
GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE l-9 
Fig. 27 A click type or breakaway torque 
wrench-note that this one has a pivoting 
head 
v 
WRONG WRONG 
PIVOTED HANDLE TOR(IUE WRENCH tccS1041 Fig. 28 Torque wrenches with pivoting 
heads must be grasped and used properly 
to prevent an incorrect reading 
Rigid Case (Direct Reading) 
# See Figure 29 
A rigid case or direct reading torque wrench is 
equipped with a dial indicator to show torque values. 
One advantage of these wrenches is that they can be 
held at any position on the wrench without affecting 
accuracy. These wrenches are often preferred be- 
cause they tend to be compact, easy to read and have 
a great degree of accuracy. 
lccs1042 Fig. 29 The rigid case (direct reading) 
torque wrench uses a dial indicator to show 
torque 
TORQUEANGLEMETERS 
# See Figure 30 
Because the frictional characteristics of each fas- 
tener or threaded hole will vary, clamp loads which 
are based strictly on torque will vary as well. In most 
applications, this variance IS not significant enough 
to cause worry. But, in certain applications, a manu- 
facturers engineers may determine that more precise 
clamp loads are necessary (such is the case with :ig. 30 Some specifications require the use 
rf a torque angle meter (mechanical pro. 
ractor) 
many aluminum cylinder heads). In these cases, a 
torque angle method of installation would be speci- 
fied. When installing fasteners which are torque angle 
tightened, a predetermined seating torque and stan- dard torque wrench are usually used first to remove 
any compliance from the joint. The fastener is then 
tightened the specified additional portion of a turn 
measured in degrees. A torque angle gauge (mechan- 
ical protractor) is used for these applications. 
) See Figure 31 
Throughout this manual, specifications are given to 
help you determine the condition of various compo- 
nents on your vehicle, or to assist you in their installa- 
tion. Some of the most common measurements in- 
clude length (in. or cm/mm), torque (ft. Ibs., inch Ibs. 
or Nm) and pressure (psi, in. Hg, kPa or mm Hg). In 
most cases, we strive to provide the proper measure- 
ment as determined by the manufacturers engineers. 
Though, in some cases, that value may not be con- 
veniently measured with what is available in your 
toolbox. Luckily, many of the measuring devices 
CONVERSION FACTORS 
LENGTH-DISTANCE Inches (I”.) x 25.4 = Millimeters (mm) x .0394 = Inches 
Feet (ft.) x ,305 
= Meters (m) x 3.281 = Feet 
Miles x 1.609 = Kilometers (km) x .0621 
= Miles 
VOLUME Cubic Inches (in3) x 16.387 = Cubic Centimeters x .061 = in3 
IMP Pints (IMP pt.) x .568 = Liters (L) x 1.76 
= IMP pt. 
IMP Quarts (IMP qt.) x 1.137 = Liters (L) x .88 = IMP qt. 
IMP Gallons (IMP gal.) x 4.546 = Liters (L) 7, .22 
= IMP gal. 
IMP Quarts (IMP qt ) x 1.201 = US Quarts (US qt.) x ,833 = IMP qt. 
IMP Gallons (IMP gal.) x 1.201 
= US Gallons (US gal.) x ,833 
= IMP gal. 
Fl. Ounces x 29.573 = Millihters x 034 
= Ounces 
us Pints (Us pt.) x ,473 = Liters (L) x 2.113 = Pints 
US Quarts (US qt.) x .946 = Liters (L) x 1.057 
= Quarts 
US Gallons (US gal.) x 3.785 = Liters (L) x ,264 = Gallons 
MASS-WEIGHT 
Ounces (oz.) x 28.35 
= Grams (g) x ,035 
= Ounces 
Pounds (lb ) x ,454 = Kdograms (kg) x 2.205 
= Pounds 
PRESSURE ’ Pounds Per Sq. In. (psi) x 6.895 = Kilopascals (kPa) x ,145 = psi 
Inches of Mercury (Hg) x .4912 
= psi x 2.036 = Hg 
Inches of Mercury (Hg) x 3.377 = Kilopascals (kPa) x .2961 
= Hg 
Inches of Water (H,O) 
x .07355 = Inches of Mercury x 13 783 = H,O 
Inches of Water (H,O) x .03613 = psi x 27.684 
= Hz0 
Inches of Water (H,O) x ,248 
= Kilopascals (kPa) x4026 
= H,O 
TORQUE Pounds-Force Inches (in-lb) 
x ,113 = Newton Meters (N.m) x 8.85 = in-lb 
Pounds-Force Feet (ft-lb) 
x 1.356 = Newton Meters (N*m) x ,738 = ft-lb 
VELOCITY Miles Per Hour (MPH) 
x 1.609 = Kilometers Per Hour (KPH) x .621 = MPH POWER Horsepower (Hp) x ,745 = Kdowatts x 1.34 
= Horsepower FUEL CONSUMPTION’ Mdes Per Gallon IMP (MPG) x .354 
= Kilometers Per Liter (Km/L) 
Kilometers Per Liter (Km/L) 
x 2.352 = IMP MPG 
Miles Per Gallon US (MPG) x ,425 
= Kilometers Per Liter (Km/L) 
Kdometers Per Liter (Km/L) x 2.352 
= US MPG 
*It 1s common to covert from miles per gallon (mpg) to hters/lOO kilometers (l/100 km), where mpg (IMP) x l/ID0 km 
= 282 and mpg (US) x l/lo0 km = 235. 
