Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of all engine components, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing components, and lubrication system.
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and repair of engine performance issues, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control systems (including OBD-I diagnostics for specific models/years).
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines, and evaporative emissions system.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition control module, and timing adjustments.
Transmission Manual:
Complete overhaul, repair, and maintenance procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch system, gear selection, and gearbox components.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, and transmission control systems.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and transfer cases.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and associated components.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), including calipers, rotors, brake pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, relay locations, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrumentation, and accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, seats, dashboard, and structural components.
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, glass, mirrors, and associated trim.
Body Interior:
Seat removal/installation, carpet, headliner, door panels, dashboard assembly, and interior trim pieces.
Paint And Detailing:
Information on paint codes, touch-up procedures, and basic detailing advice.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common mechanical and electrical issues.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing various components, from spark plugs to engine parts and suspension elements.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Methods for diagnosing engine, transmission, brake, and electrical system problems, including the use of diagnostic tools.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection of wear limits, and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Comprehensive guides for rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed guidance on diagnosing and repairing electrical faults using wiring diagrams.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flushing, and ABS system bleeding.
Suspension Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for performing wheel alignment.
Depth Of Information:
Extensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Tools:
Mentions the use of specific diagnostic tools and procedures relevant to the era's technology.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for engine and drivetrain component clearances and wear tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical for 4G63 engines. Recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended for most conditions. Turbocharged models may benefit from synthetic oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter, depending on engine.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mitsubishi/Chrysler ATF SP-III (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Green color (traditional).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Turbo Issues:
Oil leaks from turbocharger seals, failing turbocharger bearings, cracked exhaust manifolds, and boost leaks on turbocharged models.
Common Engine Issues:
Timing belt failure (especially if not replaced on schedule), piston ring wear, head gasket issues, and valve stem seal wear leading to oil consumption.
Common Suspension Issues:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends leading to clunking noises and poor handling. Strut mounts can also fail.
Common Electrical Issues:
Corroded grounds, failing alternators, window motor failures, and issues with the power antenna. CDI/ECU failures can also occur.
Common Rust Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and around the sunroof (if equipped).