: Gas-charged hydraulic
- Spring rate: 120 lbs/in
- Mount type: Rubber bushing with bearing
- Travel length: 5.5 inches
- Replacement interval: 60,000-80,000 miles
- Common issues: Strut mount wear, fluid leakage
Control Arms and Bushings
- Material: Steel with rubber bushings
- Bushing type: Hydro-elastic
- Bolt size: 14mm
- Replacement interval: 50,000-70,000 miles
- Common issues: Bushing wear, ball joint failure
Steering Linkage
- Tie rod end type: Greaseable
- Steering gear ratio: 16:1
- Pitman arm length: 6.25 inches
- Common issues: Tie rod wear, loose connections
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Dodge Caravan ensures load-bearing capacity and ride comfort. This section details the torsion beam axle, coil springs, and shock absorbers, along with their specifications and common maintenance concerns.
Rear Suspension
The rear suspension system of the Dodge Caravan ensures load-bearing capacity and ride comfort. This section details the torsion beam axle, coil springs, and shock absorbers, along with their specifications and common maintenance concerns.
Torsion Beam Axle
- Material: High-strength steel
- Beam width: 48 inches
- Bushing type: Rubber
- Replacement interval: 80,000-100,000 miles
- Common issues: Bushing wear, axle misalignment
Coil Springs
- Spring rate: 180 lbs/in
- Wire diameter: 0.625 inches
- Free length: 14 inches
- Common issues: Sagging, corrosion
Shock Absorbers
- Type: Twin-tube hydraulic
- Travel length: 6 inches
- Mount type: Rubber bushing
- Replacement interval: 50,000-70,000 miles
- Common issues: Fluid leakage, reduced damping
Alignment Specifications
Proper alignment is critical for tire wear and vehicle handling. This section provides the factory-recommended alignment settings for the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan, including camber, caster, and toe angles.
Alignment Specifications
Proper alignment is critical for tire wear and vehicle handling. This section provides the factory-recommended alignment settings for the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan, including camber, caster, and toe angles.
Front Alignment
- Camber: -0.5° to +0.5°
- Caster: +2.5° to +3.5°
- Toe-in: 0.10° to 0.20°
- Adjustment method: Eccentric cam bolts
Rear Alignment
- Camber: -1.0° to 0°
- Toe-in: 0.10° to 0.20°
- Adjustment method: Shim or eccentric bolts
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Independent front, solid rear axle
- Configuration
- MacPherson strut front, leaf spring rear
- Platform
- S-Platform (Chrysler S)
- Material
- Steel and rubber components
- Location
- Front and rear undercarriage
Dimensions
- Front Strut Length
- 22.5 inches (571.5 mm)
- Rear Leaf Spring Length
- 52 inches (1320.8 mm)
- Front Spring Rate
- 120 lb/in (21 N/mm)
- Rear Spring Rate
- 180 lb/in (31.5 N/mm)
- Shock ABSorber Travel
- 6 inches (152.4 mm)
- Front Sway Bar Diameter
- 0.875 inches (22.2 mm)
- Rear Sway Bar Diameter
- 0.625 inches (15.9 mm)
Materials
- Springs
- High-tensile steel
- Shock ABSorbers
- Steel casing with hydraulic fluid
- Bushings
- Rubber and polyurethane
- Control Arms
- Forged steel
- Sway Bars
- Chrome-molybdenum steel
Features
- Front Suspension
-
- MacPherson strut design
- Coil springs
- Stabilizer bar
- Hydraulic shock absorbers
- Rear Suspension
-
- Leaf spring setup
- Hydraulic shock absorbers
- Stabilizer bar
- Solid axle
- Ride Quality
-
- Tuned for comfort
- Progressive spring rates
- Hydraulic damping
- Rubber isolators
- Handling
-
- Stabilizer bars for reduced body roll
- Precise steering geometry
- Balanced weight distribution
- Durable bushings
- Durability
-
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
- Heavy-duty components
- Reinforced mounting points
- Sealed bearings
Safety Features
- Structural integrity
-
- Reinforced control arms
- High-strength steel components
- Crash-resistant design
- Stability
-
- Anti-roll bars
- Precise alignment specifications
- Balanced suspension geometry
- Braking Support
-
- Minimized nose dive during braking
- Stable rear axle under load
- Consistent tire contact
Comfort Features
- Vibration Dampening
-
- Rubber bushings
- Hydraulic shocks
- Isolated mounts
- Noise Reduction
-
- Sealed components
- Insulated joints
- Quiet operation
- Ride Smoothness
-
- Progressive spring rates
- Tuned damping
- Balanced suspension
- Load Handling
-
- Stable under heavy loads
- Consistent ride height
- Durable leaf springs
Accessories
- Upgrades
-
- Performance shocks
- Polyurethane bushings
- Heavy-duty springs
- Maintenance Tools
-
- Spring compressors
- Alignment tools
- Torque wrenches
- Replacement Parts
-
- Strut assemblies
- Leaf spring packs
- Shock absorbers
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect shock absorbers
- Check bushings for wear
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Inspect leaf springs
- Verify alignment
- Maintenance Notes
- Regular lubrication and alignment checks are critical for longevity.
