Engine Mechanical:
Engine diagnosis, removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, evaporative emission control).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, fuel injection system (EFI), engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensors and actuators.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual transmission (NV3500, NP435) removal/installation, disassembly/assembly, adjustment, internal components, driveshafts.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (A518, A727) removal/installation, diagnosis, torque converter, hydraulic control system, valve body, seals, bands, clutch packs.
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive (4WD) system (New Process NP231 transfer case), front and rear axle assemblies, differential service, universal joints, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front suspension (solid axle with leaf springs), rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rod ends, steering knuckles, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, power steering pump, hoses, steering linkage.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, power brake booster, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, door locks, power mirrors, instrument cluster, gauge operation, battery, starter, alternator.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant cycle, controls, diagnosis.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, dashboard, roof panel (if applicable).
Wheel And Tire:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel alignment specifications, lug nut torque values.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacement (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit testing, fuel system diagnostics, engine performance issues, starting and charging problems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation. Includes torque specifications for all fasteners.
Diagnostics:
ECM diagnostic codes (OBD-I), sensor and actuator testing, circuit continuity checks, pressure tests (fuel, oil, coolant), compression tests.
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments (if applicable), ignition timing, throttle cable adjustment, parking brake adjustment, clutch pedal free play adjustment.
Installation:
Step-by-step guides for installing new or reconditioned components.
Safety Precautions:
Contains explicit notes, cautions, and warnings (DANGER, CAUTION, NOTE) to ensure safe operation and prevent damage or injury during service.
Fastener Replacement:
Guidance on using correct OEM fasteners and adhering to torque specifications for reliability.
Lubricant Specifications:
Specifies approved lubricants for various components to maximize vehicle life and performance.
Depth:
Comprehensive, bumper-to-bumper coverage suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Illustrations:
Detailed step-by-step procedures with pictorial diagrams, exploded views, drawings, and photos for clarity.
Special Tools:
Includes reference to specific special service tool numbers and illustrations of their usage.
Specifications:
Factory specifications, allowable limits, torque values, fluid capacities, wear limits, alignment settings, diagnostic data.
Precision Instruments:
Emphasizes the need for calibrated, precision instruments for accurate measurements.
Illustrations Detail:
Illustrations highlight fundamental principles and procedures, though exact vehicle appearance may vary.
Documentation:
Encourages keeping complete records of maintenance and repairs with dates and parts installed.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, consult manual for specifics based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher rated oil, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (verify with manual for specific temperature ranges and engine type).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Mopar coolant types.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (verify with manual for exact specification for A518/A727).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual for specific transmission type).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Potential issues include radiator leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (especially on V8s), wear in suspension and steering components (ball joints, tie rods), power steering pump leaks, and minor electrical gremlins. Transmission issues can arise from age and wear.
Oil Filter Example:
Ph50, WIX 51515, Fram PH373 (verify with manual or parts catalog for specific engine).