TEMPERATURE Degree Fahrenheit CF) = (“C x 1.8) + 32 
Degree Celsms (‘C) 
= CF - 32) x 56 
tccsio4d 
Fig. 31 Standard and metric conversion factors chart  

. 
l-10 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
which are available today will have two scales so the 
The conversion factor chart is used by taking the 
Standard or Metric measurements may easily be given specification and multiplying it by the neces- 
taken. If any of the various measuring tools which are sary conversion factor. For instance, looking at the 
available to you do not contain the same scale as first line, if you have a measurement in inches such 
listed in the specifications, use the accompanying 
as “free-play should be 2 in.” but your ruler reads 
conversion factors to determine the proper value. only in millimeters, multiply 2 in. by the conversion factor of 25.4 to get the metric equivalent of 50.8mm. 
Likewise, if the specification was given only in a Met- 
ric measurement, for example in Newton Meters 
(Nm), then look at the center column first. If the mea- 
surement is 100 Nm, multiply it by the conversion 
factor of 0.738 to get 73.8 ft. Ibs. 
b See Figures 32,33, and 34 
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located 
on a plate which is attached to the left top side of the 
instrument panel. These numbers are visible from the 
outside of the vehicle. All Vehicle Identification Num- 
bers contain 17 digits. The vehicle number is a code 
which tells country, make, vehicle type, engine, body 
and many other important characteristics of that spe- 
cific vehicle. 
There is also a vehicle information code plate 
which is riveted to the bulkhead in the engine com- 
partment. The plate shows the VIN, model code, en- 
gine model, transaxle model and body color codes. 
The engine code used on this plate differs from the 
code letter used in the 8th position of the Vehicle 
Identification Number (VIN). Either code can be used 
to identify the particular engine in the vehicle. Since 
the vehicle owners card is usually carried, it may be if the engine is equipped with a turbocharger. If the 
8th VIN number is a U, there is no doubt that the en- 
gine in question is a 2.OL DOHC engine equipped 
with a turbocharger. 
The engine codes found on the vehicle information 
code plate are as follows: 
l 4G15--1.5L SOHC engine l 4G61-1.6L DOHC engine l 4G93-1.8L SOHC engine l 4G63-2.OL (SOHC or DOHC) engine l 4G64-2.4L (SOHC or DOHC) engine l 6G72-3.OL (SOHC or DOHC) engine l 6G74-3.5L DOHC engine 
A vehicle safety certification label is attached to 
the face of the left door pillar post. This label indi- 
cates the month and year of manufacture, Gross Ve- 
hicle Weight Rating (GRVW) front and rear, and Ve- 
hicle Identification Number (VIM). 4 character code as on the vehicle information code 
plate is used. The engine serial number is also 
stamped near the engine model number. As men- 
tioned above, the engine can also be identified by the 
8th digit in the VIN number. 
The transaxle model code is located on the vehicle 
information code plate. The transaxle identification 
number is etched on a boss located on the front up- 
per portion of the case. 
The code for the drive axle is etched on a boss lo- 
cated on the case of the differential carrier. 
