Positioning:
The 1992 Mitsubishi Montero (also known as Pajero in many markets) was a significant player in the burgeoning SUV market, offering a blend of off-road capability, ruggedness, and surprising comfort. It competed with vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Jeep Cherokee.
Strengths:
Renowned for its robust chassis (often with leaf springs in the rear on earlier models, evolving towards coil springs), capable 4WD system (Super Select or Easy Select), and reliable V6 engine. Its body-on-frame construction provided excellent durability.
Off Road Features:
Available with a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system (often selectable), locking differentials (optional), and good ground clearance, making it a competent off-road vehicle.
Powertrain Options:
Primarily offered with the 3.0L V6 gasoline engine, known for its smoothness and adequate power for its class.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control, starting system, charging system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (manual and automatic), transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differentials, wheel hubs.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, body electrical components (wipers, horn, power windows/locks if equipped), ECU/PCM troubleshooting.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, body sealing.
Troubleshooting And Diagnostics:
General diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, specific component testing.
Estimated Pages:
~1500-2000 (typical for a complete factory-style service manual)
Type:
Comprehensive Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF) or Printed
All Systems:
Covers all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems of the 1992 Mitsubishi Montero.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component R&R.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic flowcharts, trouble code explanations (OBD-I for this era), component testing procedures, multimeter usage, wiring diagram interpretation.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing specifications, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Extensive technical depth, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed disassembly, assembly, adjustment, and troubleshooting for most vehicle components.
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and text. May be layered for clarity.
Printed Quality:
High-quality printing on durable paper for longevity in workshop environments. Clear, legible text and sharp diagrams.
Printed Binding:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop.
Printed Paper:
Heavyweight paper stock, resistant to grease and moisture.
Engine Type:
6G72 V6 SOHC MPI
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2972 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 76.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC, 12 Valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower Net:
~145-155 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm (depending on specific market and emissions calibration)
Torque Net:
~170-180 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (depending on specific market and emissions calibration)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher may be specified by Mitsubishi)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.9 Quarts (7.5 Liters)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 Quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 (check manual for specific temperature ranges)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based, with electronic spark control)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (R5F51)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (V4A51)
4Wd System:
Mitsubishi 'Easy Select' or 'Super Select' 4WD System (depending on trim/market). Super Select offers 2WD, 4H, 4HLC (with center diff lock), and 4LLC (with center diff lock and low range).
Gear Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 Liters (5.3 Pints)
Gear Oil Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (9.0 Quarts) for full service
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-III or equivalent ATF
Wheelbase:
Short Wheelbase (SWB): 93.3 in (2370 mm); Long Wheelbase (LWB): 109.0 in (2770 mm)
Length:
SWB: ~164.0 in (4165 mm); LWB: ~178.0 in (4520 mm) (approximate, varies by body style)
Width:
~66.5 in (1690 mm)
Height:
~65.0 - 67.0 in (1650 - 1700 mm) (depending on roof type and suspension)
Curb Weight:
~3800 - 4500 lbs (1724 - 2041 kg) (highly variable by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5500-6000 lbs (2495-2722 kg)
NHTSA Rating 1992:
No specific NHTSA ratings readily available for this model year, as testing standards and reporting were different. However, it was generally considered a robust vehicle.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes; Rear: Drum Brakes (or optional Rear Disc Brakes on higher trims). ABS was often optional or standard on higher trims.
Antilock Brakes:
Optional or standard on select trims (ABS).
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts. Shoulder belts for front occupants.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag was optional or standard on some higher trims.
Audio System:
Typically featured an AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Optional CD changer might be available on higher trims or aftermarket.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims.
Vehicle Diagnostics:
Utilized an OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) system, typically accessed via a diagnostic connector for reading trouble codes.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (typical for this era, check manual for exact recommendation)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (platinum plugs may extend this)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months; Manual: Every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron-II/III or specific power steering fluid (check manual)
Engine Mounts:
Aging engine mounts can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Exhaust System:
Rust and corrosion can affect exhaust components over time, especially in humid or coastal climates.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings can cause clunks, poor handling, and premature tire wear.
4Wd Actuation:
Issues with the vacuum or electronic actuators for the 4WD system can occur, requiring diagnostic attention.
Radiator And Hoses:
Aging cooling system components (radiator, hoses) are prone to leaks and failure.
Mitsubishi Heritage:
Mitsubishi has a long history of producing rugged and capable vehicles, particularly in the off-road and utility segments, dating back to early truck and military vehicle production.
Montero Gen2:
The 1992 model year falls within the second generation of the Montero/Pajero (1991-1999). This generation saw significant upgrades in styling, comfort, and powertrain compared to the first generation, while retaining its off-road prowess. It introduced more aerodynamic styling and a more refined interior.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
Off Road Awards:
The Montero/Pajero platform has a strong reputation in off-road events and accolades, though specific awards for the 1992 model year might be less documented than modern vehicles.
Consumer Reports Historical:
Historically, Mitsubishi SUVs from this era often received mixed reviews in consumer reports, with praise for off-road capability and durability but sometimes criticized for fuel economy or interior refinement compared to competitors.