
. 
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-30 GENERAL'INFORMATIONAND MAINTENANCE 
n Pylon@ inserts, the clip 
be removed prior to siidi then the insert can be re 
After installing the replacement 
strip and pull up while twisting counterclockwise. 
The backing strip will snap out of the retaining tab. 
Do this for the remaining tabs until the refill is free of 
the blade. The length of these refills is molded into 
the end and they should be replaced with identical 
types. cate the front end is out of alignment or that the tires 
are out of balance. 
TIRE ROTATION 
# See Figures 137 and 138 
Tires must be rotated periodically to equalize wear 
patterns that vary with a tire’s position on the vehicle. 
Tires will also wear in an uneven way as the front 
1 Fin 1% Tha Trinlarlna@ 
cle might have any kind. Aftermarket blades and arms 
rarely use the exact same type blade or refill as the 
original equipment. Here are some typiel aftermarket 
blades; not all may be available for your vehicle: 
The Anco@ type uses a release button that is 
pushed down to allow the refill to slide out of the 
yoke jaws. The new refill slides back into the frame 
, 
and locks in place. 
Some Trico@ refills are removed by locating where 
the metal backing strip or the refill is wider. Insert a 
small screwdriver blade between the frame and metal 
backing strip. Press down to release the refill from 
the retaining tab. 
Other types of Trico@’ refills have two metal tabs 
which are unlocked by squeezing them together. The 
rubber filler can then be withdrawn from the frame 
iaws. A new refill is installed bv insertina the refill lowed to touch the olass steering/suspension system wears to the point where 
the alianment should be reset. 
# See Figure 138 
Common sense and good driving habits will af- 
ford maximum tire life. Fast starts, sudden stops 
and hard cornering are hard on tires and will 
shorten their useful life span. Make sure that you 
don’t overload the vehicle or run with incorrect 
pressure in the tires. Both of these practices will in- 
crease tread wear. 
*For optimum tire life, keep the fires prop 
eriy inflated, rotate them often and have the 
wheel alignment checked periodically. 
Inspect your tires frequently. Be especially care- 
ful to watch for bubbles in the tread or sidewall, 
deep cuts or underinflation. Replace any tires with 
bubbles in the sidewall. If cuts are so deep that they 
penetrate to the cords, discard the tire. Any cut in 
the sidewall of a radial tire renders it unsafe. Also 
look for uneven tread wear patterns that may indi- Rotating the tires will ensure maximum life for the 
tires as a set, so you will not have to discard a tire 
early due to wear on only part of the tread. Regular 
DIRECTIONAL TIRES DIRECTIONAL TIRES 
jnto the front frame jaws and &ding it rearward to 
engage the remaining frame jaws. There are usually 
four jaws; be certain when installing that the refill is 
engaged in all of them. At the end of its travel, the 
tabs will lock into place on the front jaws of the wiper 
blade frame. 
Another type of refill is made from polycarbonate. 
The refill has a simple locking device at one end 
which flexes downward out of the groove into which 
the jaws of the holder fit, allowing easy release. By 
sliding the new refill through all the jaws and push- 
ing through the slight resistance when it reaches the 
end of its travel, the refill will lock into position. 
To replace the Tridon@ refill, it is necessary to re- 
move the wiper blade. This refill has a plastic backing 
strip with a notch about 1 in. (25mm) from the end. 
Hold the blade (frame) on a hard surface so that the 
frame is tightly bowed. Grip the tip of the backing Fig. 138 A label with information concern- 
ing the tires is typically located on one of 
the door pillars 
tion”  

. 
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.  

I) 
ENGINEANDENGINEOVERHAUL 3-65 
10. Install the camshaft(s), rockers, shafts and 
any other components that were removed for disas- 
sembly. 
GENERAL INFORMATION ways number 1. However, depending on the engine 
placement, the front of the engine could either be the 
flywheel or damper/pulley end. Generally the front of 
the engine faces the front of the vehicle. Use a num- 
ber punch or scribe and also mark the main bearing 
caps from front to rear with the front most cap being 
number 1 (if there are five caps, mark them 1 through 
5, front to rear). 
