🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

LHS

Year:

1997

Platform:

LH Platform

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, amateur enthusiasts, and DIY owners seeking in-depth knowledge for repairs and maintenance.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealer-level instructional guides for a wide range of repairs, empowering owners to maintain and repair their vehicle effectively, potentially saving on labor costs.

Ease Of Use:

Simple PDF format, no installation required, compatible with all Windows OS, smartphones, and tablets.

Instructional Style:

Step-by-step illustrated procedures and complete walk-throughs of complex tasks.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Chrysler LHS

Secondary Coverage:

Related LH Platform models (e.g., Concorde, Intrepid, LHS models from adjacent years may share significant components and procedures)

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed page count not provided, but typical comprehensive service manuals for this era range from 1500-3000 pages in print equivalent.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Delivery Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Includes detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for the engine, including timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel, and ignition systems.

Drivetrain:

Covers the automatic transmission (likely a 4-speed 42LE), propeller shafts, and rear axle components.

Suspension Steering:

Detailed information on front and rear suspension systems (struts, control arms, bushings), and the steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion).

Brakes:

Covers brake system components, including discs, pads, calipers, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped.

Electrical Electronic:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, starting, charging, and onboard electronics.

Bodywork Chassis:

Includes body panel repair, interior trim removal, chassis lubrication points, and structural components.

HVAC:

Coverage for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, component diagnostics, and repair.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides for common issues across various systems.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and pinpoint tests for electronic systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and adjustments to major component overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Reader Recommendation:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (for optimal display of images and graphics)

Extraction Required:

Yes, if provided as a ZIP archive. Requires WinRAR or 7-Zip.

Printability:

Printable by page or section.

Illustration Quality:

Illustrated step-by-step repair procedures, with schematic diagrams for electrical systems.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital PDF format).

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital PDF format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

3.5L V6 (EGE)

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (215 cubic inches)

Configuration:

SOHC V6 (Single Overhead Camshaft per bank)

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 81.0 mm (3.78 in x 3.19 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Horsepower:

214 hp @ 5,800 rpm (approximate for 1997 model)

Torque:

221 lb-ft @ 3,100 rpm (approximate for 1997 model)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs

Coolant Type:

Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to specific part number for verification.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Code:

42LE

Shift Modes:

Normal/Economy and Sport modes

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4). Note: ATF+4 was introduced later; for 1997, Mopar ATF+ or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid might have been specified. Manual will clarify.

Gear Ratios:

Manual will contain specific gear ratio information.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches (2870 mm)

Length:

202.0 inches (5131 mm)

Width:

74.0 inches (1880 mm)

Height:

55.9 inches (1420 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,500 - 3,700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg), depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Manual will specify GVWR.

Standard Tire Size:

P205/65R15 or P215/60R16 (Check specific trim level)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 100 mm (5 x 3.94 inches)

Wheel Size:

15 or 16 inch alloy wheels

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-star driver and passenger rating in frontal crash tests (as per NHTSA data from the era).

Antilock Brakes:

Standard (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional or standard on higher trims

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Premium sound systems may have been available.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with digital display was a key feature, offering precise temperature management.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available feature for locking/unlocking doors remotely.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise interval and oil type.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km). Manual is the definitive source.

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 3-5 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Manual to verify specific type and interval.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API certified. Check manual for specific API service classification (e.g., SG, SH, SJ).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact capacity.

Head Gaskets:

Some 3.5L V6 engines of this era can be prone to head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Transmission Solenoids:

The 42LE transmission can experience issues with solenoids or internal seals, affecting shift quality. The manual provides diagnostic steps.

Power Windows Locks:

Electrical components, including power window regulators and locks, can sometimes fail. The electrical section of the manual is crucial here.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Heritage:

Chrysler has a long history of producing comfortable, stylish, and feature-rich sedans, aiming for a premium feel within their market segment.

Lhs Origin:

The LHS was introduced in 1994 as Chrysler's flagship luxury sedan, based on the new LH platform, replacing the Imperial. It aimed to compete with established luxury brands by offering high levels of comfort, advanced features, and a distinctive cab-forward design.

1997 Updates:

The 1997 model represents the mid-cycle of the first generation LH platform. Updates for this year often included minor styling tweaks, feature packaging adjustments, and potential powertrain refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

10 Best List:

Chrysler LH platform vehicles, including the LHS, were often lauded by automotive publications for their design and comfort, though specific '10 Best' awards for the 1997 LHS are not widely documented.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings for the 1997 LHS would vary annually. Early LH platform vehicles sometimes faced criticism for reliability in certain areas, while praising comfort and design. The manual itself is a testament to its maintainability.