Segment:
Performance Sedan / Sport Compact
Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Galant VR-4, particularly the E39A chassis generation, was a performance-oriented variant of the standard Galant, known for its advanced all-wheel-drive system and potent turbocharged engine, often competing with rally-bred homologation specials.
Competitors:
Subaru Legacy RS, Ford Sierra RS Cosworth, Nissan Skyline GT-R (though typically in a higher performance tier), Audi Quattro.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on sporty driving dynamics, turbocharged power, and all-wheel-drive traction.
Advanced AWD:
Sophisticated all-wheel-drive system (often referred to as 'Full-time 4WD' or 'Twin-ocyclic 4WD' depending on the specific variant and market) providing enhanced grip and handling.
Engine Technology:
The robust 4G63 engine, known for its durability and tunability, featured in legendary rally cars like the Lancer Evolution.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, lubrication, cooling, intake, exhaust, ignition, and emission control systems.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel lines, and associated sensors.
Transmission:
Automatic and manual transmission service, repair, overhaul, clutch system, gear selection, and torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, and propeller shaft.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and related hydraulic components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, and power distribution.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and climate controls.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis structure, corrosion protection, and body repair procedures.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management, and common fault finding.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for electrical and mechanical issues.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, and other critical measurements.
Depth:
Highly detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Name:
4G63 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typical)
Turbo Engine Name:
4G63T (Turbocharged)
Turbo Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1997 cc)
Turbo Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves, Turbocharged and Intercooled
Turbo Horsepower Approx:
195 - 240 hp (depending on market and specific model year)
Turbo Torque Approx:
203 - 230 lb-ft (depending on market and specific model year)
Turbo Boost Pressure:
9-12 psi (typical, may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for both variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor or distributorless ignition system (DIS) depending on specific year/market.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Detailed schedule in manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific type and interval (e.g., 30,000 miles for standard, potentially longer for platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G63 engine. Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (100,000 - 150,000 km). A non-negotiable maintenance item to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 5W-30) and API service classification. Synthetic oil recommended for turbocharged models.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change. Check manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific OEM recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF. Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity grade as specified (e.g., 75W-90). Refer to manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for specification.
Power Steering Fluid:
Power steering fluid or ATF Dexron II/III as specified. Refer to manual.
Turbo Failure:
Turbocharger seals can fail over time, leading to oil consumption or loss of boost. Proper maintenance, especially oil changes and allowing the turbo to spool down, is critical.
Engine Seals Gaskets:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seals are common leak points as the vehicle ages.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling. AWD components also require inspection.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Rust Corrosion:
Underbody rust, particularly in areas prone to road salt, can be a concern. Wheel wells, rocker panels, and suspension components are areas to inspect.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi, a major Japanese automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for innovation in engines and drivetrains.
Generation:
This manual covers the fourth generation (E31A, E32A, E33A, E34A, E35A, E38A, E39A) Galant, produced from 1987 to 1993. The VR-4 variant (E39A) was introduced in 1987.
Vr4 Significance:
The VR-4 designation signified Mitsubishi's high-performance offering, utilizing advanced technologies to achieve sporty performance and handling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan.
Production Years:
1988-1993 for this specific manual coverage.
