Positioning:
The Alfa Romeo 155 was positioned as a premium compact executive sedan, known for its sporty handling and distinctive Italian styling.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series (E36), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202), and Audi A4 (B5).
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized driving dynamics, driver engagement, and a blend of performance and luxury.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, potentially saving $50-$60 per hour in shop labor costs.
Authenticity:
Genuine factory service manual, providing accurate and official repair information.
Engine Management:
Engine Control System, Fuel Injection / Fuel System, Emission System
Powertrain:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Differential/Drive, Axle
Chassis And Suspension:
Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Chassis/Body
Electrical And Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Troubleshooting
Comfort And Convenience:
Heater/Air Conditioner, Interior
Safety And Restraint:
Restraint System
Exhaust System:
Includes diagnosis and repair of the exhaust system, emissions control components, and catalytic converters.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, and tank servicing.
Ignition System:
Covers spark plugs, ignition coils, and the overall ignition timing and control for Twin Spark engines.
Bodywork:
Information on body panel alignment, doors, hoods, trunk, and basic exterior trim repair. Chassis/Body section likely covers structural integrity and mounting points.
Interior:
Details on dashboard removal, seat servicing, trim panel installation, and climate control unit access.
Cooling System:
Covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and cooling fan operation. Includes flushing and refilling procedures.
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all covered systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, etc.
Diagnostics:
Advanced troubleshooting guide to diagnose and correct problems, including electrical system diagnostics and fault code interpretation.
Tire And Wheel:
Information on tire pressure recommendations, wheel balancing, and alignment procedures. Specific tire sizes and wheel specifications may be included.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common issues, including intermittent faults and performance problems.
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually every major component and sub-assembly of the vehicle.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and restoration. Equivalent to professional technician knowledge.
Illustrations:
Contains numerous detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos to visually guide repair procedures.
Technical Notes:
Includes important notes, cautions, and warnings for critical steps and potential pitfalls.
Specifications Tables:
Likely includes comprehensive tables of technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and electrical data.
Engine Options:
The 1998 Alfa Romeo 155 was available with several engine variants, typically including 1.8L (TS), 2.0L (TS), and 2.5L (V6) naturally aspirated gasoline engines. Diesel options were also available in some markets. Specific engine details within the manual would cover all offered variants for 1998.
Typical Hp Range:
125 hp (1.8L TS) to 190 hp (2.5L V6) depending on engine variant.
Torque Characteristics:
Emphasis on twin-spark ignition (TS) engines for improved performance and flexibility across the rev range. V6 engines provided smoother power delivery and higher torque.
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), typically Bosch or Magneti Marelli systems.
Typical Codes:
TS (Twin Spark) engines often had specific engine codes depending on displacement (e.g., AR 342.01 for 1.8 TS, AR 342.02 for 2.0 TS). V6 engines would have their own designations (e.g., AR 162.04 for the 2.5 V6).
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,500 mm (98.4 in) - Specific figures can vary slightly based on exact model/trim.
Length:
Approximately 4,310 mm (169.7 in).
Width:
Approximately 1,700 mm (66.9 in).
Height:
Approximately 1,420 mm (55.9 in).
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and equipment, generally between 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) and 1,450 kg (3,197 lbs).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact interval and oil type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For Twin Spark (TS) engines, critical service interval, typically 60,000-90,000 km (37,000-56,000 miles). Manual will provide precise interval and procedure.
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG/SH or higher. Manual will list precise specification and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify correct type and change interval.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmission: GL-4 gear oil. Automatic transmission: ATF Dexron II/III or equivalent. Manual will detail specific type and capacity.
Common Concerns:
Potential for aging electrical components, worn suspension bushings, and in some cases, thermostat or cooling system issues. Early Twin Spark engines could be sensitive to maintenance, particularly timing belt intervals. Rust can be a concern on older examples.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older Italian cars, including issues with wiring harness integrity, sensors, and ECUs. The manual's detailed wiring diagrams are invaluable for troubleshooting.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are typical wear items that affect ride and handling.