Positioning:
A compact, economical commercial van designed for light-duty urban transport and utility. Competed with other small Japanese and European light commercial vehicles of its era.
Competitors:
Likely competed with vehicles such as the Suzuki Carry/Every, Subaru Sambar, and potentially smaller vans from Daihatsu and other manufacturers in its target markets.
Features:
Compact dimensions for maneuverability, fuel efficiency, functional cargo space, rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive variants, simple and robust mechanical design.
Audience:
Small business owners, tradespeople, delivery services, and individuals requiring a cost-effective and practical light commercial vehicle.
Coverage Years:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 600-800 pages (typical for a complete workshop manual of this era).
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems, carburetor troubleshooting and adjustment.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (likely 4-speed and potentially 5-speed), clutch system, gearbox overhaul, adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, differential (integrated with transmission).
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (likely MacPherson strut), rear leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, bushings.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Steering:
Manual steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering gear.
Electrical:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for various circuits.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, latches, hinges, glass, interior trim, seat adjustments.
Heating Ventilation:
HVAC system components, heater core, blower motor, ducting, cabin air filtration (if applicable).
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, lubrication points, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and adjustment.
Routine Repairs:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, exhaust system repair, minor engine component replacement (e.g., water pump, thermostat).
Major Overhauls:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission disassembly and reassembly, brake system overhaul.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common malfunctions in engine, electrical, and mechanical systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, engine clearances, suspension alignment data, and other critical measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete component disassembly, repair, and reassembly. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.
Engine Code:
Likely a variant of the Mitsubishi Orion/Sirius engine family, such as the 4G series, specifically optimized for commercial use. Common displacement in this class was around 1.0L to 1.4L. Example: 4G11 (1.2L) or similar.
Displacement:
Typically around 1.0L to 1.4L (e.g., 1000cc to 1400cc). Specific displacement would be confirmed within the manual.
Configuration:
Inline-4, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), naturally aspirated.
Horsepower:
Estimated range of 45-60 HP (depending on exact engine and tuning).
Torque:
Estimated range of 55-75 lb-ft (depending on exact engine and tuning).
Induction:
Carburetor (likely a single-barrel or two-barrel downdraft carburetor).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Type:
Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 - 3.5 liters (including oil filter). Specific capacity detailed in manual.
Spark Plugs:
Specific part numbers and gap settings provided in manual (e.g., NGK BP series).
Length:
Compact van dimensions, typically under 3.5 meters (138 inches) to qualify for specific tax/licensing categories.
Width:
Narrower than standard passenger cars, typically around 1.4-1.5 meters (55-59 inches).
Height:
Designed for efficient urban cargo capacity, likely around 1.8-1.9 meters (71-75 inches).
Capacity:
Designed for maximizing cargo volume within its compact footprint. Exact cubic meter or cubic foot capacity would be specified in marketing materials or the manual.
Curb Weight:
Lightweight construction, typically ranging from 700-900 kg (1540-1980 lbs).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Designed for light commercial loads, GVWR would be around 1200-1500 kg (2645-3300 lbs).
Crash Test Results:
Vehicles from this era, particularly commercial vans, often had minimal or no standardized crash safety testing compared to modern vehicles. Results are unlikely to be available or comparable.
Braking System:
Standard hydraulic brake system with front discs and rear drums.
Seat Belts:
Lap belts in front, likely lap belts or no belts in rear seating areas (if applicable).
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body panels for basic structural integrity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first, for this era of vehicle. Manual will provide precise intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or as needed based on operating conditions. Manual specifies.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles). Manual provides specific type and gap.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles). Manual specifies.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG service classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity. Manual will confirm exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual specifies correct type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 heavy-duty hydraulic brake fluid. Manual specifies.
Common Problems:
Corrosion/rusting in common areas (wheel arches, sills, underbody), carburetor tuning issues, wear on suspension bushings, aging electrical components (e.g., wiring harness degradation), clutch wear.
Rust Prevention:
Regular washing, underbody rustproofing treatments are highly recommended, especially in areas with salt exposure.
Heritage:
Mitsubishi Motors has a long history in vehicle manufacturing, including a strong presence in commercial vehicles and kei trucks/vans globally, known for reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Predecessors:
The Colt T120SS Van is likely an evolution of Mitsubishi's earlier small commercial van offerings, building on the platform and technologies of models like the Mitsubishi Minicab.
Successors:
Later generations of Mitsubishi's compact commercial vehicles, which continued under names like Minicab, Town Box, and similar commercial designations.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
Production Period:
Specific to the 1979-1985 model years, but the underlying platform may have been produced for a broader period with minor updates.
