Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical information essential for maintaining and repairing these robust vehicles, saving on dealership service costs.
Document Scope:
Covers both the Montero (SUV) and the related Pick-Up Truck models, offering unified repair information.
Diagnostic Focus:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting charts for a wide range of potential issues.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case (2WD/4WD)
Drivetrain Systems:
Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials
Suspension Systems:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf spring or multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, steering column
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some variants), parking brake, hydraulic system
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Chassis construction, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components and service
Emission Control Systems:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system (if applicable)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal/installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder service, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic flowcharts, on-board diagnostics (OBD-I) interpretation (if applicable)
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine rebuilding, transmission rebuilding, differential rebuilds
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring harness repair, component testing, short circuit diagnosis, component replacement
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and specifications.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, V6 (Gasoline)
Engine Displacement 4Cyl:
2.0L (1997cc)
Engine Displacement V6:
2.6L (2555cc) G54B, 3.0L (2972cc) 6G72 SOHC
Fuel Delivery System:
Carburetor (early models) and Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) (later models)
Horsepower 4Cyl:
Approx. 95-105 HP (varies by year and market)
Horsepower V6 2.6L:
Approx. 105-116 HP (varies by year and market)
Horsepower V6 3.0L:
Approx. 145-155 HP (varies by year and market)
Torque V6 3.0L:
Approx. 170-180 lb-ft (varies by year and market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Body Styles:
2-door SUV, 4-door SUV, 2-door Regular Cab Pick-Up, 4-door Extended Cab Pick-Up
Wheelbase Long Bed Pickup:
Approx. 116.1 inches (2950 mm)
Wheelbase Short Bed Pickup:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Wheelbase Montero:
Approx. 109.4 inches (2780 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by body style and drivetrain, generally ranging from 3,300 to 4,400 lbs.
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player. Optional: Power windows, power locks, power mirrors, air conditioning.
Driver Assistance Systems:
None in the modern sense. Focus is on mechanical capability and driver control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Pre-internet era vehicle)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For V6 engines, typically around 60,000 miles or 4-5 years. Crucial to follow manual's recommendation.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Generally every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated oil, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Common Wear Items:
U-joints, ball joints, tie rod ends, clutch wear (manual transmissions), radiator hoses, exhaust components.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Corrosion on grounds and connectors is common.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seals can develop leaks over time.
Transmission Issues:
Syncro wear in manual transmissions, potential for shifting issues in automatics if not maintained.
Mitsubishi Motors Motorsport:
Mitsubishi has a strong heritage in off-road racing, notably the Dakar Rally, which influenced the design and capability of the Montero and Pick-Up.
First Generation Montero:
The 1987-1989 models represent the first generation of the Mitsubishi Montero (known as Pajero in many markets), which established its reputation as a capable and durable SUV.
Pickup Truck Lineage:
The Mitsubishi Pick-Up Truck, often badged as Mighty Max or L200 in export markets, shares many mechanical components with the Montero, offering a robust and utilitarian platform.
Production Period:
1987-1989 (for the specific models covered by this manual)