A thorough overhaul or rebuild of an engine block 
would include replacing the pistons, rings, bearings, 
timing belt/chain assembly and oil pump. For OHV 
engines also include a new camshaft and lifters. The 
block would then have the cylinders bored and honed 
oversize (or if using removable cylinder sleeves, new 
sleeves installed) and the crankshaft would be cut 
undersize to provide new wearing surfaces and per- 
feet clearances. However, your particular engine may Take special care when pushing the connect- 
ing rod up from the crankshaft because the 
sharp threads of the rod bolts/studs will 
score the crankshaft journal. Insure that spe- 
cial plastic caps are installed over them, or 
cut two pieces of rubber hose to do the 
same. 
Again, rotate the engine, this time to position the 
number one cylinder bore (head surface) up. Turn the 
crankshaft until the number one piston is at the bot- 
tom of its travel, this should allow the maximum ac- 
cess to its connecting rod. Remove the number one 
connecting rods fasteners and cap and place two 
lengths of rubber hose over the rod bolts/studs to 
protect the crankshaft from damage. Using a sturdy 
wooden dowel and a hammer, push the connecting 
rod up about 1 in. (25mm) from the crankshaft and 
remove the upper bearing insert. Continue pushing 
or tapping the connecting rod up until the piston 
rings are out of the cylinder bore. Remove the piston 
and rod by hand, put the upper half of the bearing in- 
sert back into the rod, install the cap with its bearing 
insert installed, and hand-tighten the cap fasteners. If 
the parts are kept in order in this manner, they will 
not get lost and you will be able to tell which bear- 
ings came form what cylinder if any problems are 
discovered and diagnosis is necessary. Remove all 
the other piston assemblies in the same manner. On 
V-style engines, remove all of the pistons from one 
bank, then reposition the engine with the other cylin- 
der bank head surface up, and remove that banks nis- 
prevent the assemblies from being removed, 
necessitating its removal. Fig. 260 Carefully tap the piston out of the 
bore using a wooden dowel 
There are several different types of ridge reamers 
on the market, none of which are inexpensive, Unless 
.3 “me.+ ,-ins, rdnnn;nn mh~lil.-linn ;I nn+:n:nnL.* l.^W 
a ylwx “Gal “I cllylllc Ir;““ll”llly 13 dllLILlpxC”, ““I- row or rent a reamer. 
1. Turn the crankshaft until the piston is at the 
bottom of its travel. 
2. Cover the head of the piston with a rag. 
3. Follow the tool manufacturers instructions and housing or transmission mounting surface. You must 
1 as many 
II of the 
~1SA~E~BLY 
b See Figures 259 and 260 
The engine disassembly instructions following as- 
sume that you have the engine mounted on an engine 
stand. If not, it is easiest to disassemble the engine 
on a bench or the floor with it resting on the bell be able to access the connecting rod fasteners and 
turn the crankshaft during disassembly. Also, all en- 
gine covers (timing, front, side, oil pan, whatever) 
should 
are sei2 
nletelv have already been removed. Engines which 
,ed or locked up may not be able to be com- 
r’-‘-‘, disassembled, and a core (salvage yard) en- 
gine sh ould be purchased. 
If no 
t done during the cylinder head removal, re- 
move the timing chain/belt and/or gear/sprocket as- 
sembly. Remove the oil pick-up and pump assembly 
and, if necessary, the pump drive. If equipped, re- 
move any balance or auxiliary shafts. If necessary, re- 
move the cylinder ridge from the top of the bore. See 
the cylinder ridge removal procedure earlier in this 
section. 
Rotate the engine over so that the crankshaft is ex- 
posed. Use a number punch or scribe and mark each 
connecting rod with its respective cylinder number. 
The cylinder closest to the front of the engine is al-  cut away the ridge, exercising extreme care to avoid 
~ ioo deepfy. 
4. Remove the ridge reamer, the rag and 
armings as possible. Continue until a 
biter ridges have been removed. ton assemblies. 
The only remaining component in the engine 
block should now be the crankshaft. Loosen the main 
bearing caps evenly until the fasteners can be turned 
by hand, then remove them and the caps. Remove the 
crankshaft from the engine block. Thoroughly clean 
all of the components. 
INSPECTION 
Now that the engine block and all of its compo- 
nents are clean, it’s time to inspect them for wear 
and/or damage. To accurately inspect them, you will 
need some specialized tools: 
l Two or three separate micrometers to measure 
the prstons and crankshaft journals 
l A dial indicator l Telescoping gauges for the cylinder bores l A rod alignment fixture to check for bent con- 
netting rods 
If you do not have access to the proper tools, 
you may want to bring the components to a shop 
that does. 
