Segment:
Compact utility vehicle (SUV/CUV precursor)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops specializing in older Japanese vehicles
Competitors 1988:
Suzuki Samurai, Jeep Wrangler, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Ford Bronco II
Vehicle Focus:
Compact, rugged, off-road capable utility vehicle
Manual Value:
Essential for maintaining and repairing this specific and often niche vehicle
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive factory service and repair
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, maintenance, troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, specifications
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, engine management
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive (if applicable), differentials, axles, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, disc/drum brake overhaul, parking brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, instrumentation
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, sealing
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and service
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid flushes, tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and overhaul procedures for all major systems
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I) procedures, component testing, electrical circuit tracing
Depth:
In-depth, from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Code:
F5B (likely, common for Daihatsu F-series)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
1.3 Liters (1300cc)
Horsepower:
~65-70 HP (estimated for base engine)
Torque:
~90-95 Nm (estimated for base engine)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely single or dual barrel)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Length:
~3600 mm - 3700 mm (estimated for short wheelbase variant)
Width:
~1500 mm - 1550 mm (estimated)
Height:
~1700 mm - 1750 mm (estimated)
Curb Weight:
~950 kg - 1100 kg (estimated, depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
~1500 kg - 1600 kg (estimated)
Crash Test Data:
Limited public data available for this specific model/year from major safety organizations of the era
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering system (likely)
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelts (likely lap and shoulder belts)
Chassis Construction:
Body-on-frame construction for durability and off-road capability
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player (typical for the era)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional or not available on all trims
Power Steering:
Optional or standard depending on trim level
Connectivity Features:
None (pre-dating modern connectivity standards)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months (typical for the era)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 km or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG grade, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact specs)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, exhaust system corrosion, suspension bushings, radiator hoses, carburetor tuning
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, chassis frame, tailgate (common for vehicles of this age and type)
Daihatsu Legacy:
Long history of producing small, efficient, and robust vehicles, known for kei cars and compact utilities
F300 Lineage:
Part of Daihatsu's series of rugged utility vehicles, predating modern compact SUVs
Production Years Approx:
Late 1980s - Early 1990s (specific F300 variant)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
