
I-4 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
Fig. 12 A screw-in type compression gauge- Fig. 13 A vacuum/pressure tester is neces- 
is recommended for compression testing sary for many testing procedures 
Fig. 14 Most modern automotive multime- 
ters incorporate many helpful features 
your workbench. Some useful household items are: a 
large turkey baster or siphon, empty coffee cans and 
ice trays (to store parts), ball of twine, electrical tape 
for wiring, small rolls of colored tape for tagging lines 
or hoses, markers and pens, a note pad, golf tees (for 
plugging vacuum lines), metal coat hangers or a roll 
of mechanic’s wire (to hold things out of the way), 
dental pick or similar long, pointed probe, a strong 
magnet, and a small mirror (to see into recesses and 
under manifolds). 
A more advanced set of tools, suitable for tune-up 
work, can be drawn up easily. While the tools are 
lmvl Fig. 15 Proper information is vital, so at 
ways have a Chiiton Total Car Care manua 
handy 
l Feeler aauoes for valve adiustment 
* Timing-light. 
The choice of a timing fight should be made 
carefully. A light which works on the DC current 
supplied by the vehicle’s battery is the best choice; 
it should have a xenon tube for brightness. On any 
vehicle with an electronic ignition system, a timing 
light with an inductive pickup that clamps around 
the No. 1 spark plug cable is preferred. 
In addition to these basic tools, there are several 
other tools and gauges you may find useful. These 
include: 
l Compression gauge. The screw-in type is 
slower to use, but eliminates the possibility of a 
fauliy reading due to escaping pressure. 
l Manifold vacuum gauge. l 12V test light. l A combination volt/ohmmeter l induction Ammeter. This is used for determin- 
ing whether or not there is current in a wire. These 
are handy for use if a wire is broken somewhere in a 
wiring harness. 
As a final note, vou will orobablv find a torque 
wrench necessary for all but the most basic work. 
The beam type models are perfectly adequate, al- 
though the newer click types (breakaway) are easier 
to use. The click type torque wrenches tend to be 
more expensive. Also keep in mind that all types of 
torque wrenches should be periodically checked 
and/or recalibrated. You will have to decide for your- 
self which better fits your pocketbook, and purpose. 
ilightly more sophisticated, they need not be outra- 
feously expensive. There are several inexpensive 
achldwell meters on the market that are every bit as 
Toad for the average mechanic as a professional 
nodel. Just be sure that it goes to a least 1200-1500 
pm on the tach scale and that it works on 4,6 and 8- 
:ylinder engines. The key to these purchases is to 
nake them with an eye towards adaptability and wide 
ange. A basic list of tune-up tools could include: 
l Tach/dwell meter. l Spark plug wrench and gapping tool. Normally, the use of special factory tools is 
avoided for repair procedures, since these are not 
readily available for the do-it-yourself mechanic. 
When it is possible to perform the job with more 
commonly available tools, it will be pointed out, but 
occasionally, a special tool was designed to perform 
a specific function and should be used. Before sub- 
stituting another tool, you should be convinced that 
neither your safety nor the performance of the vehicle 
will be compromised. 
Special tools can usually be purchased from an 
automotive parts store or from your dealer. In some 
cases special tools may be available directly from the 
tool manufacturer. 
p See Figures 16, 17, 16, and 19 
It is virtually impossible to anticipate all of the haz- 
ards involved with automotive maintenance and ser- 
vice, but care and common sense will prevent most 
accidents. 
The rules of safety for mechanics range from “don’t 
smoke around gasoline,” to “use the proper tool(s) for 
the job.” The trick to avoiding injuries is to develop 
safe work habits and to take every possible precaution. 
Do keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit 
l handy. 
Do wear safety glasses or goggles when cut- l ting, drilling, grinding or prying, even if you have 
20-20 vision. If you wear glasses for the sake of vi- 
sion, wear safety goggles over your regular glasses. 
l Do shield your eyes whenever you work around 
the battery. Batteries contain sulfuric acid. In case of 
contact with the eyes or skin, flush the area with water 
or a mixture of water and baking soda, then seek im- 
mediate medical attention. 
l Do use safety stands (jackstands) for any un- 
dervehicle service. Jacks are for raising vehicles; 
jackstands are for making sure the vehicle stays 
raised until you want it to come down. Whenever the 
vehicle is raised, block the wheels remaining on the 
ground and set the parking brake. 
l Do use adequate ventilation when working 
with any chemicals or hazardous materials, Like car- 
bon monoxide, the asbestos dust resulting from 
some brake lining wear can be hazardous in suffi- 
cient quantities. 
l Do disconnect the negative battery cable when 
working on the electrical system. The secondary ig- nition system contains EXTREMELY HIGH VOLT- 
AGE. In some cases it can even exceed 50,000 volts. 
l Do follow manufacturer’s directions whenever 
working with potentially hazardous materials. Most 
chemicals and fluids are poisonous if taken inter- 
nally. 
l Do properly maintain your tools. Loose ham- 
merheads, mushroomed punches and chisels, frayed 
or poorly grounded electrical cords, excessively 
worn screwdrivers, spread wrenches (open end), 
cracked sockets, slipping ratchets, or faulty droplight 
sockets can cause accidents. 