Generally, you shouldn’t expect cracks in the en- 
gine block or its components unless it was known to 
leak, consume or mix engine fluids, it was severely 
overheated, or there was evidence of bad bearings 
and/or crankshaft damage. A visual inspection  

7-8 DRIVETRAIN 
/ sive Wear TCCS7124 1 Fig 34 Check the pressure plate for exces- TCCS7126 j / . Fig 38 Be sure that the flywheel surface is 
clean, before installing the clutch 
Fig. 38 Use the clutch alignment tool to 
align the 
clutch disc during assembly 
Fig. 40 You may want to use a threadlock- Fig, 41 Be sure to use a torque wrench to 
ing compound on the clutch assembly bolts 
tighten all bolts 
damage or wear. If necessary, remove the release fork the end of the release cylinder pushrod and the 
and unthread the fulcrum from the transaxle. pushrod hole in the release fork. 
7. Carefully inspect the condition of the clutch 13. Apply multi-purpose grease to the clutch re- 
components and replace any worn or damaged parts. 
lease bearing. Pack the bearing inner surface and the r Fig. 36 Typical clutch alignment tool, note 
shaft ,,, 1  how the splines match the transaxle’s input 
TCCS7130 Fig. 39 Pressure plate-to-flywheel bolt 
holes should align 
nodels and 16 ft. Ibs. (22 Nm) on all other models. 
3emove the aligning tool. 
. 18. Install the transaxle assembly. 
19. Check for proper clutch operation. 
4DJUSTMENTS 
Pedal Free Play 
1. Measure the clutch pedal height from the face 
of the pedal pad to the firewall. The desired distances 
are as follows: 
a. Mirage--&6148 in. (168-171mm) 
b. Galant -6.93-7.17 in. (176182mm) 
2. Measure the clutch pedal clevis pin play at the 
ace of the pedal pad. The standard values are as fol- 
DWS: a. Mirage--0.04--0.12 in. (l-3mm) 
b. Galant4.04-0.12 in. (l-3mm) 
3. If the clutch pedal height or clevis pin play are 
rot within the standard values, adjust as follows:  

DRIVETRAIN 7-13 
27. Shde the transaxle rearward and carefully 
lower it from the vehicle. 
To install: 28. After the torque converter has been mounted 
on the transaxle, install the transaxle assembly to the 
engine. Install the mounting bolts and tighten to 35 
ft. Ibs. (48 Nm). 
29. Install the transaxle lower coupling bolt and 
tighten to 21-25 ft Ibs. (29-34 Nm). 
30. Connect the torque converter to the flexplate 
and tighten the bolts to 33-38 ft. Ibs. (45-52 Nm). 
31. Install the cover to the transaxle bellhous- 
ing and tighten the mounting bolts to 7 ft. Ibs. (9 
Nm). 
32 Install the crossmember and tighten the front 
mounting bolts to 65 ft. Ibs (88 Nm) and the rear 
bolt to 54 ft. Ibs. (73 Nm) Install the front engine roll 
stopper through-bolt and lightly tighten. Once the full 
weight of the engine is on the mounts, tighten the ’ 
bolt to 42 ft. Ibs. (57 Nm), 
33. Install the triangular stay bracket and tighten 
the mounting bolts to 65 ft. Ibs. (88 Nm). 
34. Install the halfshafts, using new circlips on 
the axle ends. 
When installing the axleshaft, keep the in- 
board joint straight in relation to the axle, so 
as not to damage the oil seal lip of the 
transaxle with the serrated part of the half- 
shaft. 
35. Connect the tie rod and ball joints to the 
steering knuckle. Tighten the ball joint self-locking 
nuts to 48 ft. Ibs. (65 Nm). Tighten the tie rod end nut 
to 21 ft. Ibs. (28 Nm) and secure with a new cotter 
pin. 
36. Connect the damper fork to the lower control 
arm and tighten the through-bolt to 65 ft Ibs. (88 
Nm). 
37. Connect the stabilizer link to the damper fork, 
and tighten the self-locking nut to 29 ft. Ibs. (39 Nm). 
