Market Position:
The 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder was a significant entry in the compact sporty convertible segment, competing with cars like the Toyota Celica Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible, and Honda Civic del Sol.
Competitive Analysis:
It offered a choice of naturally aspirated or potent turbocharged engines (especially the GS-T and GS-X models), a stylish design, and available all-wheel drive, making it a compelling option for performance-oriented buyers. The Spyder variant added the appeal of open-air motoring.
Key Features:
Available turbocharged engines, optional AWD, sporty styling, convertible roof, a well-regarded chassis derived from Mitsubishi's rally heritage.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Turbocharger System (if applicable), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD/AWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS, Body Electrical, HVAC System, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Convertible Top Mechanism, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Printed (typically wire-bound or case-bound)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing belt/chain, oil pump.
Engine Control:
Detailed explanation of the Electronic Control Unit (ECU), sensor inputs (MAP, TPS, O2, knock, coolant temp, etc.), actuator outputs (injectors, ignition coil, idle air control), diagnostic procedures, and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, fuel injector service, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank removal/installation, evaporative emission control system (EVAP).
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, viscous coupling unit, transfer case, propeller shaft, rear differential inspection and repair (for AWD models).
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic system, actuators, switches, sensors, motor, and manual operation procedures for the power convertible top.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear disc (or drum on some base models). ABS system diagnostics and repair. Brake fluid replacement and bleeding procedures. Parking brake system.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, disassembly, reassembly, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms, pinpoint tests for electrical issues, and guidance for identifying the root cause of problems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, sensor circuits, actuator circuits, and diagnostic connectors.
Diagnostic Codes:
Explanation of OBD-I and OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and procedures for retrieving and clearing them.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed specifications for cylinder honing, piston ring gap, bearing clearance, torque specifications for all engine fasteners, valve lash adjustment (if applicable).
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step procedures for manual transmission clutch replacement, synchronizer inspection, and automatic transmission valve body servicing, torque converter replacement.
Suspension Components:
MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear. Specifications for alignment, shock absorber replacement, bushing service, and component checks.
Steering System:
Power-assisted rack and pinion. Power steering fluid check and replacement, steering rack diagnosis and repair, tie rod end replacement.
File Format:
N/A (Assuming printed, but if digital, it would be PDF)
Print Quality:
High-quality, durable paper stock with clear diagrams and text (typical of factory publications).
Binding Type:
Wire-O or Case Bound (common for large service manuals)
Paper Type:
Heavyweight, possibly coated paper for durability in a workshop environment.
Manual Completeness:
Comprehensive factory service manual covering all aspects of repair and maintenance for the 1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, including all available engine and drivetrain configurations.
Engine Options:
2.4L 4-cylinder (4G64) SOHC 16-valve, 2.0L 4-cylinder (4G63) DOHC 16-valve Turbocharged
4G64 Horsepower:
Approximately 141 hp @ 5500 rpm
4G64 Torque:
Approximately 140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
4G63 Turbo Horsepower:
Approximately 205 hp @ 6000 rpm
4G63 Turbo Torque:
Approximately 203 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium recommended for Turbocharged models)
ECU Type:
Mitsubishi Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with proprietary software.
NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact:
4 Stars (1998 model year - US standards)
NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact:
4 Stars (1998 model year - US standards)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame, often with pop-up roll bars behind the seats (design dependent).
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical for 4G63/4G64 engines, consult specific manual section).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with proper corrosion inhibitors.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi Diaqueen SP III ATF or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues:
Turbocharger failure (especially on high-mileage GST/GSX models), oil seal leaks (crankshaft, valve cover), ABS sensor failures, convertible top hydraulic leaks, catalytic converter issues, rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels).
