Generation:
Third Generation (K50-K70 Series)
Chassis Codes:
K52, K56, K62, K64, K72, K74, K76, K77
Engine Codes:
4D56, 4G63, 4G64, 6G72 (Varies by market and trim)
Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Pickup Truck, Light Commercial Vehicle
Key Competitors:
Toyota Hilux/Tacoma, Nissan Hardbody/Frontier, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Colorado, Isuzu Rodeo/D-Max
Utility:
Renowned for its ruggedness, reliability, and versatile hauling and towing capabilities. Available in various body styles including single cab, extended cab, and double cab. Often featured robust 4WD systems.
Target Audience:
Commercial users, tradespeople, agricultural workers, off-road enthusiasts, and those seeking a durable and capable utility vehicle.
Covered Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, diesel injection systems, turbocharger systems
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, driveshafts, differentials (front and rear), 4WD system operation and servicing
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, HVAC controls, starting and charging system, fuses and relays
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, tailgate/tailgate assist, glass
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement (oil, fuel, air), fluid checks and replacements (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential repair, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack overhaul
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagram interpretation for electrical faults, fuel system testing, ignition system testing
Special Procedures:
4WD system engagement/disengagement checks, turbocharger diagnostics and replacement, clutch replacement, flywheel machining/replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic adjustments and maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Engine 1 Type:
2.5L SOHC Diesel (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged variants)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2477 cc
Engine 1 Power:
Approx. 73-99 hp (Naturally Aspirated) / 85-115 hp (Turbocharged) depending on specific tuning and market
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 143-177 Nm (Naturally Aspirated) / 170-210 Nm (Turbocharged) depending on specific tuning and market
Engine 2 Type:
2.0L SOHC Petrol
Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc
Engine 2 Power:
Approx. 103-120 hp
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 170-180 Nm
Engine 3 Type:
2.4L SOHC Petrol
Engine 3 Displacement:
2351 cc
Engine 3 Power:
Approx. 118-135 hp
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 190-210 Nm
Engine 4 Type:
3.0L SOHC V6 Petrol
Engine 4 Displacement:
2972 cc
Engine 4 Power:
Approx. 145-170 hp
Engine 4 Torque:
Approx. 240-270 Nm
Fuel Delivery:
MPI (Multi-Point Injection) for petrol engines, Indirect Injection (IDI) with rotary injection pump for diesel engines. Turbocharged diesel engines utilize a turbocharger and intercooler.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
4Wd System:
Part-time 4WD with manual or electronic (Super Select) transfer case options. Typically includes high-range (2H, 4H) and low-range (4HLc, 4LLc) gearing. Some models featured a locking rear differential.
Wheelbase:
Commonly 3000 mm (Long Bed), 2660 mm (Short Bed)
Length:
Varies by body style and bed length (e.g., approx. 4690-5050 mm for long bed variants)
Width:
Approx. 1690-1775 mm
Height:
Approx. 1630-1800 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1900 kg (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2300-2700 kg
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 750-1200 kg
Towing Capacity:
Typically up to 1500-2000 kg (braked trailer), depending on market regulations and vehicle specification.
Crash Test Results:
Safety standards varied significantly by region and market during this period. Typically lacked advanced safety features common in later models. Focus was on structural integrity for its class.
ABS:
Optional on some higher trim levels and in specific markets.
Airbags:
Driver airbag often standard, passenger airbag optional or unavailable on lower trims/early models.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelts with pre-tensioners standard. Rear seatbelt configurations varied by cab type.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or single-disc CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Navigation:
Not available on this generation.
Cruise Control:
Optional on higher trim levels and certain engine configurations.
Bluetooth:
Not available on this generation.
HVAC:
Manual or semi-automatic climate control systems with A/C and heater. Ventilation system diagrams included.
Oil Change Diesel:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months (whichever comes first), using the specified API CF or ACEA B3/B4 rated oil. Check manual for exact recommendation.
Oil Change Petrol:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months (whichever comes first), using specified API SJ or higher rated oil.
Fuel Filter Diesel:
Replace every 20,000 - 30,000 km. Crucial for diesel longevity.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 10,000 km, replace every 20,000 - 30,000 km or as needed based on operating conditions.
Engine Oil Diesel:
API CF/CF-4 or ACEA B3/B4, SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 (depending on ambient temperature). Capacity approx. 6.5-7.5 liters with filter.
Engine Oil Petrol:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Capacity approx. 4.3-4.8 liters with filter.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (green or blue) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 7-8 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent. Capacity approx. 3.5-4.5 liters (drain and refill).
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 80W-90 or SAE 85W-140 (check viscosity based on climate).
Diesel Engine Glow Plugs:
Glow plugs can fail over time, leading to hard starting in cold weather. Manual provides testing and replacement procedures.
4Wd System Actuation:
Vacuum lines or actuators for front hub engagement can leak or fail, preventing 4WD engagement. Manual details diagnostic checks.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings are common wear items, especially on heavily used vehicles. Manual provides replacement and alignment specs.
Rust:
Like many trucks of this era, rust can be an issue in certain climates, particularly on frame rails, body panels, and in the bed.
Mitsubishi Trucks:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing robust and capable trucks, dating back to the early days of the Colt T120. The L200 (known as Triton in many markets) lineage is a cornerstone of this heritage.
Third Gen Introduction:
The K50-K70 series was introduced in 1996 as a significant redesign over its predecessor, featuring a more modern and aerodynamic appearance, improved comfort, and enhanced capability. This generation saw global expansion and cemented the L200's reputation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Okazaki Plant) and Thailand (Laem Chabang Plant), with assembly in various other countries for regional markets.
Industry Awards:
While specific awards vary by region, the L200/Triton consistently received recognition for its durability, utility, and value in the pickup truck segment globally.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally regarded as a reliable and durable workhorse, particularly the diesel variants, earning a strong reputation for longevity when properly maintained.
