🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

LeBaron

Year:

1987

Generation Designation:

J-Body (Second Generation)

Chassis Code:

J-Body

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to maintain or repair their 1987 Chrysler LeBaron.

Historical Context:

The 1987 Chrysler LeBaron was part of Chrysler's successful FWD K-car platform family, positioned as a stylish and affordable personal luxury coupe and convertible that competed with models from Ford and GM.

Advantage Over Alternatives:

Vehicle-specific and factory-authorized content, unlike generic repair guides. Digital format offers convenience, searchability, and print-on-demand functionality.

Manual Highlights:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage, step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications, all in a single, easy-to-use PDF.

PDF Benefits:

Eliminates physical wear and tear of paper manuals, allows for digital storage and backup, and provides instant access to information without the need for physical book management.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain And Chassis:

Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake

Steering And Cabin:

Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior

Electrical And Advanced:

Electrical, Multiplex/Can Communication

Body And Trim:

Detailed instructions for interior and exterior trim removal and installation, panel alignment, and accessory fitting.

Repair And Diagnostics:

Maintenance, Service, Diagnosis, Repair (A-Z), Step-by-step instructions, Troubleshooting

Engine Service:

Engine tune-up, timing belt/chain inspection and replacement, fuel system cleaning and diagnostics, emissions control system service, cooling system flush and repair, lubrication system service, ignition system troubleshooting and repair, starting and charging system diagnostics.

Transmission Service:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter changes, manual transmission clutch replacement, gearbox diagnostics and repair, drive axle and differential service.

Suspension And Steering Service:

Wheel alignment, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms, ball joints), steering gear and pump service, power steering system diagnosis.

Brake And Wheel Service:

Brake pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum resurfacing/replacement, brake caliper and wheel cylinder service, brake fluid replacement, parking brake adjustment, tire rotation and balancing, wheel bearing service.

Body And Electrical Service:

Door and lock mechanism repair, power window and seat adjustments, climate control system service (A/C recharge, heater core replacement), wiper and washer system repair, lighting system troubleshooting, instrument cluster diagnosis, horn system repair, glass replacement procedures.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic approach to diagnosing faults with step-by-step logic trees and symptom analysis.

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level diagnostic procedures, detailed repair instructions, component overhaul, system troubleshooting, and specifications. Equivalent to dealership technician-level information.

Wiring Schematics Detail:

Provides detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical components, aiding in troubleshooting and repair of the vehicle's electrical system.

Diagnostic Charts:

Includes diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common problems, allowing technicians to efficiently pinpoint faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

Searchability:

PDF format with searchable text allows for quick access to specific topics, keywords, and specifications.

Printability:

All pages printable, allowing for enlarged image printing.

Image Quality:

High-resolution illustrations and diagrams, suitable for enlargement, ensuring clarity of repair steps.

Binding Method:

Digital (PDF) - eliminates physical binding concerns.

Paper Characteristics:

N/A (Digital Format) - users print on demand, allowing choice of paper type.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely included 2.2L (K) and 2.5L (K) Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged versions of the Chrysler K engine (e.g., 2.2L Turbo I, 2.2L Turbo II). Specific engine codes would be detailed within the manual.

Engine Displacement Options:

2.2L (135 cu. in.) and 2.5L (153 cu. in.) inline-4 cylinder engines.

Horsepower Torque:

Varies by engine option. The 2.2L Turbo I typically produced around 140-150 hp, while Turbo II variants could exceed 170 hp. Naturally aspirated versions were in the 90-110 hp range. Exact figures are in the manual.

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (likely throttle-body or multi-point injection systems depending on engine variant).

Turbocharger Information:

If equipped with a turbocharger, the manual will detail turbocharger operation, diagnosis, and potential repair procedures, including wastegate and boost control.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely a 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., A520, A555) was available as standard on some models.

Optional Transmission:

A 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Torqueflite A413) was a common option.

Transmission Details:

Details on clutch operation, gear ratios, torque converter specifications, automatic transmission fluid (ATF) types and capacities, and shift linkage adjustments.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

The 1987 LeBaron was primarily offered as a coupe and convertible. A sedan/four-door version might have been available in certain markets or as a distinct sub-model (e.g., LeBaron GTS).

Seating Capacity:

Typically 4-5 passengers.

Trunk Volume:

Trunk volume specifications would be detailed for coupe and convertible variants, with the convertible generally having less space due to the top mechanism.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight varied by body style and options, typically ranging from approximately 2,500 to 3,000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA crash test ratings for the 1987 LeBaron are not readily available in a summarized format; the manual would provide structural and safety component information.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes were standard. Optional front and rear disc brakes or ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) might have been available on higher trims or later in the model year.

Restraint Systems:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts) were standard. The manual mentions 'Suppl Restraint System,' which may refer to early airbag systems if equipped on specific trims, though less common in 1987 for this model.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. Optional premium sound systems may have been available. The manual covers the 'Meter Audio/Visual' system.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was an available option and is detailed under 'Cruise Control' in the manual's coverage.

Multiplex Communication:

The manual lists 'Multiplex/Can Communication.' While CAN bus was nascent, multiplexing systems for electrical control were becoming more common, and the manual would detail their operation and diagnosis.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. The manual will provide precise intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

Likely 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG or higher, depending on ambient temperature. Refer to the manual for exact API service classification and viscosity grade.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. The manual will specify Mopar or equivalent coolant types.

Transmission Fluid Type:

For automatic transmissions: Mopar ATF+2 or equivalent. For manual transmissions: GL-4 gear oil.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) was often specified for Chrysler power steering systems of this era.

Common Wear Items:

Common issues for this era and platform can include turbocharger wear (if equipped), fuel injection system maintenance, aging rubber hoses and seals, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), and electrical connection corrosion. The manual addresses these.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Legacy:

Chrysler has a long history of producing personal luxury cars and coupes, with the LeBaron nameplate used across various models and generations, known for styling and comfort.

J Body Development:

The second-generation LeBaron (J-body) debuted for the 1987 model year, evolving from the K-car platform and featuring a more aerodynamic and distinct design, particularly the convertible which was a strong seller.

Convertible Specialty:

The convertible version of the LeBaron was particularly popular and was often seen as a distinct offering within the line-up, with detailed procedures for its operation and maintenance.

Manufacturing Plant:

Production typically occurred at Chrysler assembly plants in the United States, such as Sterling Heights, Michigan.