* Likewise, keep your tools clean; a greasy 
wrench can slip off a bolt head, ruining the bolt and 
often harming your knuckles in the process. 
l Do use the proper size and type of tool for the 
job at hand. Do select a wrench or socket that fits the 
nut or bolt. The wrench or socket should sit straight, 
not cocked.  

1-6 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
Fig. 16 Screwdrivers should be kept in good 
:ondition to prevent injury or damage which 
:ould result it the blade slips from the screw 
0 
0 
PP tccs1022 Fig. 16 Using the correct size wrench will 
help prevent the possibility of rounding off 
a nut 
7 
lwo.WIRE CouDuClOR TMREE-WIRE CONO”CTOI 
MIRD WIRE GROUNDING GROUNDING TNRU 
THE CASE A CmxlIT 
. 
i$Y$$pQ 
p-+ 
TNHREE-WIRE CONDUCTOR THREE-WIRE CONDUCTOR 
ONE WIRE TO 4 GROUND GROUNOlNG TMRU 
AN ADAPTER PLUG 
tccm21 
Fig. 17 Power tools should always be prop- 
erly grounded 
Fig. 19 NEVER work under a vehicle unless it 
is supported using safety stands (jackstands) 
l Do, when possible, pull on a wrench handle l Do set the parking brake and block the drive 
rather than push on it, and adjust your stance to pre- 
vent a fall. wheels if the work requires a running engine. 
l Do be sure that adjustable wrenches are 
tightly closed on the nut or bolt and pulled so that 
the force is on the side of the fixed jaw. 
l Do strike squarely with a hammer; avoid glanc- 
ing blows. l Don’t run the engine in a garage or anywhere 
else without proper ventilation-EVER! Carbon monoxide is poisonous; it takes a long time to leave 
the human body and you can build up a deadly sup- 
ply of it in your system by simply breathing in a !ittle 
every day. You may not realize you are slowly poi- 
soning yourself. Always use power vents, windows, 
fans and/or open the garage door. 
l Don’t work around moving parts while wearing 
loose clothing. Short sleeves are much safer than 
long, loose sleeves. Hard-toed shoes with neoprene 
soles protect your toes and give a better grip on slip- 
pery surfaces. Jewelry such as watches, fancy belt 
buckles, beads or body adornment of any kind is not 
safe working around a vehicle. Long hair should be 
tied back under a hat or cap. 
l Don’t use pockets for toolboxes. A fall or bump 
can drive a screwdriver deep into your body. Even a 
rag hanging from your back pocket can wrap around 
a spinning shaft or fan. 
l Don’t smoke when working around gasoline, 
cleaning solvent or other flammable material. 
l Don’t smoke when workrng around the battery. 
When the battery is being charged, it gives off explo- 
sive hydrogen gas. 
l Don’t use gasoline to wash your hands; there 
are excellent soaps available. Gasoline contains dan- 
gerous additives which can enter the body through a 
cut or through your pores. Gasoline also removes all 
the natural oils from the skin so that bone dry hands 
will suck up oil and grease. 
l Don’t service the air conditioning system un- 
less you are equipped with the necessary tools and 
trainmg. When liquid or compressed gas refrigerant 
is released to atmospheric pressure it will absorb 
heat from whatever it contacts. This will chill or freeze 
anything it touches. 
l Don’t use screwdrivers for anything other than 
driving screws! A screwdriver used as an prying tool 
can snap when you least expect it, causing injuries. 
At the very least, you’ll ruin a good screwdriver. 
