Positioning:
A best-selling minivan in its segment, known for practicality and versatility.
Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Plymouth Voyager, Dodge Grand Caravan.
Vehicle Attributes:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, flexible seating configurations, family-oriented.
Value:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the 1996-1997 Chrysler Caravan, saving on dealership service costs.
Engine:
All gasoline engine variants, including diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and specifications.
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE), including hydraulics, valve body, torque converter, and electronic controls.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc/drum brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, and linkage.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, power windows, locks, and comfort features.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including compressor, refrigerant, and controls.
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, and structural components.
Chassis:
Frame and chassis components, exhaust system, fuel system (tank, lines, pump).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I and early OBD-II) procedures, scan tool usage, and DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling engine components, transmission, axles, body panels, etc.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, and alignment data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Completeness:
Factory-level detail covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair.
Engine Code Displacement:
3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72) and 3.3L V6 (Chrysler EDB/EDZ)
3.0L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 142 hp @ 4800 rpm
3.0L V6 Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.3L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 158 hp @ 4500 rpm
3.3L V6 Torque:
Approx. 195 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 41TE, 42LE)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (All models typically came with automatic)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shifting, torque converter lock-up.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar material designation for that era)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Likely 4-star driver, 4-star passenger (based on common ratings for the era, manual will confirm specific tests)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels or all wheels.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pretensioners.
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks, LATCH anchor points (may be optional or later addition).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.
Spark Plugs:
Typically at 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 API Certified
Coolant:
50/50 mix of Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) and distilled water
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid failure, evaporator core leaks (leading to AC issues), dashboard cracks, suspension wear, rear sway bar links.
Common Problems Engine:
Timing belt replacement (for 3.0L Mitsubishi engine), intake manifold gasket leaks (3.3L/3.8L).
Brand Focus:
Chrysler has a long history of innovation in automotive design, particularly with the minivan segment.
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation (NS) of the Chrysler Caravan, which debuted in 1996.
Design Changes From Previous:
Significant redesign including updated styling, improved aerodynamics, a longer wheelbase for better ride quality, and a more modern interior.
Production Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Chrysler Canada Assembly Plant)
