Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe / Hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Toyota Celica GT-S/GT-Four, Mazda RX-7, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe
Distinctive Selling Points:
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD), potent turbocharged engines, strong aftermarket support, distinctive styling (especially 2G Eclipse/Talon), shared platform with Dodge/Plymouth models.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, expert guidance for maintaining and repairing these performance-oriented vehicles, crucial for owners who want to preserve or enhance their capabilities.
Model Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Vehicle Variants Covered:
Mitsubishi Eclipse, Eagle Talon, Plymouth Laser
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000+ (variable depending on specific edition and included supplements)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format for distribution)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine electrical, engine control systems (ECU/ECM), turbocharger systems (for turbo models)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch system, drive axles, CV joints, differentials, transfer case (AWD models)
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment, power steering system
Brakes:
Front brake system, rear brake system, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, HVAC controls, diagnostic connector (OBD-I)
Body Interior:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, seats, airbags (if applicable), climate control (HVAC), body hardware
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, tire rotation
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilds, steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), wiring harness testing, sensor testing, actuator testing
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for certain procedures (e.g., timing belt tensioner tool, ball joint separator)
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Naturally Aspirated Engine Options:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC (non-turbo), 2.4L 4G64 SOHC (later models)
Turbocharged Engine Options:
2.0L 4G63 DOHC Turbo (G63B/4G63T)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 135-150 hp (NA), 200-210 hp (Turbocharged), up to 250 hp (Evo variants - though Evo not typically covered by this specific manual title, it shares core components).
Torque Range:
Approx. 125-135 lb-ft (NA), 200-205 lb-ft (Turbocharged)
Fuel Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Fuel Requirement:
87 Octane (NA), 91+ Octane Recommended (Turbocharged)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for 4G63/4G63T engines to prevent catastrophic damage)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK Copper or Platinum (specific part numbers vary by year/engine)
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (F5M21/F5M31 series)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (W4A32 series)
All Wheel Drive Availability:
Available on higher trim levels (e.g., Eclipse GSX, Talon TSi AWD), featuring viscous coupling center differential and limited-slip rear differential.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
DIA QUEEN ATF SP-III (or equivalent)
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Mixed, with some models receiving decent ratings for the era, while others had notable weaknesses in side impact and rollover tests (specific data varies by year/trim).
Anti Lock Brakes:
Available as an option or standard on higher trims, particularly AWD models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from early 1990s, passenger airbag introduced later in the generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, some models may have pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette with optional CD player. Speaker upgrades and head unit replacements are popular aftermarket modifications.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, particularly higher trim levels.
Traction Control:
Available on some AWD models, usually integrated with the ABS system.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) system, requiring specific connectors and adapters for code reading and diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (using high-quality long-life coolant).
Engine Oil Specification:
10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG or higher (synthetic recommended for turbo models).
Engine Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi DIA QUEEN SUPER Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Early turbo models can suffer from turbo seal wear, cracked exhaust manifolds, and oil starvation if maintenance is neglected. Intercooler piping leaks are also common.
Engine Mechanical Issues:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 4G63T), worn piston rings, timing belt tensioner failure (if not replaced at intervals), and distributor issues are possible.
Suspension And Chassis:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and leaking struts/shocks are common due to age and use. Rust can be an issue in certain climates, particularly on subframes and rocker panels.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, failing window regulators, dim instrument cluster lights, and intermittent ECU issues can occur.
Mitsubishi Performance Legacy:
Mitsubishi has a strong motorsport heritage, particularly with the Lancer Evolution series, which shares much of its powertrain and chassis technology with the DSM platform.
Generation 1 Eclipse Laser Talon:
Launched in 1989 for the 1990 model year. Known for its sporty styling, front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) options, and the introduction of the 4G63T engine.
Generation 2 Eclipse Laser Talon:
Launched in 1994 for the 1995 model year. Featured a complete redesign with more aggressive styling, revised powertrains, and improved suspension. The Laser and Talon nameplates were phased out in North America after the second generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture between Mitsubishi and Chrysler).
