The 1992 Mitsubishi Montero (also known as Pajero in many markets) was a significant player in the burgeoning SUV market, offering a blend of off-road capability, ruggedness, and surprising comfort. It competed with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Jeep Cherokee.
Competitive Analysis
Strengths:
Renowned for its robust chassis (often with leaf springs in the rear on earlier models, evolving towards coil springs), capable 4WD system (Super Select or Easy Select), and reliable V6 engine. Its body-on-frame construction provided excellent durability.
Key Features
Off Road Features:
Available with a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system (often selectable), locking differentials (optional), and good ground clearance, making it a competent off-road vehicle.
Powertrain Options:
Primarily offered with the 3.0L V6 gasoline engine, known for its smoothness and adequate power for its class.
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component R&R.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic flowcharts, trouble code explanations (OBD-I for this era), component testing procedures, multimeter usage, wiring diagram interpretation.
Extensive technical depth, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and troubleshooting for most vehicle components.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and text. May be layered for clarity.
Print Quality
Printed Quality:
High-quality printing on durable paper for longevity in workshop environments. Clear, legible text and sharp diagrams.
Binding Type
Printed Binding:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop.
Paper Type
Printed Paper:
Heavyweight paper stock, resistant to grease and moisture.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
6G72 V6 SOHC MPI
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2972 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 76.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.7:1
Valve Train:
SOHC, 12 Valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Performance
Horsepower Net:
~145-155 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (depending on specific market and emissions calibration)
Torque Net:
~170-180 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (depending on specific market and emissions calibration)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher may be specified by Mitsubishi)
Cooling System
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.9 Quarts (7.5 Liters)
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 Quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 (check manual for specific temperature ranges)
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based, with electronic spark control)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (R5F51)
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (V4A51)
Features
4Wd System:
Mitsubishi 'Easy Select' or 'Super Select' 4WD System (depending on trim/market). Super Select offers 2WD, 4H, 4HLC (with center diff lock), and 4LLC (with center diff lock and low range).
Fluid Specs Manual
Gear Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 Liters (5.3 Pints)
Gear Oil Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Fluid Specs Automatic
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (9.0 Quarts) for full service
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III or equivalent ATF
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Short Wheelbase (SWB): 93.3 in (2370 mm); Long Wheelbase (LWB): 109.0 in (2770 mm)
Length:
SWB: ~164.0 in (4165 mm); LWB: ~178.0 in (4520 mm) (approximate, varies by body style)
Width:
~66.5 in (1690 mm)
Height:
~65.0 - 67.0 in (1650 - 1700 mm) (depending on roof type and suspension)
Weights
Curb Weight:
~3800 - 4500 lbs (1724 - 2041 kg) (highly variable by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5500-6000 lbs (2495-2722 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating 1992:
No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for this model year, as testing standards and reporting were different. However, it was generally considered a robust vehicle.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes; Rear: Drum Brakes (or optional Rear Disc Brakes on higher trims). ABS was often optional or standard on higher trims.
Antilock Brakes:
Optional or standard on select trims (ABS).
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts. Shoulder belts for front occupants.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was optional or standard on some higher trims.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Typically featured an AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional CD changer might be available on higher trims or aftermarket.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, depending on trim level.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims.
Connectivity
Vehicle Diagnostics:
Utilized an OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) system, typically accessed via a diagnostic connector for reading trouble codes.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (typical for this era, check manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (platinum plugs may extend this)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months; Manual: Every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron-II/III or specific power steering fluid (check manual)
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Aging engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Exhaust System:
Rust and corrosion can affect exhaust components over time, especially in humid or coastal climates.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings can cause clunks, poor handling, and premature tire wear.
4Wd Actuation:
Issues with the vacuum or electronic actuators for the 4WD system can occur, requiring diagnostic attention.
Radiator And Hoses:
Aging cooling system components (radiator, hoses) are prone to leaks and failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing rugged and capable vehicles, particularly in the off-road and utility segments, dating back to early truck and military vehicle production.
Model Evolution
Montero Gen2:
The 1992 model year falls within the second generation of the Montero/Pajero (1991-1999). This generation saw significant upgrades in styling, comfort, and powertrain compared to the first generation, while retaining its off-road prowess. It introduced more aerodynamic styling and a more refined interior.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Awards:
The Montero/Pajero platform has a strong reputation in off-road events and accolades, though specific awards for the 1992 model year might be less documented than modern vehicles.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Historical:
Historically, Mitsubishi SUVs from this era often received mixed reviews in consumer reports, with praise for off-road capability and durability but sometimes criticized for fuel economy or interior refinement compared to competitors.
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