Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Fuel And Emissions:
Fuel injection system (MPI/EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP), catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, EGR system.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual transmission overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, linkage, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic control systems, fluid specifications, shift control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive axles, CV joints, propeller shaft (if applicable), differential (front/rear).
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link or independent), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack/gearbox, power steering pump, fluid, steering column, tie rods.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped).
Electrical System Charging:
Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, charging circuit diagnostics.
Electrical System Ignition:
Ignition system components (distributor, coil, spark plugs, wires), ignition timing, electronic ignition control.
Electrical System Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, turn signals, hazard lights, bulb specifications.
Electrical System Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, mirrors, audio system, horn, wipers, washer system, climate control system.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, structural components, rust prevention and repair.
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, heater core, climate control panel.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
General diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code retrieval (if applicable).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component locations.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance tasks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tune-up procedures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and bodywork.
Rebuilding:
Rebuilding procedures for major components like engines and transmissions, including specifications for machining and assembly.
Refurbishing:
Procedures for refurbishing components, often involving cleaning, inspection, and replacement of wear items.
Restoration:
Information beneficial for restoration projects, such as identifying original parts, correct finishes, and assembly sequences.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides to identify the root cause of problems, often linked to symptoms.
Adjustment And Calibration:
Procedures for adjusting various systems, such as idle speed, ignition timing, clutch, and parking brake.
Depth:
Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians, with sufficient clarity for advanced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years. Use a quality ethylene glycol coolant.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 30,000 miles for standard plugs; platinum or iridium plugs could extend this interval. Consult manual for specific plug type and gap.
Timing Belt Turbo:
Critical for the 4G63T engine. Recommended replacement interval around 60,000 miles. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Timing Belt Naturally Aspirated:
Recommended replacement interval around 60,000 miles for the 4G63 SOHC engine. Consult manual.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SG/CD classification, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Consult manual for precise viscosity and capacity (approx. 4.5 quarts for NA, slightly more for turbo).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific type (e.g., green color).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler power steering fluid or equivalent Dexron II/III ATF. Consult manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Always use fresh, sealed fluid.
Common Problems 1:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant leaks (hose deterioration, radiator issues), clutch wear (especially on manual transmissions), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints).
Common Problems 2:
Turbocharger issues on 'T' models (oil starvation, seal failure if not maintained), catalytic converter failure, minor electrical glitches (window regulators, door locks).
Common Problems 3:
Rust on body panels, especially wheel arches, rocker panels, and rear quarter panels. Timing belt maintenance is critical on turbo models.