Market Position:
Essential resource for owners and independent repair professionals seeking to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair the 1996-1997 Chrysler Grand Caravan. Positioned as a cost-saving tool for DIY repairs and informed decision-making with technicians.
Competitive Analysis:
Provides vehicle-specific, OEM-level technical data, differentiating it from generic repair guides. Offers the same information used by authorized dealerships.
Key Features:
Vehicle-specific repair procedures, comprehensive system coverage, clear step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications. Emphasizes cost savings and empowers users with knowledge.
Coverage Areas:
All major systems including General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Restraint System, Brake System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC).
Page Count:
Not specified, but described as 'full service and repair instruction' and 'complete and intact'.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, emission control, fuel system, clutch system, manual transaxle system, automatic transaxle system, driveshaft and axle, suspension system, steering system, restraint system, brake system, body (interior and exterior), body electrical system, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Procedures Included:
Step-by-step instructions for repair and troubleshooting, maintenance, diagnostics, component replacement, and system adjustments. Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and repair, mirroring dealership service department procedures.
Engine Mechanical Coverage
Engine Mechanical Coverage:
Includes detailed information on engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head servicing, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service, lubrication system, cooling system, and timing component replacement.
Engine Electrical Coverage
Engine Electrical Coverage:
Covers starter system, charging system, ignition system, fuel injection system components, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, and sensor descriptions.
Brake System Coverage:
Detailed procedures for front and rear brake service, including disc brake caliper service, rotor replacement, brake pad replacement, drum brake adjustment and service (if applicable), hydraulic system bleeding, and ABS system diagnostics.
Suspension Steering Coverage
Suspension Steering Coverage:
Includes front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, ball joints, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment specifications, power steering system repair, and steering gear diagnostics.
Body Electrical Coverage:
Comprehensive wiring schematics for all vehicle systems, including lighting, wipers, power windows, power locks, interior switches, instrument cluster, and fuse/relay identification.
Print Quality:
High resolution, allowing for clear viewing and printing of individual pages. Printable.
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF format, printable).
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format, user prints as needed).
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows and Mac, viewable on PCs, Macs, and many mobile devices/e-readers (e.g., Amazon Kindle).
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Primary Engine:
3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72 SOHC)
Optional Engine:
3.3L V6 (Chrysler EFA SOHC)
Optional Engine 2:
3.8L V6 (Chrysler EGH SOHC)
Performance 3 0L:
Approx. 144 hp @ 5000 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Performance 3 3L:
Approx. 158 hp @ 4400 rpm, 203 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Performance 3 8L:
Approx. 166 hp @ 4400 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on some engines.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., 41TE, 42LE)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (less common on Grand Caravan models)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled automatic transmissions with lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency.
Fluid Specification Automatic
Fluid Specification Automatic:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Exterior Length:
Approximately 176.1 inches (4473 mm)
Exterior Width:
Approximately 72.0 inches (1829 mm)
Exterior Height:
Approximately 68.2 inches (1732 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 111.8 inches (2840 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, generally around 3800-4200 lbs (1724-1905 kg)
Ratings:
NHTSA frontal impact ratings were generally 4-star for driver and front passenger for this generation.
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional.
Passive Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side-impact airbags were not common in this model year range.
Restraint System Coverage
Restraint System Coverage:
Covers airbags, seat belts, and associated systems.
Service Intervals Oil:
Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (4,800 to 12,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:
Intervals vary, often around 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 97,000 km) for filter and fluid change.
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Fluid Specifications Coolant:
Chrysler long-life antifreeze/coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Fluid Specifications Power Steering
Fluid Specifications Power Steering:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent specification Mopar power steering fluid).
Fluid Specifications Brake
Fluid Specifications Brake:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Spark Plug Type:
Varies by engine. For example, 3.3L and 3.8L often use Champion or NGK platinum plugs.
Air Filter Part Number:
Example: Fram CA3784, Wix 42473 (verify with vehicle VIN for exact fitment).
Known Issues Transmission
Known Issues Transmission:
Transmission solenoid failures, torque converter issues, and internal wear are common, particularly with higher mileage. The manual would detail diagnostic procedures for these.
Known Issues Head Gaskets
Known Issues Head Gaskets:
Some Chrysler V6 engines from this era were susceptible to head gasket issues; the manual would cover inspection and replacement procedures.
Known Issues Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can occur due to vehicle weight and typical use patterns. Manual provides specifications and procedures for replacement.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history in minivan production, pioneering the segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in the mid-1980s. The Grand Caravan is the Chrysler-branded variant.
Model Evolution:
The 1996-1997 models represent the second generation (NS) of the Chrysler minivan platform, introduced with significant styling and engineering updates over the first generation, including a more aerodynamic design and improved safety features.
Production:
Minivans of this era were primarily produced at Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