. Don’t use an emergency jack (that little ratchet, 
scissors, or pantograph jack supplied with the vehi- 
cle) for anything other than changing a flat! These 
jacks are only Intended for emergency use out on the 
road; they are NOT designed as a maintenance tool. If 
you are serious about mamtaining your vehicle your- 
self, invest in a hydraulic floor jack of at least a 1% 
ton capacity, and at least two sturdy jackstands. 
sion which can increase the torque necessary to proper installation and safe operation of the vehicle 
achieve the desired clamp load for which that fastener afterwards. 
was originally selected. Additionally, be sure that the Thread gauges are available to help measure a bolt 
p See Figures 20, 21, 22, and 23 driver surface of the fastener has not been compro- or stud’s thread. Most automotive and hardware 
mised by rounding or other damage. In some cases a stores keep gauges available to help you select the 
Although there are a great variety of fasteners found driver surface may become only partially rounded, al- proper size. In a pinch, you can use another nut or 
in the modern car or truck, the most commonly used lowing the driver to catch in only one direction. In bolt for a thread gauge. If the bolt you are replacing is 
retainer is the threaded fastener (nuts, bolts, screws, many of these occurrences, a fastener may be in- not too badly damaged, you can select a match by 
studs, etc.). Most threaded retainers may be reused, stalled and tightened, but the driver would not be able finding another bolt which will thread in its place. If 
provided that they are not damaged in use or during to grip and loosen the fastener again. (This could lead you find a nut which threads properly onto the dam- 
the repair. Some retainers (such as stretch bolts or J to frustration down the line should that component aged bolt, then use that nut to help select the replace- 
torque prevailing nuts) are designed to deform when ever need to be disassembled again). ment bolt If however, the bolt you are replacing is so 
tightened or in use and should not be reinstalled. If you must replace a fastener, whether due to de- badly damaged (broken or drilled out) that its threads 
Whenever possible, we will note any special re- sign or damage, you must ALWAYS be sure to use cannot be used as a gauge, you might start by look- 
tainers which should be replaced during a procedure. the proper replacement In all cases, a retainer of the ing for another bolt (from the same assembly or a 
But you should always inspect the condition of a re- same design, material and strength should be used. similar location on your vehicle) which will thread 
tainer when It is removed and replace any that show Markings on the heads of most bolts will help deter- into the damaged bolt’s mounting. If so, the other bolt 
signs of damage. Check all threads for rust or corro- mine the proper strength of the fastener. The same 
can be used to select a nut; the nut can then be used 
material, thread and pitch must be selected to assure 
to select the replacement bolt.  

. 
1-26 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
TDC of the compression stroke. If this happens, the 
piston WIII be at the beginning of the power stroke 
just as the compressed and ignited air/fuel mixture 
forces the piston down and turns the crankshaft. Be- 
cause it takes a fraction of a second for the spark 
plug to ignite the mixture in the cylinder, the spark 
plug must fire a little before the piston reaches TDC. 
Otherwise, the mixture will not be completely ignited 
as the piston passes TDC and the full power of the 
explosion will not be used by the engine. 
The timing measurement is given in degrees of 
crankshaft rotation before the piston reaches TDC 
(BTDC). If the setting for the ignition timing is 10” 
BTDC, each spark plug must fire 10 degrees before 
each piston reaches TDC. This only holds true, how- 
ever, when the engine is at idle speed. The combus- 
tion process must be complete by 23”ATDC to main- 
tain proper engine performance, fuel mileage, and 
low emissions. 
As the engine speed increases, the pistons go 
faster. The spark plugs have to ignite the fuel even 
sooner if it IS to be completely ignited when the pis- 
ton reaches TDC. If the ignition is set too far ad- 
vanced (BTDC), the ignition and expansion of the fuel 
in the cylinder wtll occur too soon and tend to force 
the piston down while it is still traveling up. Thus 
causes pre ignition or “knockmg and pinging”. If the 
ignition spark is set too far retarded, or after TDC 
(ATDC), the piston will have already started on its 
way down when the fuel is ignited. The piston will be 
forced down for only a portion of its travel, resulting 
in poor engine performance and lack of power. 
Timing marks or scales can be found on the rim of 
the crankshaft pulley and the timing cover. The marks 
on the pulley correspond to the posrtion of the piston 
in the No. 1 cylinder. A stroboscopic (dynamic) tim- 
ing light is hooked onto the No. 1 cylinder spark plug 
wrre. Every time the spark plug fires, the timing light 
flashes. By aiming the light at the timing marks while 
the engine is running, the exact position of the piston 
within the cylinder can be easily read (the flash of 
light makes the mark on the pulley appear to be 
standing still). Proper timing is indicated when the 
mark and scale are in specified alignment. 
When checking timing with the engine run- 
ning, take care not to get the timing light 
wires tangled in the tan blades and/or drive 
belts. 
