Segment:
Mid-size minivan segment
Key Competitors 1997:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Lumina APV, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Previa
Voyager Advantage:
Spacious interior, versatile seating options, strong V6 engine performance
Vehicle Purpose:
Family hauling, cargo transport, versatile utility vehicle
Design Philosophy:
Front-wheel drive platform offering car-like driving dynamics and passenger comfort
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, diagnostics, and component testing for all engine variants
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, starting, charging, ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid service
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS diagnostics and repair
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorber replacement
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rod replacement
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation, refrigerant service
Electrical Body:
Lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, interior/exterior lighting, wiper system
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim removal, frame alignment
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing major components
Diagnostic Charts:
Fault code lookup and troubleshooting flowcharts
Rebuilding Procedures:
Instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Depth:
Professional-level repair, including full engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork
Digital Format Availability:
N/A (This is a printed manual)
Print Quality:
High-quality printing on durable paper, designed for workshop use
Binding:
Sturdy binding (likely perfect bound or comb bound) to withstand frequent use
Paper Type:
Durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and wear
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Codes:
A604 (FWD 4-speed automatic) for 3.0L and 3.3L; A670 (FWD 4-speed automatic) for 3.8L
Optional Transmission:
N/A (4-speed automatic was standard across most variants)
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Module (ECM) controlled shifts
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (or Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 7176)
Length Standard:
179.7 inches
Length Long Wheelbase:
189.4 inches (Grand Voyager)
Wheelbase Standard:
111.8 inches
Wheelbase Long:
119.3 inches (Grand Voyager)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 37.0 cu ft (standard wheelbase), 52.0 cu ft (long wheelbase)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 85.0 cu ft (standard wheelbase), 118.0 cu ft (long wheelbase)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 149.0 cu ft (standard wheelbase), 179.0 cu ft (long wheelbase)
Curb Weight Est Min:
3,800 lbs
Curb Weight Est Max:
4,200 lbs
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating:
Not rated or deemed acceptable for the era.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating:
Not rated or deemed acceptable for the era.
IIHS Offset Frontal Rating:
Marginal (for the generation, specific 1997 may vary slightly)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks, LATCH system not standard
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Display:
Basic analog gauge cluster, optional digital climate control display.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Not commonly available on this model year.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to optional power accessories (locks, windows, mirrors). No integrated Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as indicated by fluid condition.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles for conventional spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on climate, check manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (3.0L) / 5.0 quarts (3.3L/3.8L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Chrysler / Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol-based)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III)
Transmission Hard Shifting:
Common issue with the 4-speed automatic (A604/A670), often related to solenoid pack failure or fluid contamination. Manual addresses diagnostics.
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks:
Potential for coolant leaks from the intake manifold gaskets on certain V6 engines. Manual details replacement procedures.
Power Window Motors:
Can experience failure; manual provides removal and installation guidance.
Rear Climate Control Issues:
HVAC system issues, especially in rear seating areas. Manual covers HVAC system diagnostics.
Ignition Switch Failure:
Electrical system issues can sometimes stem from a faulty ignition switch. Manual provides testing and replacement.
Chrysler Minivan Legacy:
Chrysler is credited with pioneering the modern minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in 1984.
Generation Introduction:
The NS platform Voyager was introduced for the 1996 model year, representing the second generation of Chrysler's minivans.
Key Updates 1997:
Minor trim and feature adjustments, possibly some powertrain refinements for reliability.
Manufacturing Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Production Years Ns Platform:
1996-2000
Car And Driver 10Best:
Chrysler minivans (including Voyager variants) were frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in earlier generations, establishing a strong reputation.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Mixed ratings for reliability during this era, particularly concerning powertrain components. The manual is essential for addressing potential issues.
Certification Standard:
Factory Service Manuals are recognized industry standards for vehicle repair and maintenance.