🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mitsubishi

Model:

Eclipse Spyder

Model Generation:

1st Generation (D30)

Product Type:

Service Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Sports Convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking performance, style, and open-air driving experience; owners requiring comprehensive repair and maintenance information.

Key Competitors:

Mazda Miata (MX-5), Toyota MR2, Nissan 300ZX Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible.

Performance Offerings:

Available turbocharged engines, optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) in GSX models, sporty handling characteristics.

Convertible Design:

Power-operated soft-top roof, sporty two-door convertible body style.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, factory-level guidance essential for maintaining and repairing this specific performance convertible, including its unique convertible top system.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Years:

1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Trim Levels Covered:

All Spyder trims including GS, GS-T (Turbo), GSX (AWD Turbo)

Estimated Page Count:

~1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) / Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal and installation, cylinder head and valve train, crankshaft, pistons and connecting rods, engine lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (MPI), emission control systems, timing belt/chain system, forced induction systems (turbocharger).

Engine Management:

Engine Control Unit (ECU), ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, ECT, CKP, CMP), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), emissions related control.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearshift linkage, transmission removal and installation, internal transmission components, gear ratios, specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission removal and installation, hydraulic control system, torque converter, internal transmission components, shift control, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, rear-wheel drive shafts (for AWD models), differential (FWD and AWD), propeller shafts.

Suspension System:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, stabilizer bar), rear suspension (multi-link independent), shock absorbers, coil springs, wheel bearings, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, intermediate shaft, power steering pump, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and operation, brake fluid specifications, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, parking brake system.

Wheel And Tires:

Wheel types, tire sizes, tire pressure specifications, lug nut torque specifications, wheel bolt pattern.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, fenders, bumpers, frame construction, rust prevention, body repair techniques.

Convertible Top System:

Hydraulic system for power top operation, motor, cylinders, lines, switches, manual top mechanism (if applicable), top frame, seal adjustments, repair of the convertible top.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, electrical component testing.

Instrumentation And Controls:

Instrument cluster, gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temp), warning lights, switches, controls (HVAC, radio, etc.).

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control system (HVAC), power windows, power door locks, mirrors, seats, cruise control system, audio system.

Safety And Security:

Seat belts, airbag system (SRS) components and service precautions, immobilizer system (if equipped), anti-theft alarm system.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), tire rotation and inspection, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, use of scan tools, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Component Removal Installation:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing virtually every component on the vehicle, including engine parts, transmission, suspension components, brake assemblies, electrical modules, interior trim, and body panels.

Repair Rebuilding:

Detailed procedures for repairing or rebuilding major components such as engines, transmissions, steering racks, brake calipers, and convertible top hydraulics.

Adjustment Calibration:

Procedures for adjusting various systems, including brake systems, parking brake, convertible top mechanisms, clutch linkage, and suspension alignment settings.

Tightening Torques:

Specific torque specifications for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and component integrity.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, grounding points, and component connections.

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including oscilloscope usage, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, vacuum testing, and electrical circuit analysis.

Repair Scope:

Complete repair procedures, from minor adjustments to full engine and transmission overhauls, covering all mechanical, electrical, and bodywork aspects.

Specification Detail:

Detailed specifications for all components, including clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications, and electrical resistance values.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and illustrations.

Readability:

Clear, legible text and diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

4G63

Engine 1 Type:

2.0L DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4 (16-valve)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1997 cc (121.9 cu in)

Engine 1 Horsepower Gs T:

195 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Gs T:

203 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

Engine 1 Horsepower Gsx:

210 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Gsx:

214 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

Engine 2 Code:

4G63

Engine 2 Type:

2.0L DOHC Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (16-valve)

Engine 2 Displacement:

1997 cc (121.9 cu in)

Engine 2 Horsepower Gs:

140 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque Gs:

130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended for turbo models)

Fuel Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Turbocharger System:

Garrett T25 or similar (dependent on trim/year), intercooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission 2 Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on GSX models

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Multi-Gear Oil)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Diamond ATF SP-II or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II/III compatible)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

~173.4 inches (4404 mm)

Width:

~69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

~51.6 inches (1311 mm)

Wheelbase:

~100.4 inches (2550 mm)

Curb Weight Gs:

~3086 lbs (1399 kg)

Curb Weight Gs T:

~3197 lbs (1450 kg)

Curb Weight Gsx:

~3373 lbs (1530 kg)

Trunk Volume:

~6.5 cu ft (with top up)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) (for some model years)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, typically later years)

ABS:

Standard on GSX, optional on other trims

Traction Control:

Available on later AWD models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard; side airbags optional on some trims.

Seat Belts:

3-point front seat belts with pretensioners; 2-point rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most higher trim levels (GS-T, GSX), optional on GS.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available features, standard on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service), or as specified by oil type/quality.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical for 4G63 engine to prevent catastrophic damage)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs), or 60,000-100,000 miles (platinum/iridium plugs, if applicable)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for climate-specific recommendations)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Prestone Extended Life or similar OAT/HOAT formulation, check manual for exact spec)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III compatible fluid

Engine Oil Sludge:

Risk of sludge buildup in the 4G63 engine, particularly in early models, due to maintenance neglect or inadequate oil cooling. Regular oil changes and quality oil are crucial.

Turbocharger Reliability:

Turbocharger seals and bearings can wear over time, leading to oil leaks or loss of boost. Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are vital.

Convertible Top Hydraulics:

Hydraulic fluid leaks, pump failures, or cylinder issues can affect convertible top operation. Seals can degrade over time.

Suspension Wear:

Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to the sporty nature of the car and age. Struts and shocks may also require replacement.

Interior Trim Deterioration:

Plastic trim pieces, especially those exposed to sunlight, can become brittle or fade. Seat bolster wear is also common.

Clutch Wear:

Wear on the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing is typical with manual transmission vehicles, especially when driven spiritedly.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Heritage:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history of producing diverse vehicle types, including performance and rally-bred cars.

Eclipse Spyder Introduction:

The Spyder variant of the Mitsubishi Eclipse was introduced in 1990, based on the collaboration with Chrysler (Diamond-Star Motors joint venture). This generation shared platforms with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser.

Design Influence:

Styled by Mitsubishi's Design Studio in Japan, featuring an aggressive, wedge-shaped profile and a retractable fabric roof.

Manufacturing Location:

Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)

Production Period:

1990-1994 (1st Generation Eclipse, including Spyder)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The Mitsubishi Eclipse (including its Spyder variant in concept and eventual production) was often recognized for its styling and performance value in automotive reviews, although it may not have specifically appeared on the 'Ten Best' list as a convertible during this exact period.