Key Value Proposition:
Practicality, passenger and cargo capacity, family-oriented transportation.
Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna.
Segment Defining Features:
Sliding rear doors, flexible seating arrangements, ample interior space.
Generation Attributes:
Second generation (NS) featured improved aerodynamics, updated styling, and revised powertrains compared to the original.'
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine performance diagnostics, manual and automatic transmissions.
Chassis:
Suspension system (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio systems, HVAC controls, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, glass, seating systems, bumpers, body repair procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, air filter replacement, tire rotation and balancing.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for various systems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, fuel pump replacement.
Diagnostics And Testing:
Component testing procedures, electrical circuit testing, diagnostic tool usage, pressure testing, vacuum testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and advanced diagnostics, including torque specifications, clearances, and procedures for specialized tools.
Digital Format Details:
Likely PDF; searchable text is highly probable for digital downloads from reputable sources.
Print Quality Considerations:
Digital format allows for printing on demand, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text. Quality depends on original source and conversion process.
Binding Type Considerations:
N/A for digital download. If a printed version were sourced, expect spiral-bound or perfect-bound depending on the publisher.
Paper Type Considerations:
N/A for digital download. Original manuals typically used durable paper stock for workshop environments.
Engine Code:
2.4L SOHC I4 (Engine Code: EDZ)
Bore X Stroke:
90.0 mm x 95.0 mm
Horsepower Peak:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
Torque Peak:
180 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Engine Design:
Inline-4 cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
Engine Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
Timing Mechanism:
Timing Belt
Engine Code:
3.0L SOHC V6 (Engine Code: EGE / 6G72)
Horsepower Peak:
158 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)
Torque Peak:
181 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Timing Mechanism:
Timing Belt
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., A604/41TE)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Less Common)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter clutch, adaptive shift logic.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (check specific application)
Wheelbase:
112.1 inches (2847 mm)
Length:
189.7 inches (4818 mm)
Width:
72.1 inches (1831 mm)
Height:
68.4 inches (1737 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700 - 4100 lbs (1678 - 1860 kg) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5300 - 5700 lbs (2404 - 2585 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Typically up to 2000 lbs (check specific configuration and towing package).
Cargo Volume Behind First Row:
Up to 140+ cubic feet (depending on seat configuration)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
Approx. 70-80 cubic feet
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 1998 model year - varies slightly by specific test parameters)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, including shoulder belts for front and second row.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (or equivalent anchor points for child safety seats) may be present.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) was an optional feature on certain configurations.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD player was an optional upgrade. Speaker configurations varied.
Navigation:
No factory navigation system available for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims or widely available.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to factory-installed audio system; no Bluetooth or external media ports standard.
HVAC:
Manual or Automatic Climate Control, optional rear HVAC unit.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 3-6 months), depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (depending on severe service recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-90,000 miles for both engines. Critical due to interference design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual or manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.4L I4; Approx. 4.7 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 3.0L V6.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5/100 or equivalent).
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially in early 41TE), ignition coil failures, power window regulator failures, rear evaporator leaks (AC), timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule (critical for V6).
Potential Maintenance Concerns:
Regular inspection of suspension components for wear, checking for coolant leaks, timely replacement of the timing belt is paramount.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing practical and affordable vehicles, with the Caravan pioneering the minivan segment.
Caravan Introduction:
The Caravan was first introduced in 1984, revolutionizing the family vehicle market.
Generation Timeline:
1996-2000 (NS Generation). The 1998 model is part of the second generation, which received a facelift and significant mechanical updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada and St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Sales Significance:
The Dodge Caravan was a consistently strong seller, a dominant force in the minivan market throughout the 1990s.