38. Install the undercover. 
39. Install the wheels and carefully lower the ve- 
hicle 
40. Install the transaxle mount bracket to the 
transaxle, and tighten the mounting nuts to 32 ft. Ibs. 
(43 Nm). 
41. Install the rear roll stopper mounting bracket. 
42. Remove the engine support. Tighten the 
transaxle mount through-bolt to 51 ft. Ibs. (69 Nm) 
and tighten the front engine roll stopper through-bolt. 
43. Install the upper transaxle mounting bolts 
and tighten to 35 fl. Ibs. (48 Nm). 
44. Install the starter motor. 
45. Install the dipstick tube and the dipstick 
46. Install the shifter cable mounting bracket. 
47. Connect the shifter lever and tighten the re- 
taining nut to 14 ft. Ibs. (19 Nm). 
48. Connect the oil cooler lines and secure with 
clamps. 
49. Attach the electrical connectors for the 
speedometer, solenoid, neutral safety switch (in-, 
hibitor switch), the pulse generator, kickdown servo 
switch and oil temperature sensor. 
50. Install the air cleaner and the air intake hose. 
51. Connect the negative battery cable. 
52. Make sure the vehicle is level, and refill the 
transaxle. Start the engine and allow to idle for 2 minutes. Apply parking brake and move selector 
through each gear position, ending in N. Recheck 
fluid level and add if necessary. Fluid level should be 
between the marks in the HOT range. 
53. Check the transaxle for proper operation. 
Make sure the reverse lights come on when in re- 
verse and the engine starts only in 
P or N. 
Mirage 
*If the vehicle is going to be rolled on its 
wheels while the halfshafts are out of the ve- 
hicle, obtain two outer CV-joints or proper 
equivalent tools and install to the hubs. If the 
vehicle is rolled without the proper torque 
applied to the front wheel bearings, the bear- 
ings will no longer be usable. 
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable then 
the positive battery cable. 
2. Remove the battery and battery tray. 
3. Remove the air hose and air cleaner assem- 
bly. 
4. Raise the vehicle and support safely. 
5. Remove the under guard pan. 
6. Drain the transaxle oil into a suitable con- 
tainer. 
7. If equipped with 1.6L engine, remove the ten- 
sion rod. 
8. Disconnect the control cable and cooler 
lines. 
9. On 3-speed transaxles, disconnect the throt- 
tle control cable. 
10. On 4-speed transaxles, perform the following: 
a. Detach the shift control solenoid valve 
connector. 
b. Disconnect the inhibitor switch and kick- 
down servo switch. 
c. Disconnect the pulse generator and oil 
temperature sensor. 
11. Disconnect the speedometer cable and re- 
move the starter. 
12. Remove the transaxle mounting bolts and 
bracket. 
13. Disconnect the stabilizer bar from the lower 
control arm. 
14. Disconnect the steering tie rod end and the 
ball joint from the steering arm. 
15. Remove the halfshafts at the inboard side 
from the transaxle. Tie the joint assembly aside. 
*It is not necessary to disconnect the half- 
shafts from the wheel hubs. 
16. Support the engine and remove the center 
member. 
17. Remove the bellhousing cover and remove 
the driveplate bolts. 
18 Remove the transaxle assembly lower con- 
necting bolt, located just over the halfshaft opening. 
19. Properly support the transaxle assembly, then 
lower it, moving it to the right for clearance. 
To install: 20. After the torque converter has been mounted 
on the transaxle, install the transaxle assembly on the 
engine. Install the mounting bolts and tighten to 
31-40 ft. Ibs. (43-55 Nm) on 1990-92 models and 
35 ft. Ibs. (48 Nm) on 1993-00 models. 
21. Tighten the driveplate bolts to 33-38 ft. Ibs. 
(46-53 Nm). Install the bellhousing cover. 
22. Install the center member. 23. Replace the circlips and install the halfshafts 
to the transaxle. 
24. Install the tie rods, ball joints and stabilizer 
links to the steering arm 
25. Install the transaxle mounting bracket and 
bolts. 
26. Install the starter. 
27. Connect the speedometer cable. 
28. Connect the inhibitor switch, kickdown servo 
switch, the pulse generator and oil temperature sen- 
sor, if disconnected. 
29. Connect the shift control solenoid valve con- 
nector. 
30. Connect the control cables and oil cooler 
lines. 
