Vehicle Type:
Full-size body-on-frame SUV
Market Segment:
Rugged, off-road capable SUV, competing with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer.
Key Competitors 1997 1998:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its robust chassis, available four-wheel drive systems (including Super Select 4WD-II), and good ground clearance.
Interior Versatility:
Spacious interior, available third-row seating (depending on configuration), and versatile cargo area.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, suspension, steering, brakes, body electrical, HVAC, body structure, interior, exterior body panels, chassis diagnostics.
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (MPI), ignition, emission control systems.
Transmission Driveline:
Automatic Transmission (AT) overhaul, Manual Transmission (MT) overhaul, transfer case operation and repair, drive shafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis Systems:
Front and rear suspension, power steering, hydraulic power brake system, anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Electrical Systems:
Starter, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power door locks, audio system, cruise control, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine management, ABS, and other systems, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major components and systems, including torque specifications.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures, belt and hose replacement.
Diagnostic Depth:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, oscilloscope interpretation for sensor signals, component testing specifications.
Rebuild Depth:
Complete engine rebuild specifications, transmission overhaul instructions, differential gear setup.
Electrical Diagrams:
Detailed wiring diagrams for every electrical circuit, including component locations and wire colors.
Engine Type:
3.0L V6 SOHC Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Bore X Stroke Mm:
86.1 x 86.0
Horsepower Hp Approx:
177 hp @ 5500 rpm (for US market specification)
Torque Lb-Ft Approx:
203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for US market specification)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified in manual, typically 87)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Pump Pressure Psi:
Approx. 30-40 psi (verify with manual)
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
4Wd System Option:
Super Select 4WD-II system (selectable 2WD, 4WD High, 4WD Low, with locking center differential) or Easy Select 4WD system.
Transfer Case Type:
Two-speed transfer case with center differential (on Super Select models).
Atf Type Required:
Mitsubishi DIA Queen ATF-SP II or equivalent Dexron II/III type fluid (verify with manual for specific model variant).
Wheelbase In:
109.4 (Short Wheelbase) / 118.1 (Long Wheelbase)
Length In Approx:
179.5 (SWB) / 188.2 (LWB)
Height In Approx:
67.1 (without roof rails)
Curb Weight Lbs Approx:
4000 - 4500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Lbs Approx:
5000 lbs (verify with specific model configuration and local regulations)
NHTSA Rollover Rating Approx:
3-star (typical for SUVs of this era, manual will detail specific test results if available)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Body Construction:
Reinforced body structure with crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD changer. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Cruise Control:
Available electronic cruise control system.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trim levels or as an option.
Navigation System:
Not available on these model years.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (typical for this era, refer to manual for exact recommendation)
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (verify with manual for climate and specific engine variant)
Engine Oil Capacity Qts:
Approx. 4.8 quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with organic acid technology - OAT), typically a green color (verify with manual).
Coolant Capacity Qts:
Approx. 8.0 quarts
Timing Belt Replacement Interval Miles:
60,000 miles (critical maintenance item for 6G72 engine)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mitsubishi Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron II/III ATF (verify with manual).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (verify with manual)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (verify with manual)
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, brake components (pads, rotors, calipers), exhaust system components, fuel injectors, starter motors, alternators, radiator.
Timing Belt Failure Risk:
Critical to adhere to timing belt replacement schedule due to interference engine design; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Occasional reports of rear main crankshaft seal oil leaks.
Transfer Case Actuator Issues:
Potential for issues with the electronic actuators for the 4WD system on some models.
Mitsubishi Motors Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to 1917 (though automotive production began later).
Montero Lineage:
The Montero is part of Mitsubishi's long-standing lineage of capable off-road vehicles, tracing roots back to the Mitsubishi Pajero (its global name).
Second Generation Facelift:
The 1997-1998 models represent the second generation of the Montero/Pajero, which was originally introduced in 1991 and received a significant facelift for the 1997 model year, including revised styling and updated features.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (e.g., Mizushima Plant).
Off Road Awards:
The Montero/Pajero has a strong reputation in off-road communities and has participated in and won various off-road racing events globally, including the Dakar Rally, contributing to its image of durability and capability.
Consumer Satisfaction Era:
Generally positive consumer satisfaction for its capability and durability, though specific reliability ratings would be found in contemporary automotive reviews.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for the respective model years. Manual details specific emission control system components.
