🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Montero

Year:

1983

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1983 Mitsubishi Montero (often referred to as Pajero outside North America) established Mitsubishi's presence in the burgeoning SUV market, positioned as a rugged, capable off-roader with practical utility.

Competitive Landscape:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, and early Jeep Cherokee models, offering a blend of utility, off-road prowess, and relative comfort for its class.

Key Features:

Body-on-frame construction, robust 4-wheel drive system (often with selectable low range), versatile seating configurations, and durable powertrains designed for challenging conditions.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service and Repair

Page Count:

600+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components.

Engine Fuel System:

Carburetor overhaul, fuel pump, fuel lines, and emission control systems.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan assembly service.

Engine Ignition System:

Distributor, spark plugs, ignition coil, and timing adjustments.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox disassembly, inspection, and repair.

Transmission Automatic:

ATF service, hydraulic control systems, and internal component repair.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Transfer case operation, front and rear axle service, driveshafts, and universal joints.

Suspension Front:

Independent suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, and steering linkage.

Suspension Rear:

Solid axle, leaf spring, and shock absorber servicing.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake operation, and bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Steering column, steering gear box, power steering pump, and tie rod ends.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, and accessories.

Body Interior:

Door mechanisms, seat adjustments, dashboard removal, and interior trim.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, glass replacement, and bumper service.

Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, body mounting.

Heating Ventilation Ac:

HVAC system components, refrigerant service (where applicable for the era), and blower motor.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, fluid level checks, filter replacements, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based fault finding, and common problem resolutions.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair.

Overhaul Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Adjustment Procedures:

Carburetor idle speed, ignition timing, brake adjustment, clutch free play.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution for clear text and diagrams, printable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Displacement:

Likely 2.6L 4G54 Sirius I4 (common for this era and model)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Horsepower:

Approx. 105-115 hp @ 4500-5000 rpm (variant dependent)

Torque:

Approx. 135-145 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm (variant dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (likely single or dual barrel carburetor)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating appropriate for the era (likely 87 AKI)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (points less system)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission (likely TorqueFlite variant)

Transfer Case:

2-speed transfer case with manual engagement for 4WD High and 4WD Low.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II (or equivalent for the era)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 92.4 inches (2347 mm) - Short Wheelbase, variants may differ

Length:

Approx. 155.7 inches (3955 mm) - Short Wheelbase, variants may differ

Width:

Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)

Height:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1790 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400-3700 lbs (1542-1678 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4500-5000 lbs (2041-2268 kg)

Tire Size:

Commonly 215/75R15 or similar all-terrain tires.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards were less stringent than modern vehicles. Focus on structural integrity of the body-on-frame design.

Active Safety Features:

Limited to robust braking system and 4WD for improved traction.

Passive Safety Features:

Body-on-frame construction, seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, likely with an optional cassette player. No digital displays or modern connectivity.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Primarily focused on mechanical capability.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on usage and oil type).

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24-36 months.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (depending on plug type).

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature recommendations)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 US quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Common Issues:

Rust/corrosion in body and frame, carburetor tuning issues, potential for worn suspension bushings, and issues with older electrical components.

Engine Wear:

High mileage engines may exhibit increased oil consumption or valve train noise.

4Wd System:

Engagement issues or worn components in the transfer case or front hubs can occur with age and use.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history of producing robust vehicles, including trucks and off-roaders, which informed the development of the Montero/Pajero.

First Generation Intro:

The first generation (L040 series) debuted in 1982 for the 1983 model year, establishing the template for this long-running nameplate.

Key Milestones:

This model marked Mitsubishi's entry into the global SUV market, quickly gaining a reputation for its off-road capability and durability.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

While specific awards for the 1983 model year are scarce, the Montero/Pajero lineage gained significant acclaim for its performance in off-road rallies and expeditions globally, particularly the Paris-Dakar Rally in later years.