Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, professional mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair of the Lancer Evolution I.
Reputation:
The Evo I established Mitsubishi's rally heritage, known for its performance and advanced technology for its era.
Key Competitors:
Subaru Impreza WRX (later generations), Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Lancia Delta Integrale.
Performance Focus:
Homologation special for World Rally Championship (WRC), emphasizing AWD, turbocharged engine, and stiff chassis.
Technological Advancements:
First generation of the Evo series, introducing key performance technologies that would be refined in subsequent models.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system (MPI), turbocharger system (TD05HR-16G).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnosis and wiring diagrams, sensors (MAP, TPS, knock, O2, etc.).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Type-R), clutch system, transfer case, viscous coupling center differential, drivetrain components (driveshafts, CV joints).
Suspension:
Front strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, anti-roll bars, power steering system.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs (300mm), rear solid discs (284mm), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers.
Electrical System:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, audio system, horn, battery, fuse box and relay locations, wiring diagrams for all major systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body structural components, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seat adjustments, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, refrigerant charging, component replacement.
General Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant checks, belt inspections and adjustments.
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, timing belt replacement, turbocharger rebuild, fuel injector service.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid change, clutch replacement, differential service, transfer case maintenance.
Brake Service:
Brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid flush, ABS system bleeding and repair.
Suspension And Steering:
Shock absorber replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, wheel alignment procedures, power steering pump and rack repair.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, wiring harness repair, component testing, ECU flashing (if applicable).
Bodywork And Interior:
Panel replacement, door mechanism repair, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures, wiring diagrams for diagnosis.
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specialized systems like AYC (Active Yaw Control) if applicable to this specific manual version (though less common on Evo I).
Specification Accuracy:
Precise torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, and timing settings.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe use may require shorter intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km or 12 months.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 40,000 km or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 km or 36 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 100,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Engine Wear:
Potential for ring land failure in high-mileage or poorly maintained 4G63 engines due to stress. Regular oil changes are critical.
Turbocharger Reliability:
The TD05HR turbo is generally robust, but requires proper warm-up and cool-down procedures. Oil leaks or bearing wear can occur with age.
Suspension Components:
Wear on bushings, ball joints, and control arms is common due to performance driving and age.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in older vehicles, especially in areas exposed to salt. Areas to inspect include wheel arches, rocker panels, and suspension components.