easier to use the code letter in the VIN for engine ref- 
erence. A second reason for referring to the VIN for 
engine identification is that code 4663, located on 
the vehicle information code plate, does identify the 
engine as a 2.OL DOHC engine, but does not tell you ) See Figure 35 
The engine model number is stamped at the front 
side on the top edge of the cylinder block. The same 
Fig. 32 The Vehicle Identification Number 
g3’51p’o  of the instrument panel _I:^1 / Fig. 33 The vehicle model, engine model, 
(VIN) plate is attached to the top left side 
bansaxle model, and body color code are all 
noted on the vehicle information code plate 
ENGINE AND VEHiCLE IDENTlFlCATlON 
EnglnCode 
ModelYerr 
todeal 
LIten (cc) 
Cu. In. W. Fuel+ Type m.hWg. Code@ Year ,G15JA 1.5 (1468) 92 4 MFI SOHC Mitsubishi 
L 1990 
IG61N 1.6(15QQ) 98 4 MFI DOHC 
Mitsubishi M 1991 
1G93lC 1.8 (1834) 112 4 MFI SOHC Mitsubishi N 1992 
IG63N 2.0 (1997) 122 4 MFI SOHC “-Mitsubishi P 
1993 
!G63Fi 2.0 (1997) 122 4 MFI DOHC Mitsubishi 
R 1994 
,G63iU 2.0 (1997) 122 4 MFI-Tuibo DOHC Mitsubishi 
S 1995 
.GMffi 2.4 (2351) 143 4 MFI SOHC 
Mitsubishi T 1996 
iG64L 2.4 (2351) 143 4 MFI DOHC Mitsubishi V 
lEzH 3.0 1997 
(2972) 161 6 MFI SOHC Mitsubishi W  1998 
;G7ZJ 3.0 (2Q72) 161 6 MFI GQHC Mitsubishi 
~.. X 1999 
iG7zL 3.0 (2972) 181 
~  6 MFI SOHC ___-___  Miisubishi 
Y 2000 
iG74lP 3.5 (3497) 213 6 MFI SOHC Miisubishi 
The transfer case has no separate model code, the 
code is located on the transaxle. The transfer case is 
onlv eoUiODed on manual transaxle All Wheel Drive 
(AWD)‘mbdels. 
Fig. 34 Your car should have a vehicle 
Fig. 35 Engine model number location- 
4663 (2.OL) engine shown  

l-22 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
tears. If the boot is damaged, it should be replaced 
trode is to the block’s cooling passages) the cooler it 
your driving is long distance, high speed travel, use a 
immediately. Please refer to Section 7 for procedures. 
will operate. A plug that absorbs little heat and re- 
colder plug; if most of your driving is stop and go, 
mains too cool will quickly accumulate deposits of 
use a hotter plug. Original equipment plugs are gen- 
oil and carbon since it is not hot enough to burn 
erally a good compromise between the 2 styles and 
them off. This leads to plug fouling and consequently 
most people never have the need to change their 
to misfiring. A plug that absorbs too much heat will 
plugs from the factory-recommended heat range. 
ti See Figure 88 have no deposits but, due to the excessive heat, the 
,electrodes will burn away quickly and might possibly 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 
A typical spark plug consists of a metal shell sur- lead to preignition or other ignition problems. Preig- 
rounding a ceramic insulator. A metal electrode ex- nition takes place when plug tips get so hot that they 
ti See Figures 90 thru 95 
tends downward through the center of the insulator glow sufficiently to ignite the air/fuel mixture before 
and protrudes a small distance. Located at the end of the actual spark occurs. This early ignition will usu- A set of spark plugs usually requires replacement 
the plug and attached to the side of the outer metal ally cause a pinging during low speeds and heavy after about 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 
shell is the side electrode. The side electrode bends loads. km), depending on your style of driving. In normal 
in at a 90” angle so that its tip is just past and paral- The general rule of thumb for choosing the correct operation plug gap increases about 0.001 in. 
lel to the tio of the center electrode. The distance be- heat range when picking a spark plug is: if most of (0.025mrn) for every 2,500 miles 
(4,000 km). As the 
tween these two electrodes (measured in thousandths 
of an inch or hundredths of a millimeter) is called the 
spark piug gap. 
The spark plug does not produce a spark, but in- 
steed provides a gap across which the current can 
arc. The coil produces anywhere from 20,000 to 
50,000 volts (depending on the type and application) 
which travels through the wires to the spark plugs. 
The current passes along the center electrode and 
jumps the gap to the side electrode, and in doing so, 
ignites the air/fuel mixture in the combustion charn- 
ber. 
SPARKPLUG HEATRANGE 
ti See Figure 89 
Spark plug heat range is the ability of the plug to 
dissipate heat. The longer the insulator (or the farther 
INSULATOR CRACKS 
OFTEN OCCUR HERE 
SIDE ELECTRODE ENTER ELECTRODE: 
(SEND TO ADJUST GAP) FILE FLAT WHEN 
ADJUSTING GAP; 
DO NOT BEND 
Fig. 88 Cross-section of a spark plug 
it extends into the engine), the hotter the plug will 
operate; the shorter the insulator (the closer the elec- Fig. 90 Carefully twist the boot end of the 
I 
spark plug wire and withdraw the spark plug 
wire boot from the cylinder head 
Fig. 92 A locking extension such as this is 
extremely helpful when removing spark 
plugs that are centrally located in the cyhn- 
Fig. 94 . . . 
then carefully withdraw the 
spark plug from the engine Fig. 91 A special spark plug socket with a 
rubber insert is required to remove the 
spark plugs. Typically the spark plugs 
re- 
quire a Ya spark plug socket 
Fig, 93 Using the appropriate sized spark 
plug socket, necessary extensions and drive 
tools, loosen the spark plug . . . 
