Market Position:
A highly valuable resource for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair their Mitsubishi Mighty Max, L200, Triton, or Dodge Ram 50 pickup trucks and SUVs from the 1983-1998 model years. Offers significant cost savings compared to professional dealer services.
Competitive Analysis:
This manual provides a more comprehensive and detailed approach to repairs than generic online guides, offering step-by-step instructions and diagrams specific to these models. Its coverage of all variants and systems makes it superior to fragmented online resources.
Key Features:
Step-by-step instructions, clear diagrams and illustrations, comprehensive coverage of all systems, troubleshooting guidance, maintenance schedules, and diagnostic procedures.
Applicable Years:
1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Coverage Areas:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types covered within the specified year range.
Trim Level Coverage:
Covers all trim levels, from base models to more optioned versions, ensuring all factory specifications and components are addressed.
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital (PDF)
File Compatibility:
All PC & MAC Computers, Tablets, Smartphones
Required Software:
Adobe Reader (free download)
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands of pages (inherent to a complete workshop manual covering all systems and variants). Specific page count not provided, but comprehensive coverage implies significant volume.
Systems Covered:
Engine (including all variants), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (4WD), Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear, including ABS if applicable), Wheels & Tires, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation), Body & Frame, Interior Trim, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC), Emission Control Systems, Diagnostic Procedures.
Electrical System Details:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems including engine control, lighting, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, accessories, and optional features like power windows/locks.
Body And Frame Repair:
Includes procedures for collision repair, frame straightening, panel replacement, rust repair, door and window mechanisms, and sealing.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Troubleshooting Guides, Component Removal & Installation, Engine Overhaul & Rebuild, Transmission Service & Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension & Steering Adjustments, Electrical System Diagnostics & Repair, Body Panel Repair, HVAC System Servicing, Emission Control System Calibration, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams, Special Tools & Equipment, Torque Specifications, Component Testing.
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides are a key feature of this type of manual.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed steps for cylinder head removal and reassembly, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft service, camshaft timing, valve adjustment, and complete engine teardown and build.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using standard automotive diagnostic tools, plus any specialized Mitsubishi/Dodge factory tools required for specific procedures.
Primary Engine Options:
Common engines during this period included: 2.0L (G63B) SOHC I4, 2.4L (4G54) SOHC I4, 2.5L (4D55/4D56) SOHC Diesel I4, 2.6L (4G54) SOHC I4 (GEMA). Specific engine codes and availability varied by market and model year.
Performance Variations:
Horsepower and torque figures varied significantly across engine options and model years. Detailed specifications for each engine variant are contained within the manual.
Fuel System Types:
Carbureted (early models) and Fuel Injection (later models, including Multi-Point Fuel Injection - MPFI).
Engine Management Systems:
ECI Multi (Electronic Controlled Injection) for fuel-injected models, and distributor-based ignition systems for carbureted models.
Common Engine Codes:
G63B (2.0L), 4G54 (2.4L/2.6L), 4D55/4D56 (2.5L Diesel). Specific to model and market.
Standard Transmission:
Typically a 5-speed manual transmission.
Optional Transmission:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Transfer Case Options:
Part-time 4WD with manual or automatic front hub locking was common. Some models may have featured 2WD configurations.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmissions typically used GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Automatic transmissions used ATF DEXRON-II or equivalent. Transfer cases often used GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil.
Gear Ratio Information:
The manual will contain detailed gear ratios for all manual and automatic transmissions offered across the model range, crucial for diagnosis and repair.
Body Styles:
Single Cab, Extended Cab, Double Cab (Triton), Chassis Cab. Available in Short Bed, Long Bed configurations. SUV variants (e.g., Pajero/Montero sharing the platform) are not explicitly covered by the truck manual but share some mechanicals.
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 2,500 - 3,500 lbs (1,134 - 1,588 kg), varying significantly by configuration and drivetrain.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically in the range of 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (2,041 - 2,495 kg).
Towing Capacity:
Varies by configuration, typically in the range of 2,500 - 5,000 lbs (1,134 - 2,268 kg). Specific capacities will be detailed in the manual for each configuration.
Safety Ratings Era:
Safety standards and testing protocols from the 1980s and 1990s. Specific crash test data for these models from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS may be limited or unavailable for early years.
Active Safety Features:
Disc front brakes, drum rear brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on some later models.
Passive Safety Features:
Seat belts, energy-absorbing steering column (depending on year/market), reinforced cab structure.
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD player on later models. Analog gauges for instrumentation.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era. ABS was an optional feature on some higher trim levels and later model years. No advanced electronic driver aids like traction control or stability control were standard or widely available.
Connectivity Features:
None beyond basic audio system connectivity for accessories like external amplifiers.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for exact intervals for specific engines.
Timing Belt Interval:
For engines with a timing belt (e.g., 4G54), replacement is typically recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km). Diesel engines often use timing chains or belts with longer intervals. Exact specifications are critical and found in the manual.
Engine Oil Type Gasoline:
API SF/SG or later. Viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40. Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
API CD/CE or later. Viscosity typically 10W-30 or 15W-40. Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific color/type requirements (e.g., conventional green).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on year and system type. Check manual for specific requirements.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Specific ATF or power steering fluid. Consult manual for precise specification.
Common Issues:
Rust (especially on body panels, frame rails, and around wheel wells), potential for carburetor issues on older models, wear in suspension and steering components due to heavy use, aging electrical connections, exhaust manifold leaks, clutch wear, rear main seal leaks on some engine variants.
Diesel Engine Considerations:
Glow plug reliability, injection pump maintenance, potential for turbocharger issues on turbocharged variants (if equipped).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Typically around 4-5 quarts (3.8-4.7 liters) for gasoline engines and 5-6 quarts (4.7-5.7 liters) for diesel engines, including filter. Exact capacity varies by engine type.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 6-8 quarts (5.7-7.6 liters), depending on engine size and cooling system configuration.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi's entry into the global pickup truck market was solidified with the L200/Triton, known for its ruggedness and reliability. The Dodge Ram 50 was a rebadged Mitsubishi for the North American market, leveraging Mitsubishi's engineering.
Model Evolution:
The L200/Triton underwent significant design and engineering changes between its 7th (1978-1986) and 8th (1986-1996) generations, introducing more aerodynamic designs, improved interiors, and a wider array of engine and drivetrain options. The MJ series represents a facelift of the 8th generation.
Dodge Ram 50 Specifics:
The Dodge Ram 50, marketed in North America, was a rebadged Mitsubishi Mighty Max/L200. This manual is crucial for its maintenance and repair as it shares the vast majority of its components with its Mitsubishi counterparts.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan, with some assembly potentially occurring in other global locations depending on the market.
Production Years Global:
1978-2001 (for the 7th and 8th generations collectively, with the manual covering specific sub-series within this range).
