🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler / Dodge / Mitsubishi

Model:

Conquest / Starion

Year:

1988

Model Code:

Chrysler/Dodge Conquest (chassis code derived from Mitsubishi A18xA)

Engine Code Primary:

G54B

Platform Name:

Mitsubishi Starion platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1988 Chrysler/Dodge Conquest, a badge-engineered version of the Mitsubishi Starion, was positioned as an affordable, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe with turbocharged performance.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and Ford Mustang in its segment, offering a unique Japanese-derived performance option with American market branding.

Key Features:

Turbocharged 2.6L 4-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, distinctive widebody styling (particularly on later models), sophisticated independent suspension, and a driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical and electrical systems of the 1988 Chrysler/Dodge Conquest and Mitsubishi Starion.

Page Count:

Not specified in product description, but implied to be extensive (hundreds of photos and illustrations).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel & Emissions, Engine Lubrication & Cooling, Engine Ignition, Engine Electrical, Drivetrain (Transmission, Clutch, Driveshaft, Axles), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear, Parking), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Charging, Starting, Lighting, Instruments, Power Accessories), Climate Control (HVAC), Body & Chassis, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Procedures, Torque Specifications.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, adjustments, specifications for all major systems. Includes step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable pages in PDF format.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.6L (2555cc) Sirius-Dash-4G54 SOHC Turbocharged Inline-4

Horsepower:

Approximately 170-188 hp @ 5000 rpm (depending on specific market and intercooler setup)

Torque:

Approximately 220-240 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (depending on specific market and intercooler setup)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with turbocharger and intercooler.

Engine Codes:

G54B

Bore X Stroke:

91.1 mm x 9.9 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (Turbocharged)

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Features:

Rear-wheel drive layout. Manual transmission often featured a dogleg first gear (typically for racing homologation purposes).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm) (standard body) / 70.3 inches (1786 mm) (widebody)

Height:

Approximately 51.0 inches (1295 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 97.2 inches (2469 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

N/A (No standardized crash test data readily available for this model year and specific market homologation.

Active Features:

Front disc brakes, Rear disc brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available on some trims/options.

Passive Features:

Seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems were available.

Driver Assistance:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an option. No other significant electronic driver-assistance systems from modern standards.

Connectivity:

None by modern standards; analog systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific interval, generally around 30,000 miles for standard plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial component; interval typically around 60,000 miles or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (consult manual for precise viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II (or equivalent).

Known Issues:

Turbocharger longevity can be an issue if not properly maintained. Potential for head gasket leaks due to high heat. Electrical gremlins are common in older vehicles. Susceptible to rust in certain climates. Intercooler plumbing can degrade over time.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Fram PH8A, Wix 51515 (verify with specific application).

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Fram CA323, Wix 42137 (verify with specific application).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Chrysler and Dodge historically offered a range of performance vehicles. The Conquest represented a foray into importing and re-badging Japanese sports cars to broaden their product line.

Model Evolution:

The Mitsubishi Starion (and its Chrysler/Dodge Conquest counterpart) was produced from 1982 to 1989. Key evolutions included the introduction of the widebody variants, more powerful intercooled turbocharging, and updated styling.

Production Years:

1982-1989 (Mitsubishi Starion/Chrysler-Dodge Conquest)

Production Location:

Japan (manufactured by Mitsubishi Motors)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the Conquest/Starion itself may not have received specific widely publicized awards, it was recognized by enthusiasts for its performance credentials and distinctive styling in its era.