Market Position:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon were popular entry-level sporty coupes in the 1990s, known for their performance potential, especially with turbocharged all-wheel-drive variants. They competed directly with vehicles like the Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, and Honda Prelude.
Target Audience:
Owners and mechanics looking for a comprehensive guide to maintain, diagnose, and repair their Mitsubishi Eclipse or Eagle Talon from 1990-1996.
Competitive Analysis:
Offered a compelling blend of styling, performance, and affordability, particularly the turbocharged models which provided a strong performance-per-dollar ratio and became popular in the tuning community.
Key Features:
Distinctive styling, available turbocharged engines, optional all-wheel drive, front-wheel-drive options, a strong aftermarket support base, and a relatively affordable entry point into performance motoring.
Manual Benefits:
Provides detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, and technical specifications, making it suitable for both novice DIYers and experienced professional mechanics. Enables cost-effective vehicle maintenance and repair.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System, Fuel System, Emission Control Systems, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Drive Shafts, Differential Case Assembly, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle System, Brake System, Suspension Systems (Front & Rear), Steering System, Power Steering, Body Repair, Interior Components, Exterior Components, HVAC System, Electrical System, Wiring Diagrams, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Audio & Visual System, Lighting System, Wiper & Washer System, Combination Meter
Body And Chassis:
Covers body panel alignment, door and latch mechanisms, glass replacement, bumper repair, rust prevention, and interior trim removal/installation.
Electrical System Coverage:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including starter, alternator, battery, lighting, power accessories, and the engine control unit (ECU). Detailed wiring diagrams are included for accurate troubleshooting and repair.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Step-by-step Repair Procedures, Component Disassembly and Reassembly, Adjustments, Specifications, Torque Values, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Harness Repair, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Brake Service, Suspension and Steering Alignment, Air Conditioning Servicing, Body Panel Repair, Safety System Servicing
Procedures Included Detail:
Includes detailed procedures for engine timing belt replacement (critical for 4G63), turbocharger system diagnosis and repair, intercooler maintenance, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, spark plug indexing, valve adjustment, transmission clutch inspection and replacement, CV axle boot replacement, brake caliper and rotor service, shock absorber and strut replacement, power steering system flushing, HVAC system component diagnosis (blower motor, evaporator, condenser), and comprehensive electrical troubleshooting using factory wiring diagrams.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes on-board diagnostic (OBD-I for early models) codes, troubleshooting flowcharts for various symptoms, and methods for testing sensors, actuators, and control modules. Specific procedures for engine sputtering, misfires, no-start conditions, and electrical faults are detailed.
Suspension And Steering Service:
Includes alignment specifications, replacement procedures for struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, and power steering pump and rack.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and factory specifications.
Primary Engine Options:
4G63 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged I4 (Eclipse GS-T, Talon TSi), 4G64 2.4L SOHC I4 (Eclipse ES, Talon DL), 6A12 2.0L V6 SOHC (Eclipse GSX, Talon TSi AWD - some markets/later years), 420A 2.5L DOHC I4 (Eclipse RS, Talon DL - Chrysler engine)
Performance Highlights:
Turbocharged engines offered significant power for their class (e.g., 4G63T producing approx. 205-210 hp), while naturally aspirated engines provided adequate performance for daily driving.
Horsepower Torque Range:
Naturally aspirated models: approx. 135-150 hp. Turbocharged models: approx. 205-210 hp (stock). V6 models: approx. 185-200 hp.
Engine Cooling System:
Pressurized system with a radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, and coolant reservoir. The manual covers system flushing, leak detection, and component replacement (radiator, hoses, thermostat, water pump).
Turbocharger System:
Details for Garrett turbochargers (on 4G63T) or Mitsubishi-specific turbos. Includes diagnosis of wastegate operation, boost leaks, and turbocharger lubrication.
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for most variants; turbocharged models featured robust fuel delivery systems designed for higher performance.
Fuel Pump And Injector Service:
Procedures for testing fuel pressure, replacing fuel pump and fuel filter, and diagnosing/cleaning/replacing fuel injectors are comprehensively covered.
Engine Codes Covered:
4G63, 4G64, 6A12, 420A
Service Intervals:
The manual details recommended intervals for oil changes (e.g., every 3,750-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions), coolant flushes (e.g., every 30,000 miles), spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement (critical for 4G63, typically every 60,000-90,000 miles), and brake fluid changes.
Timing Belt Replacement Intervals:
Crucial for 4G63 and 4G64 engines. Recommended interval is typically 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years, whichever comes first. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Specification:
Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 API Service SG or higher. Check manual for specific viscosity and API rating based on climate. For turbocharged engines, synthetic oil is highly recommended.
Coolant Specification:
Mitsubishi DiaQueen Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Manual: SAE 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil. Automatic: Mitsubishi DiaQueen ATF SP-II or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Clutch Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Differential Fluid Specification:
Manual Transaxle/AWD: SAE 75W-90 GL-5 for front differential, and often GL-5 for rear limited-slip differential if equipped. Check specific model/year for variations.
Common Issues Addressed:
Turbocharger wear and failure (especially on high-mileage or heavily modified cars), clutch wear, EGR valve issues, oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, differential seal leaks, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), and electrical gremlins are commonly addressed in detailed troubleshooting sections.
Brand Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a history of producing sporty and technologically advanced vehicles, including rally-bred performance cars like the Lancer Evolution, which shares heritage with the 4G63 engine found in these models.
Model Evolution:
The first generation Eclipse/Talon (1990-1994) established the platform. The second generation (1995-1999) introduced significant styling changes and further refined the powertrain options, including the widely acclaimed 4G63T engine.
Trim Levels And Variants:
Covered trims include: Eclipse RS, GS, GS-T, GSX. Talon DL, ES, ESi, TSi. The GS-T and TSi featured turbocharged engines, while GSX and TSi AWD featured AWD. RS and DL were typically base models with naturally aspirated engines.
Engine Development:
The 4G63 engine, particularly its turbocharged variants, is legendary for its robustness and tuning potential, making these cars a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Production Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996. This manual specifically covers the first generation and early second generation models.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily by Diamond-Star Motors, a joint venture between Chrysler and Mitsubishi)