🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Suzuki

Model:

Hatch

Year:

1987-1988

Model Code:

Likely LM400 or similar series for this generation of Suzuki Alto/Hatch

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact hatchback, primarily targeted at economy-conscious buyers seeking fuel efficiency and urban maneuverability.

Competitors:

Competed with other small hatchbacks and city cars of the era such as the Daihatsu Cuore, Mitsubishi Minica, Honda Today, and various Kei car derivatives in certain markets.

Design:

Compact and practical design optimized for urban driving and ease of parking, often featuring a boxy but functional silhouette.

Engine Size:

Emphasized small displacement and fuel efficiency for cost-effective operation.

Target Audience:

First-time car buyers, students, small families, and those prioritizing low running costs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for all mechanical and electrical systems of the 1987-1988 Suzuki Hatch 800cc.

Pages:

Estimated 400-600 pages based on typical service manuals of this era.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

F8A 797cc 3-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine.

Fuel System:

Carburetor system (likely single-barrel), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control.

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition (CDI) or distributor ignition, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable for market), muffler, pipes.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (likely 4-speed or 5-speed), clutch system, shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD), drive shafts, CV joints, differential.

Suspension:

Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson struts), rear suspension (e.g., solid axle with leaf springs or coil springs), shock absorbers, springs, bushings.

Steering:

Manual steering rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, steering wheel.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake hydraulics, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications, parking brake.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire sizes, inflation pressures, bolt patterns.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, seals, trim, exterior lighting.

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, door panels, carpeting, headliner, interior lighting, HVAC controls.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting circuits, dashboard instruments, wiper system, horn.

HVAC System:

Heater core, blower motor, ventilation controls, refrigerant system (if A/C equipped).

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and tensioning.

Engine Overhaul:

Engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve adjustments.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission disassembly and reassembly, gear inspection.

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, brake rotor/drum inspection and replacement, brake fluid bleeding, caliper/wheel cylinder service.

Suspension Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, bushing replacement.

Steering Repair:

Steering rack service, tie rod adjustment, universal joint replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse/relay checks.

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, door/hood/tailgate adjustment, glass replacement, weatherstripping replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms and their probable causes.

Specifications Tolerances:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurements for engine components, chassis, and body.

Depth:

Covers from basic maintenance and routine service to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

F8A

Displacement:

797 cc (0.8 Liters)

Configuration:

Inline 3-cylinder, SOHC

Bore X Stroke:

Approximately 68.5 mm x 72.0 mm (typical for this engine).

Compression Ratio:

Typically around 9.0:1 to 9.5:1.

Horsepower:

Approx. 30-40 HP @ 5000-5500 RPM (depending on market and specific tuning).

Torque:

Approx. 45-55 Nm @ 3000-3500 RPM (depending on market and specific tuning).

Induction:

Single-barrel downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi or Mikuni).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating suitable for the era).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., 50/50 mixture with distilled water).

Oil Type:

API SF or SG service category, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 - 3.5 Liters (including oil filter).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission.

Type:

Automatic transmission (less common for this engine size).

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate diaphragm spring clutch.

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3300-3500 mm (highly variable by market and specific body style).

Width:

Approx. 1400-1500 mm.

Height:

Approx. 1350-1450 mm.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2150-2250 mm.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 600-700 kg.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Approx. 1100-1200 kg.

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 300-400 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Limited official crash test data available for this model in many markets due to its early production era and focus on economy. Likely to have performed to the standards of the time, which were less stringent than today.

Braking:

Front disc, rear drum brakes. ABS was not standard or widely available on models of this size and era.

Seatbelts:

Standard lap or three-point seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

Structure:

Reinforced safety cage construction, collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Speakers typically limited to front door locations.

Driver Aids:

Minimal to no electronic driver assistance systems. Focus on mechanical functionality.

Connectivity Features:

None typical for the era, limited to the vehicle's internal systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Filter:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 3-6 months.

Engine Oil:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 3-6 months.

Air Filter:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 km or 12 months.

Spark Plugs:

Every 20,000 - 30,000 km.

Fuel Filter:

Every 30,000 - 40,000 km.

Transmission Fluid:

Every 40,000 - 60,000 km.

Brake Fluid:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000 km.

Coolant:

Every 2-3 years or 40,000 km.

Timing Belt:

Not applicable, F8A engines typically use a timing chain.

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SF/SG.

Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Coolant:

50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.

Engine:

Potential for oil consumption due to worn piston rings, carburetor tuning issues leading to rough idling or poor performance, timing chain stretch over high mileage.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, potential for coolant hose degradation over time.

Electrical:

Fraying or corroded wiring harnesses, alternator output issues, starter solenoid problems, aging dashboard switchgear.

Body:

Rust formation in common areas like wheel arches, rocker panels, and door bottoms due to age and environmental exposure.

Suspension Steering:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings leading to loose steering and alignment issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Suzuki Motor Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer known for its compact cars, motorcycles, and ATVs.

Predecessors:

The Suzuki Hatch is closely related to the Suzuki Alto platform, which has a long history of development dating back to the 1970s.

Generations:

This model falls within the second or third generation of the Suzuki Alto (various internal designations), which saw significant updates in styling and powertrain.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other countries depending on market.

Production Years Covered:

1987-1988 model years are specifically covered, aligning with the relevant generation of the Suzuki Alto/Hatch.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Accolades:

While specific awards for the 'Hatch 800cc' are unlikely to be widely documented, the Suzuki Alto platform on which it is based was globally recognized for its economy, reliability, and value, often being a popular choice in developing markets and for budget-conscious consumers.