Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) / Off-Road Vehicle
Reputation:
Renowned for its go-anywhere capability, robust construction, and simple, utilitarian design. A cult favorite for off-roading and customization.
Competitors 1990S:
Jeep Wrangler (YJ), Toyota Land Cruiser (FJ70/80 series), Nissan Patrol (Y60), Mitsubishi Pajero (first generation).
Off Road Capability:
Lightweight construction, short wheelbase, high ground clearance, selectable 4WD with low-range gearing, solid front and rear axles (early models).
Simplicity:
Mechanical fuel injection (early models), basic electrical systems, easy to maintain and repair.
Versatility:
Available in soft-top, hard-top, and pickup configurations.
Coverage Scope:
Supplementary Service Manual - Comprehensive diagnosis, maintenance, adjustments, service operations, component replacement, and disassembly procedures.
Estimated Page Count:
High (Specific number not provided, but implies full workshop manual content)
Manual Type:
Supplementary Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
PDF Download (Software Database Download)
Engine:
G13A (1.3L SOHC Inline-4) - Fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control, engine mechanicals.
Transmission:
Manual (M50, M52) and Automatic (less common for this period, but coverage implied if equipped) - Clutch, gearbox, driveline, transfer case, propeller shafts, CV joints.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, steering gear, power steering (if equipped).
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brakes - Hydraulic system, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, ignition, instruments, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules (basic).
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, convertible top (if applicable).
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire sizing, rotation, balancing.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, component testing procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle speed and mixture, ignition timing, clutch free play, parking brake adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair or diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive Workshop Level - Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics covering full rebuilds, complex diagnostics, and precise adjustments.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable for workshop use.
Quality:
Dependent on original source, but typically high resolution for diagrams and text.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
1298 cc (1.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 75.5 mm
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 63-66 hp @ 5500 rpm (depending on market and specific configuration)
Torque Net:
Approx. 76-79 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (depending on market and specific configuration)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (common for this period and engine) or Fuel Injection (MPI on later JDM/some export models, but manual covers G13A which is typically carbureted for this generation in North America).
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 40 Liters (10.6 US Gallons)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2030 mm (80 inches)
Length:
Approx. 3500 mm (138 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1545 mm (60.8 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1650 mm (65 inches) (with hardtop)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 200 mm (7.9 inches)
Approach Angle:
Approx. 42 degrees
Departure Angle:
Approx. 41 degrees
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950 kg (2094 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not officially specified for road use in many markets due to its lightweight and chassis design; intended for light trailer towing.
Crash Test Data:
Limited data available from standardized modern crash tests due to its design era and market segment. Rollover potential is a known concern for all light utility vehicles, especially with a high center of gravity.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS not available.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering mechanism. Power steering optional or market dependent.
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear).
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll bar within the windshield frame and B-pillars. Hardtop models offer more structural protection.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
Every engine oil change.
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles (38,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 6,000 miles (9,600 km), replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles depending on usage and plug type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change as needed. Automatic: Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change as needed.
Differential Fluid Change:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change as needed.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH classification, SAE 10W-30 recommended for most climates. Check owner's manual for specific viscosity.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Suzuki genuine coolant recommended.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (hypoid gear oil).
Carburetor Performance:
Can become finicky, require adjustment, or suffer from vapor lock in hot conditions due to location and design.
Rust And Corrosion:
Susceptible to rust, especially in the frame, rocker panels, floor pans, and tailgate, particularly in areas with salt use.
Clutch Wear:
Can wear out prematurely with heavy off-road use or aggressive driving.
Suspension Bushings:
Leaf spring bushings and shackle bushings can wear and require replacement, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Steering Play:
Steering box can develop play over time, requiring adjustment or replacement.
Starter Solenoid Failure:
Common failure point, often requires replacement of the solenoid or the entire starter.
Manufacturer:
Suzuki Motor Corporation - Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its compact and lightweight vehicles, motorcycles, and marine engines.
Samurai Lineage:
Direct descendant of the Suzuki Jimny (SJ series), first introduced in the late 1970s. The Samurai name was primarily used for export markets, particularly North America.
Key Changes 1990-1994:
Introduction of a longer wheelbase (from the original SJ30/SJ40) and wider track for improved stability. Engine upgrades in some markets (though the G13A remained prevalent for the US market during this period).
Discontinuation North America:
Discontinued in the North American market after 1995 due to a significant lawsuit related to rollover accidents, which severely impacted its reputation despite its off-road capabilities.
Production Locations:
Japan (primarily) and assembled in various locations globally.
Off Road Awards:
Consistently ranked highly by off-road enthusiasts and publications for its capabilities relative to its price and size.
Consumer Reports Reputation:
While known for reliability in its mechanical simplicity, its safety profile (particularly rollover risk) led to poor ratings from some consumer advocacy groups.
Emissions Standards:
Meets applicable emissions standards for the model years and markets sold, often via catalytic converters and engine management systems.
