🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Galant

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E39A (primarily, though variations exist across generations)

Platform:

Mitsubishi E-Platform (shared with models like the Eclipse and 3000GT in various forms)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience:

Families, commuters seeking reliable and well-equipped transportation, performance enthusiasts (especially with the 4G63 turbo variants).

Competitors:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Contour, Chevrolet Lumina.

Features:

Sporty styling (especially the GSX and GT models), available all-wheel drive, powerful engine options (4G63), good value for money, strong aftermarket support.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models and all engine types for the 1997 model year

Pages:

Likely in the range of 1000-1500+ pages for a complete factory service manual, though not explicitly stated in provided info. Original factory manuals are typically extensive.

Type:

Original Factory Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Original Factory Publication (likely printed, often reproduced in PDF for digital sales)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, specifications, maintenance for all engine variants including 4G63, 4G64, and potentially V6 6G72.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, and procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) system service, including differential, axles, and driveshafts.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system diagnosis, repair, component replacement (master cylinder, calipers, lines, ABS system), and bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component identification, removal, installation, alignment specifications, and shock/strut replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, rack and pinion service.

Electrical:

Full wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, component testing, diagnosis of starting, charging, lighting, and accessory systems.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement, heater core service, and blower motor.

Body:

Panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, and body repair guidelines.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I and OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine, transmission, brake, suspension, electrical, and other system repairs.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications and clearance measurements.

Adjustment:

Valve adjustments, clutch adjustment, parking brake adjustment, idle speed adjustments.

Special Instructions:

Guidance on special tools, procedures for sensitive components, and safety precautions.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF (if digital) with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams. Original may be bound paper.

Quality:

Original factory publications are typically high quality with clear text and precise diagrams. Digital reproductions aim to match this fidelity.

Binding:

If printed: Perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat use. If digital: PDF.

Paper:

Originals likely printed on durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Name:

2.4L SOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (4G64)

Engine 1 Displacement:

2351 cc

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

86.5 mm x 100.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 141 hp @ 5500 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Name:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Turbocharged Inline-4 (4G63)

Engine 2 Displacement:

1997 cc

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 215-218 hp @ 6000 rpm (GSX model)

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 203 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (GSX model)

Engine 3 Name:

3.0L SOHC 24-valve V6 (6G72)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2972 cc

Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Engine 3 Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 160-165 hp @ 5500 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 185-190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for all engines.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline. Premium unleaded recommended for 4G63 Turbo and potentially optimal for V6.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-speed manual transmission (on many models).

Transmission Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (INVECS-II on some models).

AWD System:

Active All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on GSX models, featuring a viscous coupling center differential and optional electronically controlled rear differential.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (specifics vary, consult manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-III ATF or equivalent DEXRON-III compatible fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 184.1 inches (4675 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.7 inches (2660 mm)

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approx. 3000 lbs (1360 kg) for base models to 3300+ lbs (1500+ kg) for AWD GSX models.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 4000-4300 lbs.

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 14.5 cu ft (noting potential variations).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

NHTSA ratings from this era are less standardized, but generally considered fair to good for its class. Specific data may vary by test and year.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on higher trims or optional.

Traction Control:

Traction control system (TCL) was optional or standard on performance models like the GSX.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags were standard for this model year.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's side pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronic cruise control system.

Diagnostics Interface:

OBD-I port for earlier diagnostics, transitioning to OBD-II for later production models within this generation. The manual will cover the specific diagnostic protocols.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes (e.g., every 3,000 miles).

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace at every oil change.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).

Spark Plugs:

Replace at 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on type (e.g., platinum).

Timing Belt:

Critical for 4G63/4G64 engines. Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil:

API SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 viscosity recommended. Check manual for specific requirements based on climate.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Consult manual for specific Mopar or Mitsubishi approved coolant type.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mitsubishi PSF or DEXRON-II/III ATF.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine and transmission mounts can lead to excessive vibration and noise, especially under load.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Tensioner failure can lead to skipped timing or belt breakage. Regular replacement is crucial.

Cv Axles:

Cracked or worn CV axle boots can lead to joint failure, causing clicking noises during turns.

Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:

Can occur due to low fluid, worn solenoids, or internal wear. The INVECS-II transmission management can be sensitive.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common in older vehicles, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Check wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis.

HVAC Blower Motor:

Blower motor resistor failure or motor burnout can lead to loss of fan speeds or no fan operation.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mitsubishi has a long history of engineering, starting with shipbuilding and expanding into automotive manufacturing with a focus on robust and technologically advanced vehicles.

Generation:

The 1997 Galant belongs to the sixth generation (1994-1998) of the Galant, a significant redesign that moved it to a more modern platform. It was offered in various trims like DE, ES, LS, GS, and the performance-oriented GSX AWD.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan, but also had assembly plants in the United States (Normal, Illinois) for the North American market.

Production Years:

The Galant nameplate has been used by Mitsubishi since 1969. The sixth generation ran from 1994 to 1998.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards History:

While specific awards for the 1997 model year might be difficult to pinpoint without extensive historical data, the Galant line was generally well-regarded for its styling, value, and for performance-oriented trims like the GSX, its handling and power. It often appeared on 'best of' lists for its segment in the mid-to-late 90s.