Target Audience:
Families, commercial users requiring versatile people/cargo transport.
Key Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Mercury Villager, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna.
Van Design:
Front-engine, front-wheel-drive configuration, popular for its spacious interior and modular seating.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, authorized repair and maintenance information essential for keeping the vehicle in optimal condition and performing DIY repairs.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Restraints, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of pages (specific count varies by printing)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, assembly, inspection, and overhaul of all engine components.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair of the 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle shafts, differentials, and related components.
Suspension Front:
Struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion assembly.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Electrical Charging:
Alternator, battery, starter motor, wiring.
Electrical Ignition:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), electronic ignition module.
Electrical Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fuses, relays.
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, controls, refrigerant system.
Body Interior:
Seats, door panels, dashboard, trim, carpeting.
Body Exterior:
Doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, glass, body panels.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, pre-tensioners.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.
Rear:
Torsion beam axle, shocks, bushings, and alignment.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine component replacement (pistons, valves, gaskets), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon problems.
Recalibration Procedures:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors and modules after component replacement.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values.
Depth:
Complete factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code 1:
3.0L (181 cu in) OHV V6 (EGA)
Engine Code 2:
3.3L (203 cu in) OHV V6 (EFA)
Horsepower:
Approx. 150 hp @ 4800 rpm (EGA)
Torque:
Approx. 180 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm (EGA)
Horsepower:
Approx. 180 hp @ 5200 rpm (EFA)
Torque:
Approx. 205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (EFA)
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
ECU:
Proprietary Chrysler PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.1 inches (2847 mm)
Length:
Approx. 178.3 - 189.3 inches (4529 - 4808 mm) (depending on configuration)
Width:
Approx. 72.1 inches (1831 mm)
Height:
Approx. 68.1 - 69.2 inches (1730 - 1758 mm)
Passenger Capacity:
7-8 passengers (depending on seating configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 30-35 cu ft (variable by configuration)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 140-150 cu ft (with all rear seats removed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700 - 4200 lbs (1678 - 1905 kg) (varies by engine, options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 5300 - 5600 lbs (2404 - 2540 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally rated well for its era, but specific ratings vary by model year and testing protocols. Consult NHTSA archives for detailed results.
IIHS Crash Test:
Check IIHS archives for specific ratings. Minivans of this era were evolving in safety performance.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available or standard on certain trims/models.
Airbags Driver:
Driver's side airbag standard.
Airbags Passenger:
Passenger side airbag available or standard on later models/trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all outboard occupants, lap belts for center occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard until later generations; typically relies on seat belt routing.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months under severe driving conditions, or 6,000 miles or 6 months under normal conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations based on oil type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and fluid type (ATF+4 recommended for extended life).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (check specific plug type).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (typically using HOAT coolant).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 is common, check specific engine manual section for exact API service classification and viscosity grade. Chrysler MS-6395 specification may apply.
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange. Never mix coolant types.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 motor vehicle brake fluid.
Transmission Failures:
Some models, particularly earlier NS versions, experienced issues with transmission solenoid packs, valve bodies, and torque converters. Proper fluid maintenance is critical.
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks:
Plastic intake manifold gaskets could sometimes develop leaks, leading to vacuum leaks and performance issues.
Heater Core Leaks:
Common in many minivans of this era, often resulting in coolant leaks and fogged windows.
Power Sliding Door Motors:
Failure of the power sliding door motor or its associated mechanism was a common complaint.
Dashboard Cracking:
Some dashboard materials were prone to cracking due to UV exposure and temperature fluctuations.
