🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

Conquest

Model Years Covered:

1986, 1987, 1988, 1989

Chassis Code:

A55 (North American designation for Mitsubishi Starion)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Sporty rear-wheel-drive coupe, competing in the performance/GT segment of its era.

Key Competitors:

Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7, Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, Pontiac Firebird.

Unique Selling Points:

Performance-oriented chassis, turbocharged engine options (on some variants), distinctive styling, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, often compared to its Mitsubishi Starion counterpart.

Chrysler Brand Context:

Chrysler's strategy in the 1980s often involved badge engineering and collaborations, with the Conquest being a prime example of leveraging Mitsubishi's engineering and product line for the North American market.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Authorized Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Book (likely a compilation of factory service bulletins and shop manuals)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (rear-wheel drive, limited-slip differential).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear independent), steering system, brake system (front ventilated discs, rear discs, parking brake), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), battery, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), wiper and washer system, HVAC blower motor, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics.

Body And Interior:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass and seals, upholstery, interior trim, seat adjustments, bumpers, exterior trim.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and replacement, air filter replacement, battery maintenance.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, including specific test procedures, symptom charts, and fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era).

Repair And Overhaul:

Detailed disassembly, repair, and reassembly procedures for major components such as engine, transmission, differentials, suspension components, steering rack, brake calipers, and electrical modules.

Specifications And Data:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine build data, clearance specifications, electrical component specifications, diagnostic values, and alignment procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

Likely a digital reproduction of original factory manuals. If PDF, expect searchable text for ease of navigation and printing.

Print Quality Description:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations. Professional binding for durability if physical.

Binding Type Description:

If printed: Professional binding (e.g., perfect bound, spiral bound) for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type Description:

If printed: Durable, high-quality paper stock suitable for workshop use, resistant to grease and wear.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

4G54 / G54B (2.6L SOHC I4)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2555 cc (2.6 Liters)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 109-116 hp @ 4500-5000 rpm (depending on year and emissions equipment)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 135-145 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm

Horsepower Turbocharged:

Approx. 145-170 hp @ 4500-5000 rpm (depending on boost pressure and intercooling)

Torque Turbocharged:

Approx. 180-200 lb-ft @ 2500-3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery Naturally Aspirated:

Fuel Injection (MPI or Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI)

Fuel Delivery Turbocharged:

Fuel Injection (MPI or Electronic Fuel Injection - EFI) with Turbocharger and Intercooler

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based or distributorless in later variants)

Engine Control Unit:

ECU (Electronic Control Unit) managing fuel injection and ignition timing.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

3-Speed or 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Drive Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

Differential:

Standard open differential, optional Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) on performance models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to specific manual for precise recommendation).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / MERCON compatible ATF (refer to specific manual for precise recommendation).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 97.1 inches (2466 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 172.8 inches (4389 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 51.0 inches (1295 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,800 - 3,200 lbs (1270 - 1451 kg) depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult specific vehicle placard or manual.

Cargo Volume:

Limited cargo space in the rear coupe area.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Likely not tested under modern stringent NHTSA standards. Early 1980s safety standards were less comprehensive.

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Discs. Power assisted with proportioning valve. ABS was not standard, possibly optional on later models.

Steering System:

Power assisted rack and pinion.

Seat Belts:

Three-point retractable seat belts (front), lap belts (rear, if applicable).

Airbags:

Not equipped with airbags.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, potentially with amplifier and graphic equalizer options. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, coolant temperature, oil pressure. Warning lamps for various systems. Boost gauge on turbocharged models.

Cruise Control:

Optional, electronically controlled cruise control.

Anti Lock Brakes:

ABS was not standard and may have been optional on later models. If equipped, consult manual for specific operation and troubleshooting.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Basic analog connections for audio system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (recommendation based on driving conditions; consult manual for specifics).

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 24,000 - 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:

Every 24,000 - 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (gear oil inspection/change).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approx. 30,000 miles (may vary based on plug type).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consider synthetic for older engines. Consult manual for precise spec).

Engine Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Use green colored coolant for this era.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (always use fresh, sealed fluid).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III compatible fluid (check manual for specific type).

Engine Performance Issues:

Turbocharger wear and failure (especially seals), potential for head gasket issues if overheated, worn valve stem seals leading to oil consumption.

Electrical System Issues:

Corrosion in connectors, failing relays, aged wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent issues. Heater control panel issues.

Suspension And Steering:

Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common with age and mileage. Power steering pump leaks.

Body And Interior:

Rust (especially on wheel arches, rocker panels, and underbody), aging rubber seals leading to water leaks, interior plastic trim degradation.

Oil Filter Example:

Fram PH3600, Wix 51515, Purolator L30001 (cross-reference specific to vehicle VIN and engine is recommended).

Air Filter Example:

Fram CA3113, Wix 42277, K&N E-1250 (cross-reference specific to vehicle VIN and engine is recommended).

Spark Plug Example:

NGK BP5ES, Champion RN12YC (confirm specific heat range and gap for engine variant).

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Historical Context:

Chrysler Corporation's partnership with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation was instrumental in expanding its product lineup in the 1980s, filling niches with rebadged Mitsubishi models like the Conquest (Starion).

Conquest Origin:

The Chrysler Conquest is a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Starion, first introduced in North America in 1984. Chrysler marketed it to appeal to a performance-oriented demographic.

Key Model Changes 86-89:

Throughout its run, the Conquest (and Starion) saw minor updates to styling, features, and engine performance, with turbocharged models becoming more prevalent and refined. Power output saw gradual increases.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (produced by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation)

Production Years:

1984-1989 (for the Conquest in North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Often praised for its sporty handling and performance, especially the turbocharged models, though sometimes criticized for its aging powertrain technology and interior ergonomics compared to newer competitors.

Performance Metrics:

0-60 mph times typically ranged from 7-10 seconds for turbocharged models, depending on the specific variant and driver.

Emission Standards Compliance:

Compliant with US federal and California emissions standards for the respective model years. Manual will detail specific compliance information.