Segment:
Compact to mid-size pickup truck / Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)
Competitors:
Toyota Hilux/4Runner, Nissan Hardbody/Pathfinder, Isuzu Pickup/Rodeo, Ford Ranger/Bronco II.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust construction, reliable powertrains, capable off-road performance (especially 4x4 models), utilitarian design.
Target Audience:
Owners performing DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, restoration enthusiasts.
Engine Management:
Diagnosis, tune-up procedures, fuel injection, emissions control, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission repair, automatic transmission repair, clutch service, driveline components, propeller shafts, differential.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf spring), steering system diagnosis and repair, power steering.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake system, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped on later models).
Electrical Electronics:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body electrical components.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, frame repair, chassis components.
HVAC:
Diagnosis and repair of heating and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant recharge and component replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt replacement, spark plug replacement.
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical fault finding.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Body Repair:
Procedures for panel alignment, rust repair techniques, door and window seal replacement, interior trim removal/installation.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.
Rebuild Procedures:
Includes detailed instructions for engine overhaul, transmission rebuilding, and component restoration.
Diagnostics:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, and mechanical systems, often including trouble codes or diagnostic flowcharts where applicable.
Engine Codes Gasoline:
G63B (2.0L I4), 4G54 (2.6L I4), 6G72 (3.0L V6)
Engine Codes Diesel:
4D55 (2.3L I4 Diesel), 4D56 (2.5L I4 Turbo Diesel)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 85 HP (2.0L) to 140 HP (3.0L V6) and up to 100 HP for turbo diesel. Exact figures vary by year and specific engine.
Torque Range:
Approximately 110 lb-ft (2.0L) to 170 lb-ft (3.0L V6). Exact figures vary by year and specific engine.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early models, 4-cyl), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (later models, 4-cyl and V6), Diesel Injection (mechanical).
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) for 4-cyl engines, SOHC for 6G72 V6.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, Extended Cab (Chassis Cab also available).
Wheelbase:
Varies by configuration, typically around 108-116 inches for regular cab, longer for extended cab.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2700-3500 lbs, depending on configuration (2WD/4WD, engine, cab).
Crash Test Data:
Limited official NHTSA/IIHS data for this era and specific models, but generally considered robust for its class.
Active Safety:
Standard: Rear-wheel anti-lock braking system (RWAL) on some later models, Disc/Drum brake configuration.
Passive Safety:
Seat belts, reinforced safety cage construction.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Analog controls for climate and audio.
Adas Features:
None. This era of vehicles predates modern Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Connectivity Options:
None. No Bluetooth, USB, or integrated smartphone connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, and as per manual for manual transmissions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, typically 30,000-60,000 miles. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG/SH or higher. Viscosity grade typically 10W-30 or 10W-40. Refer to manual for specific recommendations based on temperature.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Mixture of 50/50 antifreeze and distilled water recommended.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron-II or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems Rust:
Rust/corrosion, particularly in the unibody structure, wheel wells, and rocker panels, especially in rust-belt regions.
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks on V6 engines, timing belt wear on 4-cylinder engines (if applicable to specific model year/engine), carburation issues on older models.
Common Problems Drivetrain:
Clutch wear, universal joint wear, differential pinion seal leaks, transfer case issues (especially 4WD components).
Common Problems Electrical:
Alternator failures, starter motor issues, wiring harness degradation, faulty wiper motors.
Oil Filter Example:
Examples: Fram PH50 or equivalent (verify for specific engine). Consult manual or parts catalog for exact OE numbers.
Mitsubishi Trucks:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing durable and capable pickup trucks globally, starting with the L200/Forte lineage.
Generation Details:
This manual covers the second generation of the Mitsubishi L200/Forte platform, sold in North America as the Montero Raider (SUV) and Mighty Max (Pickup Truck), and rebadged as the Dodge Ram 50 and Plymouth Arrow Truck.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors in Japan.
