🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

1998

Product Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Platform Code:

NS (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Minivan

Target Audience:

Families, Fleet Operators, DIY Mechanics

Key Selling Points:

Versatility, Passenger Capacity, Cargo Space, Practicality

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Previa

Design:

Third-generation redesign (NS platform), improved aerodynamics, more integrated styling

Interior Layout:

Flexible seating configurations, focus on passenger comfort and utility

Powertrain Options:

Reliable V6 engine offerings, emphasis on smooth operation

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Dodge Caravan models for the 1998 model year

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels (e.g., SE, LE, ES)

Engine Options Covered:

All factory engine options for 1998

Transmission Options Covered:

All factory transmission options for 1998

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Official Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System

Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission (if applicable), Drivelines, Axles, Differentials

Chassis:

Suspension System (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear, ABS), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Ignition System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Fuses and Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM)

Body:

Body Exterior (Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate), Body Interior (Trim, Seats, Upholstery), HVAC System (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Repair:

Step-by-step Repair Procedures for all major components and systems, Component Removal and Installation, Adjustment Procedures

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) System Diagnosis, Scan Tool Usage, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing

Technical Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to major engine and transmission overhauls)

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics including troubleshooting for electronic control modules and sensors

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable Text

Printability:

Printable Pages

Quality:

High-Resolution Scans with Clear Illustrations and Diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

ECA (3.0L V6 OHV)

Displacement:

2977 cc (3.0 Liters)

Configuration:

V6, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Bore X Stroke:

84.5 mm x 89.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

180 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Code Optional:

ESF (3.3L V6 OHV)

Displacement Optional:

3301 cc (3.3 Liters)

Horsepower Optional:

158 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque Optional:

190 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Engine Code Optional 2:

EGA (3.8L V6 OHV)

Displacement Optional 2:

3778 cc (3.8 Liters)

Horsepower Optional 2:

175 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque Optional 2:

220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Octane Rating:

87 Octane (minimum recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Code Standard:

41TE

Type Optional:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Less Common)

Transmission Code Optional:

NV3500 (likely)

Electronic Control:

Electronically controlled for optimized performance and fuel economy

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive

Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 3)

Capacity Automatic:

Approximately 9.0 - 10.0 quarts (dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

112.1 inches

Overall Length:

177.4 inches

Overall Width:

71.4 inches

Overall Height:

68.5 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

3600 - 4000 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

5100 - 5400 lbs

Cargo Volume Behind First Row:

Approx. 120-130 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:

Approx. 70-80 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Third Row:

Approx. 20-30 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver Simulated:

4-star (out of 5)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger Simulated:

4-star (out of 5)

IIHS Offset Frontal Impact:

Good (Category)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional (on some models)

Airbags:

Standard Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seat Belts:

3-Point Height-Adjustable Front Seatbelts, Rear Lap and Shoulder Belts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard, but provisions exist; rear anchor points for child seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, Optional CD Player

Speakers:

4-6 speaker configurations

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Rear Parking Assist:

Optional

Auxiliary Input:

N/A (No factory auxiliary or USB inputs)

Keyless Entry:

Optional

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Recommendation:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions)

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

N/A (Not typically equipped with a cabin air filter in 1998)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (recommendation varies)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (Engines use timing chains)

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for all temperatures)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.5-4.0 quarts (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol-based, typically green)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11.0 - 13.0 quarts (depending on engine)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+3

Common Problems:

Transmission solenoid issues (especially on higher mileage units), EGR valve issues, coolant leaks from intake manifold or heater core, rear axle seal leaks, exhaust system rust

Electrical Problems:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, dashboard illumination issues, ABS sensor failures

Typical Repairs:

Front strut/shock replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, battery replacement, serpentine belt replacement

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Dodge (Chrysler Corporation)

Parent Company:

Chrysler Corporation

Generation:

Third Generation (NS Platform)

Introduction Year:

1996

Design Philosophy:

Refinement of the original minivan concept, focus on comfort, safety, and utility.

Previous Generation:

Second Generation (AS platform, 1991-1995)

Manufacturing Location:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Newark, Delaware, USA

Production Years For Generation:

1996-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Car and Driver's '10 Best Trucks' list (for minivan category) in 1997 and 1998

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated as average to above average for reliability in its class for this generation, though some specific components (like transmissions) had more reported issues.

Safety Certification:

Certified to meet all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for 1998.