93151ptxl Fig. 95 After removing the plug from the en- 
gine, inspect it using the spark plug condi- 
tion chart in this section to determine the 
running condition of your engine  

t 
GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE l-23 
gap increases, the plug’s voltage requirement also in- 
creases. It requires a greater voltage to jump the the spark plug counterclockwise to loosen and re- 
move the spark plug from the bore. 
wider gap and about &o to three times as much volt- 
age to fire the plug at high speeds than at idle. The 
improved air/fuel ratio control of modern fuel injec- 
tion combined with the higher voltage output of mod- Be sure not to use a flexible extension on the place. The click may be felt or heard, then gently pull 
ern ignition systems will often allow an engine to run socket. Use of a flexible extension may allow back on the boot to assure proper contact. 
.___. . _ 
significantly longer on a set of standard spark plugs, a shear force to be agptf’ ea to me plug. 
A 12. On the 3.OL fSOHC and DOHC) and 3.5L en- 
LL_ _I___ -u I_ IL- 
but keep in mind that efficiency will drop as the gap shear force could break tne pug on III me 
tion 3 for the installation procedure. 
widens (along with fuel economy and power). cylinder head, leading to costly and frustrat- 
13. If equipped, install the center cover. 
When you’re removing spark plugs, work on one ing repairs. 
at a time. Don’t start by removing the plug wires all at 
once, because, unless you number them, they may To install: 
INSPECTION & GAPPING 
11. Apply a small amount of silicone dielectric 
compound to the end of the spark plug lead or inside 
the spark plug boot to prevent sticking, then install 
the boot to the spark plug and push until it clicks into 
gines, install the upper intake manifold. Refer to Sec- 
,,Y” ..1111 uy”’ 1 the neaative bat&v cable and if  become mixed up. Take a minute before you begin 
and number the wrrpc with +sne 
1. Disconnect. ~~.~ 
--..-., -..-.-, -..- 
thevehicle has been run recently, allow the engine to 
thoroughly cool. 
2. If equipped, remove the center cover. 
3. On the 3.OL (SOHC and DOHC) and 3.5L en- 
gines, the upper intake manifold must be removed to 
access the rear spark plugs. Refer to Section 3 for the 
removal procedure. 
4. Carefully twist the spark plug wire boot to 
loosen it, then pull upward and remove the boot from 
the plug. Be sure to pull on the boot and not on the 
wire, otherwise the connector located inside the boot 
may become separated. 
5. Using compressed air, blow any water or de- 
bris from the spark plug well to assure that no harm- 
ful contaminants are allowed to enter the combustion 
chamber when the spark plug is removed. If com- 
pressed air is not available, use a raa or a brush to must be replaced. 
Check the plugs for deposits and wear, If they are  7. Inspect the spark plug boot for tears or dam- 
age. If.a damaged boot is found, the spark plug wire 
8. Using a wire feelergauge, check and adjust 
the spark plug gap. When using a gauge, the proper 
size should pass between the electrodes with a slight 
drag. The next larger size should not be able to pass 
while the next smaller size should pass freely. 
9. Carefully thread the plug into the bore by 
hand. If resistance is felt before the plug is almost 
completely threaded, back the plug out and begin 
threading again. In small, hard to reach areas, an old 
spark plug wire and boot could be used as a thread- 
ing tool. The boot will hold the plug while you twist 
the end of the wire and the wire is supple enough to 
twist before it would allow the plug to crossthread. 
Do not use the spark plug sock? 
l -- K-rrA tha nhme Alwmm rarntdlv thw GL I” IlllGa” 
the possibility of crossthreading and damag-  lad the plug 
. ..Y f..“YY. rn”Y,‘““mY*“.‘, .I**” by hand or using an old plug wire to prevent 
ing the cylinder head bore. 
10. Carefully tighten the spark plug. If the plug 
you are installing is equipped with a crush washer, 
seat the plug, then tighten about I/, turn to crush the 
washer. If you are installing a tapered seat plug, 
tighten the plug to specifications provided by the ve- 
hicle or plug manufacturer. b See Figures 98, 97, 98, 99, and 100 
not going to be replaced, clean the plugs thoroughly. 
Remember that any kind of deposit will decrease the 
efficiency of the plug. Plugs can be cleaned on a 
spark plug cleaning machine, which can sometimes 
be found in service stations, or you can do an accept- 
able job of cleaning with a stiff brush. If the plugs are’ 
cleaned, the electrodes must be filed flat. Use an ig- 
nition points file, not an emery board or the like, 
which will leave deposits. The electrodes must be 
filed perfectly flat with sharp edges; rounded edges 
reduce the spark plug voltage by as much as 50%. 
