Vehicle Class:
Body-on-frame SUV, often referred to as a 'sport utility vehicle' or 'off-roader'
Target Audience:
Families, adventure enthusiasts, off-roaders, towing needs
Key Competitors 1998:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder
Unique Selling Points:
Robust chassis, available Super Select 4WD-II system, powerful V6 engine options, significant towing capacity, off-road prowess.
Body Styles:
3-door (short wheelbase) and 5-door (long wheelbase) configurations.
Offroad Capabilities:
Body-on-frame construction, available locking differentials, generous ground clearance, optional Super Select 4WD-II system with various modes (2H, 4H, 4HLC, 4LLC).
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine electrical, engine performance diagnostics, timing belt/chain replacement.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (G520, G522), Automatic transmission (V5A51), transfer case (4WD system components like lock-up, differential locks), front and rear axles, propeller shafts, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Independent front suspension (double wishbone), multi-link rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, steering gearbox, power steering system, steering column.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (market dependent), ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), dashboard indicators, fuses and relays, wiring diagrams for all major systems, body control module (BCM) where applicable.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant R134a, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module.
Body Chassis:
Frame construction, body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, body sealing, corrosion protection.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), coolant flush and fill, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, exhaust system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II where applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies, including torque specifications.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostics, specifications, and repair procedures for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code Gasoline V6:
6G72 (3.0L SOHC V6), 6G74 (3.5L SOHC V6)
Engine Code Diesel:
4D56 (2.5L Turbo Diesel - less common in North America)
3.0L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 144-155 hp (market dependent)
3.5L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 195-205 hp (market dependent)
3.0L V6 Torque:
Approx. 170-180 lb-ft (market dependent)
3.5L V6 Torque:
Approx. 220-230 lb-ft (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane for optimal performance in 3.5L)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval 3.0L:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical to follow, interference engine)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval 3.5L:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical to follow, interference engine)
Spark Plug Type:
Iridium or Platinum tipped recommended for longevity (refer to manual for exact part numbers)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (G520/G522)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (V5A51)
4Wd System:
Part-time 4WD or full-time 4WD with Super Select 4WD-II system (on higher trims/markets), includes various modes and locking differentials.
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for exact capacity and type)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Diaqueen SP-III or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for exact capacity and type)
Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.4 inches (2780 mm)
Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:
Approx. 100.2 inches (2545 mm)
Length Long Wheelbase:
Approx. 188.0 inches (4775 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.1 - 70.1 inches (1705 - 1780 mm) (varies with roof rails/options)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,200 - 4,700 lbs (1900 - 2130 kg) (varies by configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) (check specific vehicle configuration and local regulations)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.3 inches (210 mm)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 1 year (inspect more frequently)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Not standard on this generation, but aftermarket available.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 24,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for seasonal recommendations)
Coolant Spec:
Mitsubishi Long Life Coolant (LLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with demineralized water (50/50 mix). Check manual for capacity.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (check manual for specific type)
Common Issue 3.0L V6:
Head gasket leaks, valve stem seals, intake manifold gasket leaks, distributor issues.
Common Issue 3.5L V6:
Idling issues, potential oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan, crank position sensor failure.
Common Issue Drivetrain:
Transfer case actuator failure (on some electronic systems), CV joint wear, differential bearing noise.
Common Issue Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, sway bar links, and shock absorbers are common due to vehicle age and use.
Common Issue Brakes:
Rotor warping (especially front), seized caliper pins, rear brake shoe adjustment issues.
Mitsubishi Motors History:
Mitsubishi Motors is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, part of the Mitsubishi Group, with a long history in vehicle production dating back to the early 20th century. Known for robust engineering and off-road capability.
Montero Generation 2.5:
The 1998 Montero is part of the second generation (1991-1999, with a facelift in 1997). This generation saw significant updates including new engines, refined suspension, and improved styling. Known domestically as the Mitsubishi Pajero.
Production Plant:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Years Second Gen:
1991-1999 (facelifted model from 1997)