I like pictures, so here's a site with pics, which covers part of what you're dealing with.

http://californiavan.com/frontend/80-84lowerballjoints/

________________________________
 From: ralph meyermann <ralphmeyermann@GMAIL.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Sent: Saturday, May 5, 2012 3:16 PM
Subject: Swapping out bad spindle/s

Hi Vanagoneers! Another issue with Velma my most enjoyable money pit!! I am
currenly swapping spindles/hubs due to po's lack of everything!! I noticed
different casting marks on the spindles? I believe the donor was an 83 I
hope!! If not I know the upper balljoints just bolt in to the upper A frame
control arm. The question is the lower balljoint,is it the same size on the
spindle? I know they changed the lower contol arm in november 84? Since Im
in there now I figure its best to replace upper lower and inner outer
balljoints and bushings including strut arm bushings for less to worry
about/knowing its all good!! Any help would be nice since my bentley seemed
to be lacking part#s to refer to!

Velma 82diesel 1.6 na westy