Check spark plug gap before installation. The 
ground electrode (the L-shaped one connected to the 
body of the plug) must be parallel to the center elec- 
trode and the specified size wire gauge (please refer 
to the Tune-Up Specifications chart for details) must 
pass between the electrodes with a slight drag: 
*,NEVER adjust the gap on a used platinum 
.  clean the area. 
*Remove the spark plugs when the engine 
is cold, if possible, to prevent damage to the 
threads. If removal of the plugs is difficult, 
apply a few drops of penetrating oil or sili- 
cone spray to the area around the base of the 
plug, and allow it a few minutes to work. 
6. Using a spark plug socket that is equipped 
with a rubber insert to properly hold the plug, turn type spark plug. 
Always check the gap on new plugs as they are 
not always set correctly at the factory. Do not use a 
flat feeler gauge when measuring the gap on a used 
plug, because the reading may be inaccurate. A 
round-wire type gapping tool is the best way to check 
the gap. The correct gauge should pass through the 
electrode gap with a slight drag. If you’re in doubt, try 
one size smaller and one laraer. The smaller aauqe  

. 
1-32 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
CONDITION 
EFFECT 
CAUSE 
CORRECTION UNDER-INFLATION 
EXCESSIVE SPEED’ WORN OR OUT- 
OF-ALIGNMENT 
ADJUST PRESSURE TO 
SPECIFICATIONS WHEN 
TIRES ARE COOL 
ROTATE TIRES 
/ BALANCE WHEELS INSPECT SUSPENSION 
HAVE TIRE INSPECTED FOR FURTHER USE. 
lCCSi267 ig. 144 Common tire wear patterns and causes 
1~~~1265 Fig. 145 Tread wear indicators will appear 
when the tire is worn 
inflation, do not drive more than a mile before check- 
ing. A cold tire is generally one that has not been dri- 
ven for more than three hours. 
A plate or sticker is normally provided somewhere 
in the vehicle (door post, hood, tailgate or trunk lid) 
which shows the proper pressure for the tires. Never 
counteract excessive pressure build-up by bleeding 
off air pressure (letting some air out). This will cause 
the tire to run hotter and wear quicker. 
Never exceed the maximum tire pressure 
embossed on the tire! This is the pressure to 
be used when the tire is at maximum load- 
ing, but it is rarely the correct pressure for 
everyday driving. Consult the owner’s man- 
ual or the tire pressure sticker for the correct 
tire pressure. 
Once you’ve maintained the correct tire pressures 
for several weeks, you’ll be familiar with the vehicle’s 
braking and handling personality. Slight adjustments 
in tire pressures can fine-tune these characteristics, 
1~~~1264 Fig. 146 Accurate tread depth indicators are 
inexuensive and handv 
Fig. 147 A penny works well for a quick 
check of tread death 
but never change the cold pressure specification by 
more than 2 psi. A slightly softer tire pressure will 
give a softer ride but also yield lower fuel mileage. A 
slightly harder tire will give crisper dry road handling 
but can cause skidding on wet surfaces. Unless 
you’re fully attuned to the vehicle, stick to the recom- 
mended inflation pressures. 
All tires made since 1968 have built-in tread wear 
indicator bars that show up as j/2 in. (13mm) wide 
smooth bands across the bre when V,~ in. (1.5mm) of 
tread remains. The appearance of tread wear indica- 
tors means that the tires should be replaced. In fact, 
many states have laws prohibiting the use of tires 
with less than this amount of tread. 
You can check your own tread depth with an inex- 
pensive gauge or by using a Lincoln head penny. 
Shp the Lrncoln penny (with Lincoln’s head upside- down) into several tread grooves. If you can see the 
top of Lincoln’s head in 2 adjacent grooves, the tire 
has less than V,~ in. (1.5mm) tread left and should be 
replaced. You can measure snow tires in the same 
manner by using the “tails” side of the Lincoln 
penny. If you can see the top of the Lincoln memor- 
ial, its time to replace the snow tire(s). 
CAREOFSPECIALWHEELS 
If you have invested money in magnesium, alu- 
minum alloy or sport wheels, special precautions 
should be taken to make sure your investment is not 
wasted and that your special wheels look good for the 
life of the vehicle. 
Special wheels are easily damaged and/or 
scratched. Occasionally check the rims for cracking, 
impact damage or air leaks. If any of these are found, 
replace the wheel. But in order to prevent this type of 
damage and the costly replacement of a special 
wheel, observe the following precautions: 
l Use extra care not to damage the wheels dur- 
ing removal, installation, balancing, etc. After re- 
moval of the wheels from the vehicle, place them on a 
mat or other protective surface. If they are to be 
stored for any length of time, support them on strips 
of wood. Never store tires and wheels upright; the 
tread may develop flat spots. 
l When driving, watch for hazards; it doesn’t take 
much to crack a wheel. 
l When washing, use a mild soap or non-abra- 
sive dish detergent (keeping in mind that detergent 
tends to remove wax). Avoid cleansers with abrasives 
or the use of hard brushes. There are many cleaners 
and polishes for special wheels. 
l If possrble, remove the wheels during the win- 
ter. Salt and sand used for snow removal can se- 
verely damage the finish of a wheel. 
l Make certain the recommended lug nut torque 
is never exceeded or the wheel may crack. Never use 
snow chains on special wheels; severe scratching 
will occur.  

GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANC-E 1133 
Used fluids such as engine oil, transaxle fluid, an- 
tifreeze and brake fluid are hazardous wastes and 
must be disposed of properly. Before draining any 
fluids, consult with your local authorities; in many ar- 
eas, waste oil, antifreeze, etc. is being accepted as a 
part of recycling programs. A number of service sta- 
tions and auto parts stores are also accepting waste 
fluids for recycling. 
Be sure of the recycling center’s policies before 
draining any fluids, as many will not accept different 
fluids that have been mixed together. 
ENGINE OIL 
6 See Figure 148 
WMitsubishi recommends that SAE 5W-30 
viscosity engine oil should be used for all clia 
mate conditions, however, SAE low-30 is ac 
ceptable for vehicles operated in moderate- 
to-hot climates. the SAE number, the lighter the oil; the lower the vis- 
cosity, the easier it is to crank the engine in cold 
weather but the less the oil will lubricate and protect 
the engine in high temperatures. This number is 
marked on every oil container. 
Oil viscosity’s should be chosen from those oils 
recommended for the lowest anticipated temperatures 
during the oil change interval. Due to the need for an 
oil that embodies both good lubrication at high tem- 
peratures and easy cranking in cold weather, multi- 
grade oils have been developed. Basically, a multi- 
grade oil is thinner at low temperatures and thicker at 
high temperatures. For example, a low-40 oil (the W 
stands for winter) exhibits the characteristics of a 10 
weight (SAE 10) oil when the car is first started and 
the oil is cold. Its lighter weight allows it to travel to 
the lubricating surfaces quicker and offer less resis- 
tance to starter motor cranking than, say, a straight 
30 weight (SAE 30) oil. But atier the ensine reaches 
operating temperature, the low-40 oil begins acting 
like straight 40 weight (SAE 40) oil, its heavier weight 
providing greater lubrication with less chance of 
foaming than a straight 30 weight oil. Synthetic oil is not for every car and every type of 
driving, so you should consider your engine’s condi- 
tion and your type of driving. Also, check your car’s 
warranty conditions regarding the use of synthetic oils. 
FUEL 
All models equipped with a SOHC (Single Over- 
head Camshaft) engine are designed to operate using 
regular unleaded fuel with a minimum of 87 octane. 
All models equipped with a DOHC (Dual Overhead 
Camshaft) engine are designed to operate using reg- 
ular unleaded fuel with a minimum of 91 octane. Mit- 
subishi warns that using gasoline with a lower octane 
rating can cause persistent and heavy knocking, and 
may cause internal engine damage. 
If your vehicle is having problems with rough idle 
or hesitation when the enoine is cold, it mav be 
caused by low volatility fuel. If this occurs, iry a dif- 
ferent grade or brand of fuel. 
'OPERATION 1~ FOREIGN COUNTRIES 
lccS1235 Fig. 148 look for the API oil identification 
Non-detergent motor oils or straight mineral 
label when choosing your enaine oil oils should not be used in your engine. 
When adding oil to the crankcase or changing the 
0 Nil or filter, it is important that oil of an equal quality 
I original equipment be used in your car. The use of 
. tc mtenor 011s may void the warranty, damage your en- 
gine, or both. __ 
The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) grade 
number of oil indicates the viscosity of the oil (its 
ability to lubricate at a given temperature). The lower 
Fig. 149 Grasp the oil level dipstick and pull 
upward to remove it from the dipstick 
tube 
The API (American Petroleum Institute) designa- 
tions, also found on the oil container, indicates the 
classification of engine oil used under certain given 
operating conditions. Only oils designated for use 
Service SJ heavy duty detergent should be used in 
your car. Oils of the SJ type perform may functions If you plan to drive your car outside the United 
States or Canada, there is a possibility that fuels will 
be too low in anti-knock quality and could produce 
engine damage. It is wise to consult with local au- 
thorities upon arrival in a foreign country to deter- 
mine the best fuels available. 
inside the engine besides their basic lubrication. 
Through a balanced system of metallic detergents 
and polymeric dispersants, the oil prevents high and 
low temperature deposits and also keeps sludge and 
dirt particles in suspension. Acids, particularly sulfu- 
OILLEVELCHECK ric acid, as well as other by-products of engine com- 
bustion are neutralized by the oil. If these acids are 
# See Figures 149, 150, and 151 
allowed to concentrate, thev can cause corrosion and  
rapid wear of the internal engine parts. 