Warranty
- Basic Coverage
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Defects in materials and workmanship
- Corrosion Coverage
- Miles: 100,000Years: 5Coverage: Rust-through protection
- Powertrain Coverage
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Suspension components
- Extended Coverage
- Miles: 100,000Years: 7Coverage: Optional extended warranty
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Chrysler Corporation
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Forging
- Heat treatment
- Assembly
- Quality testing
- Quality Control
- Material inspection: 100% testedDurability Testing: Simulated road conditionsFinal Inspection: Visual and functional checks
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled steel usage
- Eco-friendly coatings
- Waste reduction initiatives
- Production Metrics
- Annual Output: 500,000 unitsDefect Rate: 0.5%Lead Time: 4 weeks
Service Information for suspension Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component
- Inspect shock absorbers for leaks
- Check bushings for wear and tear
- Lubricate suspension joints
- Verify alignment specifications
- Inspect leaf springs for cracks
Ensure proper lubrication to prevent premature wear.
- Replace worn bushings
- Inspect and replace shock absorbers if needed
- Check and tighten all suspension bolts
- Inspect control arms for damage
- Test ride quality and adjust as needed
Use torque wrenches for proper bolt tightening.
- Replace leaf springs if sagging
- Overhaul front strut assemblies
- Replace all worn suspension components
- Perform full alignment check
- Test suspension under load
Major service may require specialized tools and equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What suspension components are compatible with the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan?
What suspension components are compatible with the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan?
The 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan is compatible with McPherson struts, coil springs, and shock absorbers designed for front-wheel-drive minivans. Key specifications include a strut length of 22-24 inches and a spring rate of 300-350 lbs/in. Ensure parts are sourced from reputable manufacturers like Monroe or KYB for optimal compatibility. Always cross-reference part numbers with the vehicle's VIN to confirm fitment.
Q2 What maintenance is required for the suspension system?
What maintenance is required for the suspension system?
Regularly inspect the suspension system every 12,000 miles or annually. Check for worn bushings, leaking shocks, and damaged springs. Lubricate ball joints and tie rod ends every 6 months. Replace struts and shocks every 50,000 miles or if you notice excessive bouncing or uneven tire wear. Align the wheels after any suspension repair to ensure proper handling.
Q3 How do I replace the front struts on a 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan?
How do I replace the front struts on a 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan?
To replace the front struts, first, secure the vehicle on jack stands. Remove the wheel and disconnect the sway bar link. Unbolt the strut from the steering knuckle and remove the upper strut mount bolts inside the engine bay. Compress the spring using a spring compressor and transfer it to the new strut. Reinstall the strut, torque all bolts to manufacturer specifications, and repeat for the other side.
Q4 What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
What are common suspension issues and how can I troubleshoot them?
Common issues include uneven tire wear, excessive bouncing, and steering wheel vibration. For uneven wear, check alignment and inspect for worn suspension components. Excessive bouncing indicates worn shocks or struts, which should be replaced. Steering wheel vibration may point to unbalanced wheels or worn ball joints. Use a jack to lift the vehicle and inspect for play in the suspension components.
Q5 How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Dodge Caravan?
How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Dodge Caravan?
Upgrade to high-performance shocks and struts for improved handling. Install polyurethane bushings for increased durability and responsiveness. Lower the vehicle with aftermarket springs for better stability, but ensure alignment is corrected afterward. Regularly inspect and maintain components to prevent wear. Consider adding a rear sway bar to enhance cornering performance.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
1984-1990 Dodge Caravan Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair, including suspension systems.
Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Updates
Coming SoonOfficial bulletin detailing common suspension issues and recommended fixes for the 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan.
Dodge Caravan Suspension Parts Catalog
Coming SoonCatalog listing all available suspension components, including OEM and aftermarket options.
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