| Hank's Tips and Opinions |
| Dodge Caravan |
| Dodge Shadow |
| Important Disclaimer |
| General Thoughts and Opinions |
| The easiest way to pick up some "free" power on the 3.3L engine was to remove the intake air restrictor. The purpose of the restrictor is for noise control, it didn't increase much after removing it. To remove it you must first remove the air box. The restrictor can than be unsnapped by pushing it out from the inside with your thumbs. This applies to the '91 through '95 vans. My fuel mileage and top end performance were both slightly improved. |
| I found the 2.2 and 2.5L engines very reliable. The only problem that stumped me for a while was a nasty reoccurring code "51" problem that also poisoned several O2 sensors. The problem turned out to be caused by a stuck open PCV valve, it was causing the engine to run too lean. |
| All data and modifications found on this website are my opinion only. I am not a licensed mechanic, just a curious "shadetree tinkerer". If you decide to attempt anything it will be at YOUR OWN RISK! I will not be held responsible for any damage or loss. Endorsement of Product names and Trademarks on this page, are my own personal opinion. |
| I don't use or recommend Engine or Transmission additives. Here is a link that backs up my opinion. |
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| The best way to add a Tachometer and gauges? Get one out of a Sport model at your local wrecking yard. I found it to be a direct bolt in, the wiring and sensors needed to support it are already there. |
| If you have a gauge cluster with sticking or inconsistent needles. First try cleaning and carefully tightening the nuts on the rear of the pc board. Also check to see if they rub or bind against the panel. Carefully pull the needle up a 1/16 of an inch or so to cure the sticking. |
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| I replaced the 134a refrigerant in my van with duracool hydrocarbon refrigerant. It's easier on the environment and the system itself. |
| Transmission Tips |
| The 3 speed transmissions are very reliable and with normal maintenance will easily last the life of the car. The 4 speed transmission will also give decent reliability and long life. The key is frequent oil changes using ONLY ATF+3 and keeping the oil cool with a quality transmission oil cooler. I have found a common cause of the "bump shift" is air bubbles in the oil. A clogged or dislodged transmission filter will cause this. Be careful to make sure the filter and o-ring are seated properly. The level of the oil is also VERY IMPORTANT. Keep it at the low end of the range or the oil will foam up. My 4 speed auto now has 200,000 trouble free KM's following this advice. |
| I discovered a trick for replacing wheel bearings on Chryslers with press in front wheel bearings. I remove the whole strut complete with steering knuckle. Then press out the bearing and hub on a shop press, or in a large vise. Then I reinstall the complete strut. This way the front end alignment remains intact and undisturbed. Of course this isn't required on later cars and vans with bolt in bearing assemblies. |
| The larger filter for Ford products fit the Chrysler 2.2L, 2.5L and 3.3L engines perfectly. AC Delco PF2-C, Fram PH8A, Wix 51515 |
| Please send me links to other automotive studies. Tires, Oil, Filters, Etc. So I can include them here |
| Body Care Tips |
| A simple and cheap way to keep rust from eating your car. Twice a year squirt some clean oil into the front inner lip of the hood, rear inner lip of the trunk lid, bottoms of the doors, and inside the lower rocker panels. |
| Heres my oppinion on brake pads. Put a light film of silicone grease on the back of the pads so they they wont squeek. I now use "Titanium ti" pads so far they seem to preform well. I use the cheap Offshore made rotors and have had no problems so far with them. They are only $15. to $20. so I replace them if there is any doubt to their condition when I do the brake pads. The other thing many forget is keep the slider pins on the caliper lubricated with silicone brake grease. |
| Brake Tips |