INSPECTION &ADJUSTMENT 
1990-96 Models 
e See Figures 113 thru 119 
1. Set the parking brake, start and run the engine 
until normal operating temperature is obtained. Keep 
all lights and accessories OFF and the front wheels 
straight-ahead. Place the transaxle in 
P for automatic 
transaxle or Neutral for manual transaxle. 
2. If not at specification, set the idle speed to the 
correct level. 
3. Turn the engine 
OFF. Remove the water- 
proof cover from the igmtion timing adjusting con- 
nector, and connect a jumper wire from this terminal 
Fig. 113 Ignition timing adjustment con- 
nector-1990-92 Mirage with 1.5L engine 
93151QM Fig. 115 Ignition timing adjustment con- 
nectar-Galant with 2.OL engines 
93151QO1 Fig. 117 Ignition timing adjustment con. 
nectar-1994-96 Galant 
to a good ground. Refer to the corresponding illustra- 
tions for the correct location of the timing adjustment 
connector. 
4. Connect a conventional power timing light to 
the No. 1 cylinder spark plug wire. Start the engine 
and run at idle. 
5. Aim the timing light at the timing scale lo- 
cated near the crankshaft pulley. 
6. Loosen the distributor or crank angle sensor 
hold-down nut just enough so the housing can be ro- 
tated. 
7. Turn the housing in the proper direction until 
the specified timing is reached. Tighten the hold- 
down nut and recheck the timing. Turn the engine 
OFF. 8. Remove the jumper wire from the ignition 
timing adjusting terminal and install the water-proof 
cover. 
9. Start the engine and check the actual timing 
(the timing without the terminal grounded). This 
reading should be approximately 5 degrees more 
than the basic timing. Actual timing may increase ac- 
cording to altitude. Also, actual timing may fluctuate 
because of slight variation accomplished by the ECU. 
Fig. 114 Ignition timing adjustment con- 
nectar-Miracle with 1.6L enaine 
CHECK CONNECTOR 93151QO! Fig. 116 Ignition timing adjustment con. 
nectar-1992-96 Oiamante 
93151gOB Fig. 116 Ignition timing adjustment con- 
nector-1993-96 Mirage with 1.5L engine 
Fig. 119 Ignition timing adjustment con- 
nector-1993-96 Mirage with 1.6L engine 
As long as the basic timing is correct, the engine is 
timed correctly. 
10. Turn the engine 
OFF. 11. Disconnect the timing apparatus and 
tachometer. 
1997-00 Models 
The ignition timing is controlled by the Engine 
Control Module (ECM) and is not adjustable. How- 
ever it can be inspected using a scan tool.  

. 
l-36 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
Install the drain plug and tighten to 22 ft. Ibs. 
(304Nm) 
5. Refill the transaxle to the proper level, as 
shown in the Capacities chart, with the appropriate 
fluid. The oil level should be at the bottom of the oil 
filler hole. I 
6. When the oil reaches the orooer level, install 
the filler plug and tighten to 22 ft. Ibs. (30 Nm). 
FLUID RECOMMENDATIONS 
8957i565 Fig, 165 Oil, when at the proper level, will 
reach the lower edge of tC=+ frfr*r u*rn -non- 
ing Mitsubishi recommends the use of Mercon@auto- 
matic transmission fluid. 
LEVELCHECK 
Fig. 170 The fluid level is OK if it is within 
the between the HOT and ADD areas on the 
&&i& Do not overfill the transaxle or 
-.*".."... -- .*"- problems could o ccur 
1. Makesure the vehicle is oarked on a level sur- 
face. 
2. Remove the filler plug and make sure the oil 
level is up to the lower edge of the filler plug hole. 
3. Check to be sure that the transaxle oil is not 
noticeably dirty and that it has a suitable viscosity. u See Figures 168,169, and 170 
fluid is at normal operating temperature, drive the ve-  The transaxle dipstick is located behind the air in- 
hicle at least 10 miles.  let hose, towards the firewall. 
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface. 
2. The transaxle should be at normal operating 
temperature when checking fluid level. To ensure the 5. Pull the dipstick from its tube again. Holding it 
horizontally, road the fluid level. The fkrid should be 
between the MIN and MAX mark. If the fluid is below 
the MIN mark, add fluid through the dipstick tube. 
DRAIN & REFILL 
6. Insert the dipstick, and check the level again 
after adding any fluid. Be careful not to overfill the 
transaxle. 
3. With the selector lever in P and the parking 
DRAIN & REFILL u See Figures 166 and 167 
1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on a level sur- 
face. 