Synthetic Oil 
There are many excellent synthetic and fuel-effi- 
cient oils currently available that can provide better 
gas mileage, longer service life and, in some cases, 
better engine protection. These benefits do not come 
without a few hitches, however; the main one being 
the price of synthetic oil, which is significantly more 
expensive than conventional oil. 
. 
The EPA warns that urolonoed contact with used engine oil ma; cause-a number of skin 
disorders, including cancer! You should 
make every effort to minimize your exposure 
to 
used engine oil. Protective gloves should 
be worn when changing the oil. Wash your 
hands and any other exposed skin areas as 
soon as possible after exposure to used en- 
gine oil. Soap and water, or waterless hand 
cleaner should be used. 
Fig. 150 Wipe the dipstick clean and rein- 
sert it into the dipstick 
tube to get the cor- 
rect oil level The engine oil dipstick is typically located in the 
Fig. 151 The oil level should be between the 
marks/notches on the dipstick  

. 
l-34 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
Engine oil level should be checked every time you 
put fuel in the vehicle or are under the hood perform- miles of highway driving. Fluid which is warmed to 
normal operating temperature will flow faster, drain 
ing other maintenance. 
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface. 
2. The enaine mav be either hot or cold when 
, if it is hot, wait a few min-  checking oil level. The EPA warns that prolonged contact with 
used engine oil may cause a num’ * * * 
dianrAnrr inrldinn ranrnrl V#lll more completely and remove more contaminants 
frnm tho clnnine 
utes after the engine has been turned OFF to allow the 
oil to drain back into the crankcase. If the engine is 
cold, do not start it before checking the oil level. point on the oil pan. If not, you may have to raise the 
vehicle slightly higher on one jackstand (side) than 
3. Open the hood and locate the engine oil dip- 
stick. Pull the dipstick from its tube, wipe it clean, 
and reinsert it. Make sure the diDstick is fullv in- 
serted. 
4. Pull the dipstick from its tube again. Holding it to used engin 
be worn whet 
handsandan 
so*m ..#a . . . . . 
IDer 01 SKlll u,yu,u=,+, ,,,u,uu,,,u uu,,u=, i , vu should 
uff art to minimize your exposure 
le oil. Protective gloves should 
1 changing the oil. Wash your 
y other exposed skin areas as 
111 aJ vv4ble after exposure to used en- 
m nil St-mn mwl w&or nr umtarlncr hand gin Y “II. ““up “ll” .,U.“I, “rn W.Y.“. .““I .I....” cleaner should be used. 
horizontally, read the oil level. The oilshould be be- 
tween the MIN and MAX marks or the notches on the 
dipstick. If the oil is below the MIN mark or lower 
notch, add oil of the proper viscosity through the 
capped opening of the valve cover. *The engine oil and oil filter should be 
changed at the recommended intervals on 
the Maintenance Chart. Though some manu- 
facturers have at times recommended chang- 
ing the filter only at every other oil change, ’ 
Chilton recommends that you always change 
ll”,,, Cl>” ““y”‘“. 1. Raise and support the vehicle safely on jack- 
stands. Make sure the oil drain olua is at the lowest 
the other. 
2. Before you crawl under the vehicle, take a look 
at where you will be working and gather all the nec- 
essary tools, such as a few wrenches or a ratchet and 
strip of sockets, the drain pan, some clean rags and, 
if the oil filter is more accessible from underneath the 
vehicle, you will also want to grab a bottle of oil, the 
new filter and a filter wrench at this time. 
5. Reolace the diostick. and check the level aaain 
. The benefit of fresh oil 
p See Figures 152 thru 153 
The oil and filter should be changed every 7,500 
miles (12,000 km) under normal service and every 
3,000 miles (5,000 km) under severe service. 
93151p-55 Fig. 152 loosen the drain plug on the en- 
a wrench. The drain plug’s 3. Position the drain pan beneath the oil pan 
drain plug. Keep in mind that the fast flowing oil, 
which will spill out as you pull the plug from the pan, 
will flow with enough force that it could miss the pan. 
Position the drain pan accordingly and be ready to 
move the pan more directly beneath the plug as the 
oil flow lessens to a trickle. 
4. Loosen the drain ~lua with a wrench (or socket 
and driver), then carefuliy unscrew the plug with your 
fingers. Use a rag to shield your fingers from the 
heat. Push in on the plug as you unscrew it so you 
draining the oil, make sure that the engine is at oper- can feel when all of the screw threads are out of the 
ating temperature. Hot oil will hold more impurities hole (and so you will keep the oil from seeping past 
in suspension and will flow better, allowing the re- the threads until you are ready to remove the plug). 
moval of more oil and dirt. You can then remove the plug quickly to avoid hav- 
It is a good idea to warm the engine oil first so it ing hot oil run down your arm. This will also help as- 
will flow better. This can be accomolished bv 15-20 sure that have the plug in your hand, not in the bot- 
tom of a pan of hot oil. 
