Market Segment:
Mid-size minivan / family van.
Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Toyota Previa, Honda Odyssey, Plymouth Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country (closely related platforms).
Vehicle Strengths:
Spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, comfortable ride, availability of AWD (All-Wheel Drive) on select models.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures essential for maintaining and repairing the 1996-1997 Dodge Caravan, enabling cost savings and proper vehicle upkeep.
Platform Sharing:
Shares its NS platform with the Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country, but service procedures can have model-specific variations covered in the manual.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.4L DOHC, 3.0L V6, 3.3L V6, 3.8L V6), transmission (automatic transaxles: A604, A606, A670), drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, bushings), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), braking system (disc/drum, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories, diagnostics (OBD-II).
Body:
Body and frame construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, glass, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), power sliding door systems (if applicable to specific trims).
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Detailed symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and repair procedures, electrical system diagnosis.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul for all major systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment specifications, engine timing, electrical resistance values.
Body And Paint:
Information on body panel repair, door alignment, glass replacement, and corrosion prevention.
HVAC System:
Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems, including refrigerant handling (where applicable for the era).
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed schematics, diagnostic procedures, and component-level repair instructions.
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures likely reference specific diagnostic tools and scan tools for fault code retrieval and live data analysis.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
PDF format typically allows for text searching, enabling quick navigation to specific topics.
Print Quality:
Designed for clear printing of text and diagrams. High-resolution scans or original factory formatting.
Binding Type:
N/A (Downloadable PDF - printing and binding is user-dependent)
Paper Type:
N/A (Downloadable PDF - paper type is user-dependent for printing)
Engine Options:
2.4L (2428cc) DOHC Inline-4, 3.0L (2972cc) Mitsubishi V6, 3.3L (3301cc) OHV V6, 3.8L (3778cc) OHV V6.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 150 hp (2.4L) to 165 hp (3.8L V6).
Torque Range:
Approx. 170 lb-ft (2.4L) to 230 lb-ft (3.8L V6).
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on V6 engines, Distributor Ignition System on 2.4L.
Emissions Control:
Includes details on emission control systems, catalytic converters, and EGR systems as per 1996-1997 regulations.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., A604, A606, A670, depending on engine).
Optional Transmission:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option available with V6 engines.
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive, torque converter lock-up.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for each transmission model are detailed within the manual.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.1 inches.
Length:
Approx. 177.0 inches.
Seating Capacity:
Up to 7 passengers (with 2nd and 3rd-row seating).
Cargo Volume:
Significant cargo capacity, expandable with removable rear seats. Specific cubic footage varies with seating configuration.
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, typically starting around 3,500 lbs for base models.
Towing Capacity:
Towing capacity varies by engine and configuration; specifications are available in the manual.
NHTSA Ratings:
Side-impact protection, dual airbags (driver and passenger).
Insurance Institute Highway Safety:
IIHS crash test results and safety assessments for the period would be relevant context, although not directly provided by the manual description.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available or standard on some trims.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts for all outboard seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual for specific engine and oil type. Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months under normal driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type. Manual will specify.
Tune Up Items:
Spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter replacement intervals specified in manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service classification. Likely a blend or synthetic for V6 engines.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+3 or equivalent (ATF Type 7176). Manual will confirm exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT). Refer to manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks on some V6 engines, intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor issues on earlier models (though less common on '96-'97).
Common Problems Transmission:
Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter clutch shudder, fluid leaks.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings; power steering pump leaks.
Common Problems Electrical:
Faulty window regulators, power door lock actuators, HVAC blower motor issues, intermittent electrical connections.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for its performance and practicality.
Caravan Generation:
This manual covers the second generation (NS) Dodge Caravan, introduced in 1996, featuring a significant redesign from the previous generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in the United States.
