Historical Context:
The Dodge Stealth was a rebadged Mitsubishi 3000GT (GTO) for the North American market, offering a premium sports car experience with advanced technology.
Direct Competitors:
Chevrolet Corvette, Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mazda RX-7 (FD), Porsche 968.
Powertrain Options:
Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) with active aerodynamics and four-wheel steering (in the Twin Turbo model).
Design Philosophy:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling with a focus on performance and advanced technology for its era.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs associated with dealership or independent shop labor, and ensuring proper care of a sophisticated vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Full engine overhaul, timing belt replacement, internal component inspection and repair, cylinder head service, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and connecting rod service.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (ECI), starting and charging system, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing and replacement, wiring diagrams for engine management.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch service, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, gear selection mechanism, internal component inspection, fluid changes, driveshaft and CV joint service.
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission fluid and filter service, torque converter inspection, valve body diagnostics, solenoid testing, shift control systems, external seals and gaskets.
Drivetrain:
All-wheel-drive system (viscous coupling unit, center differential), front and rear differential service, transfer case (if applicable), axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings), alignment specifications, spring replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack and pinion service, steering column components, wheel alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS system diagnostics, parking brake adjustment and repair.
Body And Frame:
Body panel alignment, door and window regulation, hinge and latch service, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable), underbody corrosion protection, chassis component inspection.
Electrical System:
Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, door locks, mirrors, horn, wiper and washer system, fuse and relay identification.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:
A/C system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor service, evaporator and condenser service, blower motor replacement, heater core replacement, climate control panel operation.
Interior Trim:
Dashboard removal and installation, seat removal, carpet replacement, headliner service, trim panel removal and reinstallation.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid changes, brake fluid changes, differential fluid changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) retrieval and interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system fault finding, engine performance issues.
Repair And Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system overhaul, steering system repair, A/C system component replacement.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I) procedures, sensor testing protocols, actuator testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, leak-down testing.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor components.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, diagnostic data, alignment settings, fluid capacities and types.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for severe duty intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item for interference engine).
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity and temperature ranges).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Differential Fluid Type AWD:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (front and rear differentials).
Timing Belt Failure:
Due to its interference design, a broken timing belt will cause catastrophic engine damage. Strict adherence to replacement intervals is crucial.
Active Aero Failure:
The active aero components (front lip, rear wing) can fail due to motor burnout or linkage issues. Repair often involves replacement or modification.
Power Steering Leaks:
Hoses and seals can degrade over time, leading to leaks in the power steering system.
Clutch Wear:
As with any performance car, clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can deteriorate, leading to a less precise feel and potential noise.