🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan / Grand Caravan

Years Covered:

1997, 1998, 1999

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan were segment-defining minivans, popular for family transport and versatility. This manual addresses a critical period in their development.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, Ford Windstar, and Chevrolet Venture.

Model Strengths:

Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements (Stow 'n Go introduced later, but versatility was key), comfortable ride, and availability of powerful V6 engines.

Value:

Provides DIY mechanics and professional technicians with the essential information to diagnose, maintain, and repair these vehicles, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engines including 2.4L, 3.0L V6, 3.3L V6, and 3.8L V6

Transmission Coverage:

Automatic Transmissions (A604, A670, 42LE)

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS and non-ABS), Body and Frame

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), HVAC Controls, Power Accessories

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (typically PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, emissions, cooling, lubrication, starting and charging, engine diagnostics.

Drivetrain Systems:

Automatic transmission operation, diagnosis, overhaul, clutch, differential, drive axles.

Chassis Systems:

Front and rear suspension, steering system components, brake system hydraulics and mechanics (including ABS), wheel bearings, alignment.

Body And Interior Systems:

Body construction, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, body hardware.

Electrical And Electronics Systems:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, battery system, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power windows/locks, cruise control, audio system, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and Body Control Module (BCM) functions and diagnostics.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, belt replacement, fluid checks and changes.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed overhaul procedures for engines and transmissions.

Special Tools And Techniques:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, often optimized for searchability and printing. High-resolution scans of original factory service manuals.

Quality:

High resolution, clear text and diagrams, allowing for easy reading and printing of specific sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L DOHC I4 (Naturally Aspirated), 3.0L SOHC V6 (Mitsubishi design), 3.3L OHV V6 (Chrysler design), 3.8L OHV V6 (Chrysler design).

Horsepower Torque 3.3L V6:

Approx. 158 hp @ 4500 rpm, 190 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (figures may vary slightly by year).

Horsepower Torque 3.8L V6:

Approx. 166 hp @ 4500 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (figures may vary slightly by year).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

ECU Type:

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange. Refer to manual for specific Mopar part numbers (e.g., Mopar 05010855AA).

Oil Type 3.3L 3.8L:

SAE 3.8L V6: SAE 5W-30 viscosity recommended. (Consult manual for exact specification, e.g., MS-6395)

Oil Capacity 3.3L:

Approx. 4.5 U.S. quarts (4.3 L) with filter. (Verify in manual)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic Transmission only.

Transmission Variants:

A604 (4-speed automatic transaxle), A670 (4-speed automatic transaxle, evolution of A604), 42LE (4-speed automatic transaxle with improved torque converter).

Torque Converter Lockup:

Torque converter clutch for improved fuel economy at cruising speeds.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4), formerly ATF+3. Use Mopar or equivalent. (e.g., Mopar 05013457GA)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 4-5 U.S. quarts (3.8-4.7 L) for a fluid change. Total capacity higher for overhaul. (Verify in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

112.1 inches (2847 mm) for Grand Caravan, 111.8 inches (2839 mm) for Caravan.

Length:

Approx. 190-193 inches (4826-4896 mm) depending on model and year.

Cargo Volume Max:

Over 140 cubic feet (3,965 L) with rear seats removed.

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,300 lbs (1,724 - 1,950 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with optional towing package and the 3.8L V6 engine.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Likely 4-star rating (based on typical performance for the era, refer to specific NHTSA reports for exact data).

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Likely 4-star rating (based on typical performance for the era, refer to specific NHTSA reports for exact data).

IIHS Front Barrier Frontal:

Likely Acceptable rating (based on typical performance for the era, refer to specific IIHS reports for exact data).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on higher trims or with specific engines.

Traction Control:

Traction control system was an option on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, including shoulder belts in the second and third rows.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options. Optional premium sound systems were available.

Display Screens:

Basic dashboard display for instrumentation. No integrated navigation or touchscreen displays in this era.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control system available on most trims.

Auxiliary Input:

No standard auxiliary audio input (e.g., 3.5mm jack) or USB ports. Aftermarket solutions typically required.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were common options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Refer to manual for exact specification and severe driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km), or as per severe service schedule. Fluid and filter change is crucial for longevity.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically have a service life of 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification). Use fresh fluid from a sealed container.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent specification (often a specific type of ATF fluid). Check manual for exact type.

Common Wear Items:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings), wheel bearings, exhaust systems, HVAC blower motors, and transmission solenoid packs in early models.

Engine Specific Issues:

Oil leaks from valve covers and oil pans, potential head gasket issues on earlier 3.0L V6 engines, and distributor issues on some models.

Transmission Specific Issues:

Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder, and internal component wear in higher mileage units.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), has a long history of producing robust vehicles, including popular trucks and muscle cars.

Third Generation Minivan:

These model years (1997-1999) represent the third generation of the Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan platform, known for styling updates and continued improvements in safety and powertrain.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in North America, with significant production facilities in Canada (Windsor, Ontario) and the United States.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Leader:

The Caravan/Grand Caravan was a perennial sales leader and often considered the benchmark in the minivan segment during its production years.

Consumer Reports Historical:

Historically, Consumer Reports ratings varied, often citing good performance and utility but sometimes flagging reliability concerns in specific areas (e.g., transmissions, electrical).

Manufacturer Certification:

Manual adheres to manufacturer's recommended service procedures and specifications.