🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

L200 Truck

Platform Codename:

K50, K60, K70 series (for the specified years)

Generation:

Third Generation (1996-2005, with variations)

Model Code Examples:

K74T (4WD, Double Cab), K75T (4WD, Single Cab), K64T (2WD, Double Cab), K65T (2WD, Single Cab) - Note: Specific codes depend on drivetrain and body style.

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact to mid-size pickup truck, popular in utility, commercial, and recreational applications.

Key Selling Points:

Robust construction, capable 4WD systems, reliability, and value for money.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Hilux (different generations), Nissan D22 Navara/Frontier, Ford Ranger (specific markets), Isuzu D-Max (specific markets).

Body Styles:

Single Cab, Extended/Club Cab, Double Cab

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (RWD), 4WD

Target Audience:

Tradespeople, farmers, off-road enthusiasts, individuals seeking a versatile utility vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Estimated Page Count:

~1000+ pages (comprehensive workshop manual)

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (typically PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and tuning for all applicable engine variants, including timing belt/chain replacement, fuel injection systems, lubrication, cooling, and emission controls.

Transmission:

Complete coverage for manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch, gearshift mechanisms, torque converter (for automatics), internal component repair, fluid changes, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, transfer case operation and repair, driveshafts, CV joints, axle shafts, hub units, and 4WD system engagement mechanisms.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic components, ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake, brake fluid replacement and bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (e.g., independent front suspension, leaf springs rear), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, and steering system integration.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, tie rod ends, and alignment procedures.

Electrical:

Full wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, horn, wipers, and power accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Frame inspection and repair, body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and chassis lubrication.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service, refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor, and climate control unit diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Routine scheduled maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, and lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides and electrical diagnostic flowcharts.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.

Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds, including component specifications and assembly sequences.

Installation:

Procedures for installing and removing major components and accessories.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic user-level maintenance to advanced engine, transmission, and electrical system diagnostics and repair, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information

Print Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and clear text for easy reading and printing

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes And Types:

Common engines for this period include: 4G63 (2.0L SOHC/DOHC I4 Petrol), 4G64 (2.4L SOHC I4 Petrol), 4D56 (2.5L SOHC I4 Diesel/Turbo Diesel), 4M40 (2.8L SOHC I4 Turbo Diesel). Specific availability varies by market.

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 90 hp (naturally aspirated diesel) to 135 hp (turbo diesel/petrol) depending on engine and market.

Torque Range:

Approx. 170 Nm to 260 Nm depending on engine and market.

Petrol:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel:

Indirect Injection (IDI) or Direct Injection (DI) with Bosch VE or similar rotary/inline pumps; Turbocharged variants feature intercoolers.

Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with a radiator and fan.

Oil Type And Capacity:

Varies by engine. Example: 4D56 Turbo Diesel typically requires API CG-4 or similar 10W-30/15W-40, with a capacity around 6.5-7.0 liters with filter. Always refer to the specific engine section in the manual for precise specifications.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Types:

5-speed Manual Transmission (common), 4-speed Automatic Transmission (optional on some variants).

Transmission Types:

4-speed Automatic Transmission.

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with manual or electronic engagement (Super Select 4WD optional on higher trims for some markets).

Manual Gearbox Oil:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity varies, typically around 2.5-3.0 liters for main gearbox and 1.0-1.5 liters for transfer case.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon. Capacity around 3.0-4.0 liters for a drain and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length Wheelbase Variations:

Wheelbase and overall length varied significantly based on cabin type (Single, Club, Double Cab) and bed length. Typically, wheelbases ranged from ~2700mm to ~3200mm.

Ground Clearance:

Typically around 200-220 mm depending on 2WD/4WD configuration and suspension.

Bed Dimensions:

Varies by configuration; long beds offered on some single and double cab variants.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1500 kg to 1900 kg depending on configuration (engine, 2WD/4WD, cab type).

Towing Capacity:

Typically rated between 2500 kg and 3500 kg (braked), subject to local regulations and specific model variant.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this generation vary by market and year; early models typically had fewer advanced safety features. Supplemental information may be in the manual regarding structural integrity.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional or standard feature on higher trims, especially in later years and specific markets.

Traction Control:

Traction control systems were not common on most models of this era.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags were standard on many models from the mid-90s onwards. Some variants may have side airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for front occupants, two-point or three-point for rear depending on cab configuration.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or single-CD player was common. Higher trims might have better speaker systems or optional CD changers.

Navigation:

GPS navigation systems were rare to non-existent on most models of this era.

Cruise Control:

Often an option on higher trim levels, especially for models equipped with automatic transmissions.

Auxiliary Inputs:

No factory auxiliary inputs (e.g., USB, Bluetooth) were standard; aftermarket solutions were common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 km or as needed based on dusty conditions.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Diesel: 20,000-40,000 km. Petrol: less frequent, often checked. Crucial for diesel longevity.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For engines with timing belts (e.g., 4G63/4G64 petrol), typically every 80,000-100,000 km or 5-7 years. Crucial to follow manual.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific type and capacity (approx. 7-9 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on model. Capacity approx. 1 liter.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific ATF or power steering fluid as per manual. Capacity approx. 1 liter.

Diesel Engine Heater Plugs:

Glow plug failure can cause hard starting in cold weather, especially on older 4D56 engines.

Suspension Bushings:

Worn suspension bushings are common due to load and road conditions, leading to clunks and poor handling.

Rusting:

Frame and body rust, particularly in regions with salt exposure, can be an issue on older vehicles if not maintained.

Clutch Wear:

Heavy use, especially towing or off-road, can lead to premature clutch wear in manual transmission models.

Turbocharger Issues:

Turbo failures on diesel models can occur due to lack of oil changes, lack of warm-up/cool-down periods, or oil starvation.

📚 Vehicle History

Mitsubishi Motors:

Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in automotive manufacturing, with early roots in shipbuilding and diversification into vehicles starting in the early 20th century.

L200 Lineage:

The L200 (also known as Triton, Strada, Mighty Max in different markets) is one of Mitsubishi's longest-running and most successful nameplates in the pickup truck segment, originating in the 1970s.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Okazaki Plant) and Thailand (Laem Chabang Plant) for global markets.

Sales Performance:

The L200 has consistently been a strong seller globally, particularly in markets favoring utility vehicles and pickups.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

The L200/Triton is generally recognized for its toughness, reliability, and value in the light commercial vehicle and utility pickup segments.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports and similar organizations often rated the L200 for its practicality and off-road capability, though comfort and refinement might score lower compared to more modern trucks.