2. Raise and safely support the vehicle. Place a brake applied, start the engine. 
4. Open the hood and locate the transaxle fluid 
dipstick. Pull the dipstick from its tube, wipe it clean, 
and reinsert it. Make sure the dipstick is fully in- 
serted. 
suitable drain pan under the manual transaxle. 
3. Remove the filler plug and the drain plug and 
allow the oil to drain completely. 
Fig. 166 The automatic transaxle dipstick is 
typically located under the air cleaner inlet 
Fig. 166 Use a box-end wrench to loosen 
the manual transaxle drain plug . . . tube. Pull the dipstick up to remove it from 
the transaxle 
Fig. 169 Wipe the dipstick clean and Insert 
/fluid level reading .,  it mto the transaxle agam to get the correct 
j The fluid should be changed according to the 
schedule in the Maintenance Intervals chart. If the car 
is normally used in severe service, such as stop and 
start driving, trailer towing, or the like, the interval 
should be halved. If the car is driven under especially 
nasty conditions, such as in heavy city traffic where 
the temperature normally reaches 90°F (32%), or in 
very hilly or mountainous areas, or in police, taxi, or  b See Figures 171 thru 177 
1. Raise and support the vehicle safely. 
2. Place a suitable drain pan under the transaxle 
drain plug. 
3. Remove the transaxle pan drain plug. Let the 
fluid completely drain out of the transaxle. 
4. Install the drain plug and tighten it to 22-25 ft. 
lbs. (30-35 Nm). 
5. If equipped, remove the drain plug on the dif- 
ferential of the transaxle. 
6. Install the differential drain plug and tighten ft 
to 22-25 ft. Ibs. (30-35 Nm). 
7. Remove the drain pan. 
8. Lower the vehicle. 
9. Fill the transaxle through the dipstick to the 
proper level. 
10. Place the gear selector lever in P and start the 
engine. Run the engine at idle, engage the emergency 
brake and hold the brake pedal down. Move the gear 
selector lever through all transaxle ranges for approx- 
imately 5 minutes. 
11. Return the selector lever to P and leave the 
engine running at idle. 
12. Check the transaxle fluid level. The fluid level 
at normal operating temperature should read within 
the crosshatched area of the fluid level dipstick. 
13. If the fluid level reads below the crosshatched 
area, adjust the level by adding fluid in small incre- 
ments until the correct fluid level is obtained. 
PAN &FILTER SERVICE 
b See Figures 178 thru 184  

t 
1-38 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
11 I Add the recommended automatic transaxle 
fluid to the transaxle through the dipstick tube. You 
will need a long necked funnel, or a funnel and tube 
to do this. A quick check of the capacities chart later 
in this Section will reveal the capacity of the transaxle 
in your vehicle. On a first fill after removing the pan 
and filter, this number should be cut into a ‘hand 
checked on the dipstick before refilling. 
12. With the transaxle in P, put on the parking 
brake, block the front wheels, start the engine and let 
it idle. DO NOT RACE THE ENGINE. DO NOT MOVE 
THE LEVER THROUGH ITS RANGES. 
13. With the lever in Park, check the fluid level. If 
it’s OK, take the car out for a short drive, park on a 
level surface, and check the level again, as outlined 
earlier in this section. Add more fluid if necessary. Be 
careful not to overfill, which will cause foaming and 
w fluid loss. n of the transfer case filler 
3. Remove the filler and the drain plug and allow 
the oil to drain into the drain pan. 
4. After the fluid has drained completely, install 
the drain plug and tighten to 24 ft. Ibs. (32 Nm). 
5. Refill the transfer case to the proper level with 
Fig. 184 . . . 
the transaxle case before in- 
stalling the gasket 
and pan onto the case FLUID RECOMMENDATIONS Hypoid gear oil SAE 75W-85W/75W-9OW conform- 
ing to API specifications GL-4 or higher. The oil level 
-‘-,*I’ -nnnh +‘* “%om edge of the oil filler hole. 
nxfer raw filler nlm and tinhtm When adding fluid or refilling the transfer case, 
use Hypoid gear oil SAE 75W-85W or 75W-9OW 
conforming to API specifications 61-4 or higher. 
LEVELCHECK 6. Install the tra .._._. ____ .._. T.-J _.._ .lJ . .._.. 
to 24 ft. lbs. (32 Nm). 
7. Carefully lower the vehicle. 
u See Figure 185 
,  1 FLUID RECOMMENDATIONS 
delivery service, the fluid should be changed accord- 
ing to the severe service schedule. 
The fluid must be hot before it is drained; a 20 u See Figure 187 
Since fluid viscosity range may 
vary depending on 
specific temperature range of operation, please refer 
~~ 
tne transaxle case. 
