Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), often referred to as a 'coupe SUV' in its early iterations due to its sleeker styling compared to traditional SUVs.
Key Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Passport.
Drivetrain Options:
Available in 2WD (RWD) and 4WD configurations, featuring Mitsubishi's advanced 'Super Select' 4WD system on many models.
Body Style:
Offered as a 3-door (short wheelbase) and 5-door (long wheelbase) body style, providing versatility for different needs.
Target Demographic:
Families and individuals seeking a rugged, capable, and versatile SUV with off-road prowess and a degree of comfort.
Covered Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Geographic Coverage:
Primarily North American models, but applicable to many international variants.
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).
Manual Classification:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Primary Language:
English
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (including diagnosis, overhaul), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, driveshafts, axles, differentials (front and rear), Super Select 4WD system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front independent, rear multi-link), steering system, brake system (ABS included), wheels and tires.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, exterior lighting, interior lighting.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument panel, power accessories, body control modules, engine control modules (ECU).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning.
Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper overhauls, suspension component replacement, diagnostic troubleshooting of all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II) codes and interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, timing belt replacement, clutch replacement, accessory installations.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including voltage, resistance, and waveform testing for critical components and circuits.
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including specifications for clearances, torque values, and component tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component location and harness routing.
Searchability:
Fully searchable text within the PDF for quick access to specific topics.
Printability:
Printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics for clarity.
Digital Format Advantage:
No physical binding; accessible on multiple devices.
Original Format Similarity:
Mimics the comprehensive, detailed nature of original factory paper manuals.
Engine Code 1:
6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6)
Engine Displacement 1:
2972 cc (3.0 Liters)
Engine Configuration 1:
SOHC V6 (6-cylinder, Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 177-185 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm (depending on year and market).
Torque 1:
Approx. 208-214 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (depending on year and market).
Engine Code 2:
6G74 (3.5L SOHC V6)
Engine Displacement 2:
3497 cc (3.5 Liters)
Engine Configuration 2:
SOHC V6 (6-cylinder, Single Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 200-215 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (depending on year and market).
Torque 2:
Approx. 230-245 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (depending on year and market).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Timing Belt Type 3 0L:
Timing Belt (requiring periodic replacement, a critical maintenance item covered extensively in the manual).
Timing Belt Type 3 5L:
Timing Belt (requiring periodic replacement, a critical maintenance item covered extensively in the manual).
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., V4A51).
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., W5M33-2).
4Wd System:
Optional Super Select 4WD system, allowing on-the-fly shifting between 2WD High, 4WD High (Full-time, Part-time), and 4WD Low with center differential lock.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Diamond ATF SP-II M or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Wheelbase 3 Door:
Approx. 103.3 inches (2625 mm).
Wheelbase 5 Door:
Approx. 109.4 inches (2780 mm).
Overall Length 5 Door:
Approx. 180.7 inches (4590 mm).
Overall Width 5 Door:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1790 mm).
Overall Height 5 Door:
Approx. 66.5 inches (1690 mm).
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3900 - 4400 lbs (1769 - 2000 kg) depending on configuration.
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat 5 Door:
Approx. 38.3 cu ft (1084 liters).
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded 5 Door:
Approx. 78.2 cu ft (2215 liters).
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for rollover resistance in all configurations during this period. SUVs of this era generally had higher rollover potential than sedans.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models from introduction.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles (6,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically every 60,000 - 70,000 miles (96,000 - 112,000 km) or 5-7 years for the 6G72 and 6G74 engines. A critical and often overlooked maintenance item.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type (platinum/iridium recommended).
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SJ or higher (check manual for specific temperature range recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF.
Timing Belt Failure:
A critical issue. If the timing belt breaks on the V6 engines, severe internal engine damage (bent valves) can occur. Regular replacement is paramount.
Head Gaskets:
Some reports of head gasket leaks, particularly on higher mileage V6 engines.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Potential for torque converter shudder or transmission slippage if fluid is not changed regularly.
Suspension Components:
Wear and tear on ball joints, bushings, and tie rod ends due to the vehicle's weight and off-road capability.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, aging wiring harnesses, corrosion, and failing sensors can lead to intermittent electrical issues. The manual's detailed diagrams are invaluable here.
Mitsubishi SUV Legacy:
Built upon Mitsubishi's long history of producing capable off-road vehicles, including the Pajero (Montero in North America) line.
Introduction Year:
1996 (for the 1997 model year).
Platform:
Shared platform with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (first generation) and was related to the L200/Triton pickup truck.
Major Updates:
Minor styling refreshes and feature updates throughout its production run. The most significant change was the introduction of the 3.5L V6 engine and the facelift in 2001.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in Japan (and sometimes other global locations depending on market).
Production End Year:
2006 (as the 2006 model year, replaced by the second-generation Montero Sport in most markets).
Segment Popularity:
Was a popular choice in the mid-size SUV market for its capability and distinctive styling.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally received positive reviews for its off-road ability, comfortable ride (for an SUV), and powerful V6 engines. Criticisms often focused on fuel economy and interior materials.
Tool Utility:
Indispensable for owners and mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair these vehicles to factory specifications.
