Segment:
Compact Sports Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the 1997 Eclipse Spyder
Key Competitors:
Mazda Miata, Toyota MR2, Nissan 240SX Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible
Model Focus:
Performance-oriented convertible with distinct styling
Manual Value:
Provides critical OEM-level repair data essential for accurate and efficient servicing
Primary Coverage:
All mechanical and electrical systems for the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder
Secondary Coverage:
Bodywork, convertible top operation and maintenance, troubleshooting
Emissions Control:
Information on emission control systems and troubleshooting related to emissions
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Printed (typically bound)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain (Front Wheel Drive & All Wheel Drive options)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments, HVAC Electrical, Power Accessories, Audio System
Body:
Exterior panels, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, glass
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Repair:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I and early OBD-II systems, symptom-based diagnostics
Body And Trim:
Removal and installation of bumpers, fenders, hood, doors, interior panels, and convertible top components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all circuits, including lighting, power windows, convertible top operation, and engine management.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using diagnostic tools and interpreting sensor data for engine control systems.
Digital Format:
N/A (assuming original factory printed manual)
Quality:
High-quality paper, clear diagrams, and legible text (typical of factory publications)
Binding:
Stapled, perfect bound, or hardbound (depending on original factory production)
Paper:
Durable, high-grade paper suitable for workshop environments
Engine Code 1:
4G63 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4)
Engine Code 2:
4G64 (2.4L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Inline-4)
Horsepower 4G63:
205 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, depending on specific market tune)
Torque 4G63:
205 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approximate)
Horsepower 4G64:
141 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)
Torque 4G64:
155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Induction 4G63:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharging
Induction 4G64:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Bore Stroke 4G63:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Bore Stroke 4G64:
86.5 mm x 100.0 mm
Compression Ratio 4G63:
8.5:1 (approximate)
Compression Ratio 4G64:
9.5:1 (approximate)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Pack
Type FWD Na:
5-speed Manual FWD
Type AWD Turbo:
5-speed Manual AWD (with viscous coupling center differential)
Type FWD Na Auto:
4-speed Automatic FWD
Type AWD Turbo Auto:
4-speed Automatic AWD (with viscous coupling center differential)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic operated, single dry plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent specified by Mitsubishi)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen SP-III ATF (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon type)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.4 inches (1306 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.2 inches (2620 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
3100 - 3400 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)
Crash Test Data:
Limited specific government crash test data for convertible models from this era; consult individual test reports if available.
ABS:
Available on some trims/models
Traction Control:
Available on some AWD turbocharged models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player integration. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Some models featured digital climate control displays.
OBD Standard:
OBD-I for earlier production or specific diagnostics, transitioning to early OBD-II compliant systems towards the end of the model year.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (under normal driving conditions) or 2,500 miles or 3.75 months (under severe driving conditions)
Engine Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 60 months (CRITICAL for 4G63 engine to prevent catastrophic failure)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on ambient temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.4 US quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter for 4G63; 4.7 US quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter for 4G64
Coolant Type:
Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON III ATF or equivalent
Turbo Components 4G63:
Turbocharger wear, oil seals, wastegate issues, intercooler piping leaks
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic leaks in the top mechanism, motor failure, worn seals, canvas degradation
Suspension:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and struts, especially given the sporty nature of the car
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent issues with window motors, power locks, and dashboard warning lights can occur with age
Engine 4G64:
Oil consumption can be a concern in higher mileage naturally aspirated engines
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century.
Eclipse Generation:
This 1997 model belongs to the second generation (1995-1999) of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, which saw a significant redesign from the first generation.
Spyder Variant:
The Spyder designation indicates the convertible body style, introduced in the second generation, offering open-air driving.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Diamond-Star Motors - DSM plant in Normal, Illinois)
Production Years:
1995-1999 (2nd Generation)
Performance Reputation:
The turbocharged models, particularly the AWD variants, were highly regarded for their performance and tuning potential within the tuner community.
Design Awards:
The second-generation Eclipse platform, including the Spyder, received positive mentions for its styling when introduced.