You’ll be very sorry later if you do. bottom edge of the transfer case filler 1 1 Fig. 187 Rear axle lubricant application I 
*If the drained fluld is discolored (brown or 
1 plug hole chart black), thick, or pmmll~ hmmt nnrinmm I transaxle trouble .llln3llU ““III., url,““P s, probably due to overheat- 
,r..rr,rA “#.a.- rrdr 
trig, should be susp~~lr;u. lvUl vLlr J 
transaxle should be inspected by a reliable 
transaxle specialist to determine the prob- 
lem. 
5. Remove the pan and gasket. 
6. Clean the pan with solvent and allow it to air 
dry. If you use a rag to wipe out the pan, you risk 
leaving bits of lint behind, which will clog the dinky 
hydraulic passages in the bansaxle. 
7. Remove the filter retaining bolts and remove 
the filter from the valve bodv. lnsoect each component for leaking. Check the oil 
he filler plug. If the oil is contami- 
ry to replace it with new oil. 
if% nn IPVPI z11rf2r~ 
level by removing t 
nated, it is necessa 
1. Park the vehi,., -.. ,-.“, __. ,“-_. 
2. Remove the filler plug and make sure the oil 
level reaches the lower edge of the filler plug hole. 
3. Check to be sure that the oil is not noticeably 
dirty and that it has the proper viscosity. 
4. If necessary, add oil through the filler hole until 
is runs out of the hole. to the accompanying chart for the proper fluid for 
your vehicle. 
LEVEL CHECK 
1. Make sure the vehicle is parked on level 
ground. 
2. Remove the oil fill plug to check the oil level. 
3. The oil level is sufficient if it reaches the lower 
portion of the filler plug hole. If the fluid is low, add 
as required through the filler plug. 
To install: . 
8. Install a new filter, then install the retaining 
bolts and tighten them to 5 ft. Ibs. (7 Nm). 
9. Position the gasket on the pan, then install 
the pan. Tighten the bolts evenly and in rotation to 
8-9ft. Ibs. (10-12 Nm.). Do not overtighten. 
IO. Lower the vehicle. DRAIN & REFILL 
I8 DRAIN & REFILL 
u See Figure 188  ) See Figure- 14 
1. Raise and safely support the vehicle, for access 
to the transfer case. 
2. Place a suitable drain pan under the transfer 
case fluid drain plug. 1. Position the vehicle on a flat surface or raise 
and safely support the vehicle in a level position. 
2. Place a suitable drain pan under the rear axle.  

GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 1-45 
SLING TYPE 
WHEEL LIFT TYPE 
cles 
SUNG TYPE 
WHEEL LIFT TYPE 
FLAT BED TYPE 
Fig. 220 Rear towing position-FWD vehi 
cles 
personal injury. Remember that batteries contain a 
small amount of explosive hydrogen gas which is a 
by-product of battery charging. Sparks should always 
be avoided when working around batteries, especially 
when attaching jumper cables. To minimize the pos- 
sibility of accidental sparks, follow the procedure 
carefully. 
NEVER hook the batteries up in a series cir- 
cuit or the entire electrical system will go up 
in smoke. includino the starter! 
Vehicles equipped with a diesel engine may utilize 
two 12 volt batteries. If so, the batteries are con- 
nected in a parallel circuit (positive terminal to posi- 
tive terminal, negative terminal to negative terminal). 
owrng methods 
a tow truck IS used 
Lrftrng method for 4 wheels-Good 
Front wheels lifted-No good 
Front wheels lifted-No good 
Rear wheels lifted-No good 
Towing by rope or cable-Good 
e9571g92 qemarks 
. For4WD models, the basic principle is that 
all four wheels are to be rarsed before 
towing. 
. The shift lever should be set to 1 st gear and 
the parking brake should be applied. 
l The vehicle must not be towed by tofacing 
only its front wheels or only the rear wheels 
on a rollino dollv, because to do so will 
result in d&e&ration of the visfx~s 
coupling and result in the viscous coupling 
causing the vehicle to jump forward 
suddenly. 
l If only the front wheels or only the rear 
wheels are lifted for towing, the bumper 
wrll bedamyd. 
