Segment:
Full-size minivan segment, a popular choice for families
Competitors 1997:
Chevrolet Venture, Ford Windstar, Toyota Sienna (introduced later in the year)
Convenience:
Spacious interior, flexible seating, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on some trims
Powertrain Options:
Known for reliable V6 engine options
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component diagnostics, timing, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine management
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission service, clutch, gearbox repair
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission service, diagnostics, overhaul (A604/41TE likely)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axles, differentials, CV joints
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (Torsion beam/multi-link dependent on configuration), steering system
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, windows, seating, HVAC system, power accessories
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair
Chassis And Frame:
Frame construction, body mounts, underbody components
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs, belts, hoses
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and complete rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair procedures, including component specifications and tolerances
Level:
Professional dealership-level service information
Engine Code 1:
3.0L V6 (2972cc) VIN 3 (6G72 SOHC)
Horsepower 1:
150 HP @ 5000 RPM (approximate)
Torque 1:
180 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (approximate)
Bore X Stroke 1:
3.50 in x 3.15 in (89.0 mm x 80.0 mm)
Compression Ratio 1:
8.9:1 (approximate)
Fuel System 1:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code 2:
3.3L V6 (3301cc) VIN G (EGA SOHC)
Horsepower 2:
158 HP @ 4700 RPM (approximate)
Torque 2:
190 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (approximate)
Fuel System 2:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Monitoring:
OBD-II compliant for emissions and diagnostics
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Model 1:
41TE (for 3.3L and 3.0L engines)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler Mopar specification)
Manual Transmission Availability:
Not commonly available or offered on 1997 models
AWD Availability:
Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system available
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Likely 4-star rating (based on era testing for similar vehicles)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Likely 4-star rating (based on era testing for similar vehicles)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all occupants, front seatbelt pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (under severe conditions), 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal conditions) - consult manual for specifics
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual)
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or SAE 10W-30
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water)
Transmission Slipping:
Common issue with early 4-speed automatics, often related to solenoids, torque converter clutch, or internal seals
Heater Core Leaks:
Can lead to coolant loss and interior fogging/wetness
Power Window Motors:
Can fail over time, requiring replacement
Alternator Failure:
Common wear item, can cause charging system issues
Cv Joint Boots:
Can tear, leading to grease loss and eventual joint failure
