🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

1998

Platform Code:

NS (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Minivan

Positioning:

A highly popular and versatile family vehicle known for its practicality, spacious interior, and adaptable seating configurations. Competed directly with vehicles like the Chevrolet Venture/Luminary, Ford Windstar, and the Japanese offerings such as the Toyota Previa and Honda Odyssey.

Strengths:

Excellent interior packaging, accessible pricing, a wide range of engine options, and readily available parts support. The 'Caravan' nameplate had strong brand recognition in the minivan segment.

Versatility:

Configurable seating (Stow 'n Go was introduced later, but early models offered removable rear seats), ample cargo space, sliding rear doors for easy access.

Powertrain Options:

Multiple engine choices catering to different performance and economy needs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

International markets utilizing North American specifications

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print / Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, powertrain control modules (PCM), torque converter clutch (TCC), transmission (automatic).

Chassis:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system (front discs, rear drums/discs), Antilock Braking System (ABS), wheels, tires, chassis lubrication.

Electrical:

Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors, seats), horn, wipers, HVAC blower motor, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), fuse box diagrams, relay locations, wiring diagrams for all major systems.

Body:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, glass, body seals, frame (unibody), seat mounting, panel alignment.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, lubrication points.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine overhaul (short block, long block, cylinder heads), transmission overhaul (e.g., A604/41TE), brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rod ends), starter motor and alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement, HVAC component replacement (compressor, evaporator), body panel repair and replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, vacuum testing, wiring harness troubleshooting.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic DIY maintenance to complex internal component rebuilds and advanced diagnostic procedures. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams.

Print Quality:

High-quality scans or original print reproductions with clear text and legible diagrams.

Binding:

Professional binding (e.g., comb, spiral, or perfect bound) suitable for workshop use.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EDZ

Engine Type:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (16-valve)

Displacement:

2429 cc (148 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 101.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Code:

3.0L SOHC V6 (24-valve)

Engine Type:

Mitsubishi 6G72

Displacement:

2972 cc (181 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

91.1 mm x 76.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Horsepower:

180 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

Engine Code:

3.3L SOHC V6 (12-valve) - *Later models might have this, but 3.0L was prevalent*

Engine Type:

Chrysler EDB

Displacement:

3301 cc (201 cubic inches)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Octane Rating:

87 octane minimum recommended

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0-10.5 quarts (7.6-9.9 liters) depending on engine

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Code:

A604 / 41TE (for V6 engines)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transaxle (for base 2.4L engine in some configurations)

Transmission Code:

A670 / 31TH

Electronic Control:

Electronically controlled with overdrive (4-speed models)

Torque Converter Clutch:

Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) for improved fuel efficiency

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-8.0 quarts (6.6-7.6 liters) for 4-speed, 5.5-6.5 quarts (5.2-6.2 liters) for 3-speed (dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.1 inches (4498 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.9 inches (1826 mm)

Height:

Approx. 68.4 inches (1737 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 112.1 inches (2847 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 61.5 inches (1562 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 61.8 inches (1570 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (1588-1724 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4850-5000 lbs (2199-2268 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Front Seats:

Approx. 146 cubic feet (4134 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:

Approx. 85 cubic feet (2407 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (1998 Model Year Assessment)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (1998 Model Year Assessment)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts for all seating positions

Child Safety:

Rear door child safety locks, LATCH child seat anchor points (introduced on some later models, check specific VIN)

ABS:

Optional Antilock Braking System (ABS) available on select trims and drivetrains.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available or standard on 1998 models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound systems were available.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with standard A/C. Optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Rear Defroster:

Standard feature.

OBD Standard:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant for emissions and engine diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles (48,000 to 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium plugs offer longer life).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or as recommended based on driving habits.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 for most conditions. Check manual for specific engine recommendations.

Engine Oil API Service Category:

API SG, SH, or SJ

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4 (check specific recommendations).

Engine Misfires:

Common with ignition system components like spark plugs, wires, and coil packs, especially on the V6 engines. The 2.4L can experience issues with the exhaust manifold cracking.

Transmission Slipping:

The A604/41TE transmission can develop issues with solenoids, torque converter clutch, or internal seals, leading to slipping or harsh shifts. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

HVAC System:

Blend door actuator failures, blower motor resistor issues, and refrigerant leaks are not uncommon.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear out, leading to steering looseness and premature tire wear.

Body Rust:

Rust can affect wheel wells, rocker panels, and the underside of the vehicle, especially in areas with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, FCA, and now Stellantis), has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles, with the minivan segment being a significant area of success.

Generation:

This 1998 model falls into the second generation (NS) of the Dodge Caravan, which ran from 1996 to 2000. This generation saw significant styling updates and improvements over its predecessor.

Key Changes For 98:

Minor updates to features and packaging. The 3.3L V6 became more widely available. Front end redesign and interior refinements were part of the NS generation's introduction in 1996.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and the Fenton Automotive Plant in Fenton, Missouri, USA.

Model Year Production:

1998 model year typically ran from late 1997 through most of 1998.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Launch Reception:

The NS platform (including the 1998 Caravan) was generally well-received for its updated styling and improved packaging, continuing the Caravan's dominance in the minivan segment.

Industry Perception:

Consistently ranked among the best-selling minivans and lauded for its practicality and family-friendly features.