In addrtron. II trng of the rear wheels causes 
the or1 to flow forward. and may result in 
heat damage to the rear bushing of the 
transfer, and so should never be done. 
l The front and rear wheels must rotate 
normally. 
l The various mechanisms must function 
normally. 
l The shift lever must be set to the neutral 
~Asi&n and the ignition key must be set to 
Fig. 221 Towing instructions-AWD models 
Hooking the batteries up in parallel circuit increases 
battery cranking power without increasing total bat- 
tery voltage output. Output remains at 12 volts. On 
the other hand, hooking two 12 volt batteries up in a 
series circuit (positive terminal to negative terminal, 
positive terminal to negative terminal) increases total 
battery output to 24 volts (12 volts plus 12 volts). 
l Be sure that both batteries are of the same volt- 
age. Vehicles covered by this manual and most vehi- 
cles on the road today utilize a 12 volt charging sys- 
tem. 
l Be sure that both batteries are of the same po- 
larity (have the same terminal, in most cases NEGA- 
TIVE grounded). 
l Be sure that the vehicles are not touching or a 
short could occur. 
l On serviceable batteries, be sure the vent cap 
holes are not obstructed. 
l Do not smoke or allow sparks anywhere near 
the batteries. 
l In cold weather, make sure the battery elec- 
trolyte is not frozen, This can occur more readily in a 
battery that has been in a state of discharge. 
l Do not allow electrolyte to contact your skin or 
clothing. 
1. Make sure that the voltages of the 2 batteries 
are the same. Most batteries and charging systems 
are of the 12 volt variety. 
MAKE CONNECTIONS IN NUMERICAL ORDER 
A FIRST JUMPER CABLE 
WITH CHARGED BATTERY 
- 
lccslQ?,Q 
Fig. 222 Connect the jumper cables to the 
batteries and engine in the order shown  

. 
I-46 GENERALINFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
2. Pull the jumping vehicle (with the good bat- 
tery) into a position so the jumper cables can reach 
the dead battery and that vehicle’s engine. Make sure 
that the vehicles do NOT touch. 
3. Place the transmissions/transaxles of both ve- 
hicles in Neutral (MT) or P (AT), as applicable, then 
firmly set their parking brakes. 
*ff necessary for safety reasons, the hazard 
lights on both vehicles may be operated 
throughout the entire procedure without sig- 
nificantiy increasing the diff icuity of jumping 
the dead battery. 
4. Turn all lights and accessories OFF on both 
vehicles. Make sure the ignition switches on both ve- 
hicles are turned to the OFF position. 
5. Cover the battery cell caps with a rag, but do 
not cover the terminals. 
6. Make sure the terminals on both batteries are 
clean and free of corrosion or proper electrical con- 
nection will be impeded. If necessary, clean the bat- 
tery terminals before proceeding. 
7. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) termi- 
nals on both batteries. 
8. Connect the first jumper cable to the positive 
(t) terminal of the dead battery, then connect the 
other end of that cable to the positive (t) terminal of 
the booster (good) battery. 
9. Connect one end of the other jumper cable to 
the negative (−) terminal on the booster bat- 
tery and the final cable clamp to an engine bolt head, 
alternator bracket or other solid, metallic point on the 
engine with the dead battery. Try to pick a ground on 
the engine that is positioned away from the battery in 
order to minimize the possibility of the 2 clamps 
touching should one loosen during the procedure. 
DO NOT connect this clamp to the negative (-) termi- 
nal of the bad battery. cable on the donor battery. Disconnect the positive 
cable from the donor battery and finally, disconnect 
the positive cable from the formerly dead battery. Be 
careful when disconnecting the cables from the posi- 
tive terminals not to allow the alligator clips to touch 
any metal on either vehicle or a short and sparks will 
occur. 
I 
$ See Figures 223,224, 225,226, and 227 
Your vehicle was supplied with a jack for emer- 
gency road repairs. This jack is fine for changing a 
flat tire or other short term procedures not requiring 
you to go beneath the vehicle. If it is used in an emergency situation, carefully follow the instructions 
provided either with the jack or in your owners man- 
ual. Do not attempt to use the jack on any portions of 
the vehicle other than specified by the vehicle manu- 
facturer. Always block the diagonally opposite wheel 
when using a jack. 
A more convenient way of jacking is the use of a 
garage or floor jack. You may use the floor jack to 
raise the front of the vehicle by placing it under the 
front subframe. The rear of the vehicle is most easily 
raised by using the lift points on the drip rail. All 
models are equipped with lift points located on the 
mid- crossmember in the front and a bracket located 
on the floorpan underneath the trunk. 