Fig. 153 When loosened sufficiently, slowly 
turn the drain plug by hand, keeping con- Fig. 154 When you are ready, carefully pull 
Fig. 156 Also inspect the drain plug th 
before installing it back into the oil 
Fig. 155 Clean and inspect the threads on 
the oil pan Make sure the gasket on the drain plug is 
in place and does not require replacement Fig. 157 A plier-type filter wrench Is used 
here to loosen the filter  

ENGlNEELECTRliAL 2-5 
Fig. 19 Adjusting the distributor-1.5L en- 
gine shown, others similar 
4. Install the hold-down nut. 
5. Attach the distributor harness connectors. 
6. Install the distributor cap. 
7. Connect the negative battery cable. 
8. Adjust the ignition timing and tighten the hold- 
down nut to 8 ft. Ibs. (11 Nm). 
For procedures on the position sensors, please re- 
fer to Section 4 in this manual. 
The ignition system found on the 1.6L, 1997-60 
1.8L, 2.OL DOHC, 1999-00 2.4L SOHC, 2.4L DOHC, 
and 3.OL DOHC engines is a distributorless type. 
The advance of this system, like the distributor type 
ignition, is controlled by the Engine Control Unit 
(ECU) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The 
distributorless ignition system contains a crank an- 
gle/position sensor which detects the crank angle or 
position to each cylinder and converts this data into 
pulse signals. These signals are sent to the 
ECLVPCM, which calculates the engine rpm and 
regulates the fuel injection and ignition timing ac- 
cordingly. The system also contains a top dead cen- 
ter sensor which detects the top dead center position 
of each cylinder and converts this data into pulse 
signals. These signals are then sent to the 
ECU/PCM, which calculates the sequence of fuel in- 
jection and engine rpm. 
When the ignition switch is turned ON, battery 
voltage is applied to the ignition coil primary wind- 
ing. As the crank angle sensor shaft rotates, ignition 
signals are transmitted from the multi port injection 
control unit to the power transistor. These signals 
activate the power transistor to cause ignition coil 
primary winding current to flow from the ignition 
coil negative terminal through the power transistor 
to ground or be interrupted, repeatedly. This action 
induces high voltage in the secondary winding of 
the ignition coil. From the ignitron coil, the sec- 
ondary winding current produced flows through the 
spark plug to ground, thus causing ignition in each 
cylinder. 
Refer to Diagnosis and Testing under Distributor 
Ignition in this section, 
There are no adjustments to the distributorless ig- 
nition system other than the ignition timing adjust- 
ment. Refer to section 1 for ignition timing adjust- 
ment. 
TESTING 
1.6L and 1990 2.OL DOHC Engines 
6 See Figures 21 and 22 
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable and igni- 
tion coil harness connector. 
2. Measure the primary coil resistance as follows: 
a. Measure the resistance between terminals 
of the coil pack, 
NOT THE WIRE HARNESS, between 4 and 2 (coils at the No. 1 and No. 4 
cylinder srdes) of the ignition coil, and between 
terminals 4 and 
1 (coils at the No. 2 and No. 3 
cylinder sides). 
93152go9 Fig. 21 Measuring ignition coil primary re- 
sistance-1.6L and 1990 2.OL DDHC en- 
gines 
. 
For No 1 and No. 4 
cvlmders 
Fig. 22 Measuring ignition coil secondary 
resistance-l .6L and 1990 2.OL DOHC en- 
gines 
b. Compare reading to the desrred primary 
coil resistance of 0.77-0.95 ohms. 
3. Measure the coil secondary resistance as fol- 
lows: 
c. Detach the connector from the ignition coil. 
d. Measure the resistance between the high- 
voltage terminals for the No. 1 and No. 4 cylin- 
ders, and between the high-voltage terminals for 
the No. 2 and No. 3 cylinders. 
e. Compare the measured resistance to the 
desired secondary coil resistance of 10.3-13.9 
kilo-ohms. 
4. If the readings are not within the specified 
value, replace the ignition coil. 
1991-!I3 2.OL DDHC Engines 
# See Figures 23 and 24 
n 0 
Fig. 23 Measuring the primary ignition coil 
resistance-1991-93 2.OL DOHC enoines 
I I 
FOR NO 1 AND NO. 4 CYLINDERS 
Id 
FOR NO. 2 AND NO. 3 CYUNDERS 
89572611 
Fig. 24 Measuring ignition coil secondary 
resistance-1991-93 2.OL DOHC engines