🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Conquest

Year:

1988

Generation Name:

Third Generation (Mitsubishi Starion based)

Chassis Code:

G54B (Likely variant)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

A niche performance coupe in its era, the Dodge Conquest offered sporty styling and rear-wheel-drive dynamics, competing with models like the Toyota Celica Supra, Nissan 300ZX (Z31), and Mazda RX-7 (FC).

Competitive Analysis:

Positioned as a sportier, more affordable alternative to some European performance cars, it provided a blend of Japanese engineering (via Mitsubishi) with American market appeal.

Key Features:

Rear-wheel drive, optional turbocharged engines, distinctive styling, rear-wheel steering (on some models/years), independent suspension, and a driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Styles Covered

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (estimated 800-1200 based on typical factory manuals for this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle

Engine Control System:

Covers the electronic engine control (ECU) functions, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, and diagnostic procedures.

Fuel Injection:

Detailed information on fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and related components.

Emission System:

Information on emissions control devices, catalytic converter, and associated components for compliance.

Chassis Body:

Details on body construction, panels, frame, corrosion protection, and interior trim installation/removal.

Restraint System:

Information on seat belts, pre-tensioners (if applicable for the era), and airbag systems (if equipped, though unlikely for this model year without extensive research).

Steering:

Power steering system operation, hydraulic components, steering column, and wheel alignment checks.

Differential Drive:

Rear axle assembly, differential operation, and lubrication.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly, repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical component testing, fuel system servicing, brake adjustments, suspension alignment, and more.

Engine Rebuild:

Torque specifications, assembly sequences, clearance measurements for engine components.

Transmission Overhaul:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions.

Brake Service:

Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Use of multimeter, testing circuits, troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams.

Suspension Alignment:

Adjustment procedures for camber, caster, and toe settings, as well as component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings).

Periodic Lubrication:

Grease points, lubricant types, and service intervals for suspension and chassis components.

Heater Air Conditioner:

Servicing of AC compressor, refrigerant, HVAC controls, blower motor, and heater core.

Technical Depth:

Complete factory-level service and repair information suitable for both do-it-yourself enthusiasts and experienced mechanics, including detailed diagrams and hundreds of photos/illustrations.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting procedures for common vehicle issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS, viewable on smartphones and tablets.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online).

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages for workshop use

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) - Printable

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled (common for performance models)

Engine Code:

G63B (2.0L Turbo) and likely G54B (2.6L naturally aspirated or turbo variants).

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (turbocharged) or 2.6 Liters (naturally aspirated/turbocharged)

Engine Layout:

Inline-4, Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive

Horsepower:

Approx. 170-200 hp for turbocharged variants (specific output varies by market and tune)

Torque:

Approx. 200-220 lb-ft for turbocharged variants

Compression Ratio:

Refer to manual for specific engine variant (e.g., 8.0:1 to 8.5:1 for turbo models).

Fuel Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific ATF (e.g., Dexron III equivalent) or gear oil specifications for manual transmission.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions will be detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe

Wheelbase:

Approximately 98.2 inches (2495 mm)

Length:

Approximately 170.3 inches (4325 mm)

Width:

Approximately 68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Height:

Approximately 51.2 inches (1300 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,700 - 2,900 lbs (varies by trim and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA ratings not readily available for this specific year/model; typical for the era, focusing on passive restraint systems.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may be optional on higher trims.

Passive Features:

Seat belts, reinforced body structure, impact-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Typically a basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, manual climate controls, and analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by the era. Key features would be ABS (if equipped) and potentially fog lights.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for precise intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific mileage intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles for standard plugs, potentially longer for platinum plugs if available).

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30, 10W-40) and API service classification (e.g., SF or SG).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific OAT/HOAT or conventional type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (ensure compatibility with seals).

Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:

Refer to manual for capacity (typically 5-7 quarts).

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:

Refer to manual for capacity (typically 2-3 quarts of gear oil).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Refer to manual for capacity (typically 4-5 quarts).

Known Issues:

Turbocharger seals/lines, fuel injector issues, vacuum leaks, aging electrical connectors, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), potential for rust in certain climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, as part of Chrysler Corporation, historically offered a range of vehicles from economical sedans to performance cars and trucks. The Conquest represented their entry into the sporty coupe segment during the 1980s.

Model Evolution:

The Dodge Conquest was a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Starion. It was produced for the North American market from 1984 to 1989, undergoing styling and mechanical updates throughout its production run. The 1988 model year represents a late iteration of this generation.

Platform Basis:

Mitsubishi Starion (specifically the second generation styling with minor Dodge-specific trim variations).

Production Location:

Japan (manufactured by Mitsubishi for Chrysler)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1988 Dodge Conquest are not widely documented, the Mitsubishi Starion platform it was based on received positive reviews for its performance and styling in enthusiast publications of the time.