Never place the jack under the radiator, engine or 
transaxle components. Severe and expensive damage 
will result when the jack is raised. Additionally, never 
jack under the floorpan or 
bodywork; the 
metal will 
Whenever you plan to work under the vehicle, you 
must support it on jackstands or ramps. Never use 
cinder blocks or stacks of wood to support the vehi- 
cle, even if you’re only going to be under it for a few 
minutes. Never crawl under the vehicle when it is 
supported only by the tire-changing jack or other 
*Always position a block of wood or small 
rubber pad on top of the jack or jackstand to 
protect the lifting point’s finish when lifting 
or supporting the vehicle. 
Small hydraulic, screw, or scissors jacks are satis- 
factory for raising the vehicle. Drive-on trestles or 
Be very careful to keep the jumper cables 
away from moving parts (cooling fan, belts, 
etc.) on both engines. 
10. Check to make sure that the cables are routed 
away from any moving parts, then start the donor ve- 
hicle’s engine. Run the engine at moderate speed for 
several minutes to allow the dead battery a chance to 
receive some initial charge. 
11. With the donor vehicle’s engine still running 
slightly above idle, try to start the vehicle with the 
dead battery. Crank the engine for no more than 10 &stands also on the 
Fig. 225 The most practical place to place 
front of the vehicle is 
seconds at a time and let the starter cool for at least 
20 seconds between tries. If the vehicle does not start 
in 3 tries, it is likely thatsomething else is also 
wrong or that the battery needs additional time to 
charge. 
12. Once the vehicle is started, allow it to run at 
idle for a few seconds to make sure that it is operat- 
ing properly. 
13. Turn ON the headlights, heater blower and, if 
equipped, the rear defroster of both vehicles in order 
to reduce the severity of voltage spikes and subse- 
quent risk of damage to the vehicles’ electrical sys- 
tems when the cables are disconnected. This step is 
especially important to any vehicle equipped with 
computer control modules. 
14. Carefully disconnect the cables in the’reverse 
order of connection. Start with the negative cable that 
is attached to the engine ground, then the negative Fig. 226 Place the jackstands also 
subframe to support the front of the Fig. 227 All models covered by this 
are equipped with lift points on t 
crossmember in the front and on a  

GENERAL INFORMATION AND MAINTENANCE 1-47 
ramps are also a handy and safe way to both raise l When the drive wheels are to remain on the 
and support the vehicle. Be careful though, some ground, leave the vehicle in gear to help prevent it 
ramps may be too steep to drive your vehicle onto 
The following safety points cannot be overempha- from rolling. 
without scraping the front bottom panels. Never sup- 
sized: 
l Always use jackstands to support the vehicle 
port the vehicle on any suspension member (unless l Always block the opposite wheel or wheels to when you are working underneath. Place the stands 
specifically instructed to do so by a repair manual) or 
keep the vehicle from rolling off the jack. beneath the vehrcle’s jacking brackets Before climb- 
by an underbody panel. 
l When raising the front of the vehicle, firmly ap- ing underneath, rock the vehicle a bit to make sure it 
ply the parking brake. is firmly supported. 
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE INTERVALS (MITSUBISHI DIAMANTE, GALANT, & MIRAGE) 
VEHICLE MILEAGE INTERVAL (x1000) 
7.5 15 
22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 60 67.5 75 62.5 90 97.5 
J J 
J 4 J J 4 4 4 J J 
J 4 
4 
J J J J 4  TO BE 
Ball loints &steering linkage 
S/I J J J 
seals 
Dnve belt(s) S/I 4 4 J 
Fvha,,rt cvctom $/I 
J J J LmI,..“w. “,YL”,‘. Fuel hoses 
+ 
Manual transaxle oil (Galant) 
connectlon & fuel tank filler 
R. Replace S/I - Sefwce or Inspect FREQUENT OPERATION MAINTENANCE (SEVERE SERVICE) II a vehicle is operated under any of the following conditions it is considered severe service: 
- Extremely dusty areas. 
- 50% or more of the vehicle operation is in 32% (WF) or higher temperatures, or constant opsralion in 
temperatures below 0% (32°F). 
- Prolonged idling (vehicle operation in stop and go traffic). 
_ Frequent short running periods (engine does not warm to normal operating temfwatures). 
- Police, taxi, delivery usage or trailer towing usage. 
0118 011 filter change-change every 3CQO miles. 
Disc brake pads - sewce or Inspect ever 6COO miles 
AN hlter element _ setwe or inspect every 15,000 miles. 
Automatic transaxle lluld 8 filter . replace every 15,COO m&s. 
Rear drum brake Ikmngs & rear wheel cylinders (Galant & Mirage) 
Spark plugs (except Dlamante wlplabnum tip) - replace every 15,COO miles. 
Manual transaxle 011 (mcludlng transfer (Galant & Mirage). replace every 30,000 miles.