31. Install the tension rod, if removed. 
32. Install the air cleaner assembly. 
33. Install the battery tray and battery. 
34. Connect the positive then the negative termi- 
nal. 
35. Refill with Dexron@ II, Mopar ATF Plus type 
7176 or equivalent, automatic transaxle fluid. 
36. Start the engine and allow to idle for two min- 
utes. Apply parking brake and move selector through 
each gear position, ending in N. Recheck fluid level 
and add if necessary. Fluid level should be between 
the marks in the HOT range. 
ADJUSTMENTS 
Shifter Control Cable Adjustment 
1. The shifter cable adjustment is done at the 
neutral safety switch (inhibitor switch). Locate the 
switch on the transaxle and note the alignment holes 
in the arm and the body of the switch. Place the se- 
lector lever in N. Place the manual lever of the 
transaxle in the neutral position. 
2. Check alignment of the hole in the manual 
control lever to the hole in the inhibitor switch body. 
If the holes do not align, adjustment is required. 
3. To adjust, loosen the nut on the cable end and 
pull the cable end by hand until the alignment holes 
match. Tighten the nut. Check that the transaxle 
shifts and conforms to the positions of the selector 
lever. 
Throttle Valve Cable 
The throttle valve adjustment applies only to the 
1990-96 Mirage. 
1. Place selector lever and manual control lever 
in N position. 
2. Loosen adjusting nut. While lightly pulling on 
control cable tighten mounting nut to 7-10 ft. Ibs. 
(X-14 Nm). 
3. When adjustment is complete, be sure selector 
lever is still in the N position. Verify all functions 
correspond to the position indicated on the selector 
lever. 
The halfshaft removal and installation and over- 
haul are the same as a manual transaxle Please refer 
to Manual Transaxle in this Section  

WHEELS 8-2 
WHEEL ASSEMBLY 8-2 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-2 
INSPECTION 8-2 
WHEELLUG STUDS 8-2 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-2 
FRONT SUSPENSION 8-4 
MACPHERSONSTRUTAND COIL 
SPRING 8-7 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-7 
OVERHAUL 8-7 
SHOCKABSORBERAND COIL 
SPRING 8-8 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-8 
OVERHAUL 8-9 
UPPER BALLJOINT 8-9 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-9 
INSPECTION 8-9 
UPPER CONTROLARM 8-10 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-10 
LOWER BALLJOINT 8-10 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-10 
INSPECTION 8-10 
LOWER CONTROL ARM 8-10 
REMOVAL&INSTALLATION 8-10 
SWAY BAR 8-12 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-12 
KNUCKLE, HUB, AND BEARING 8-13 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-13 
WHEEL ALIGNMENT 8-16 
CASTER 8-16 
CAMBER 8-17 
TOE 8-17 
REAR SUSPENSION 8-18 
STRUT AND COIL SPRING 8-21 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-21 
OVERHAUL 8-22 
UPPER CONTROLARMS 8-22 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-22 
LOWER CONTROL ARMS 8-23 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-23 
TRAINING ARM 8-24 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-24 
SWAY BAR 8-25 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-25 
HUB & BEARINGS 8-25 
ADJUSTMENT 8-25 
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-25 
STEERING 8-27 
STEERING WHEEL 8-27 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-27 
COMBINATION SWITCH 8-29 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-29 
WINDSHIELD WIPER SWITCH 8-29 
REMOVAL&INSTALLATION 8-29 
IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER 8-29 ' 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-29 
IGNITION SWITCH 8-30 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-30 
STEERING LINKAGE 8-30 
REMOVAL&INSTALLATION 8-30 
MANUAL RACK AND PINION STEERING 
GEAR 8-31 REMOVAL & INSTALLATION 8-31 
POWER RACK AND PINION STEERING 
GEAR 8-32 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-32 
POWERSTEERING PUMP 8-34 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION 8-34 
SYSTEM BLEEDING 8-36 
COMPONENT LOCATIONS 
FRONTSUSPENSION COMPONENT 
LOCATIONS 8-4 
REARSUSPENSION COMPONENT 
LOCATIONS 8-18 
SPECIFICATIONS CHARTS ’ 
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS 8-39  

SUSPENSION AND STEERING 8-7 
1 Cotter p,n 
2 Drive shaft 
3 Washer 
4 Caliper assembly connecf~on 
5 Self-IockIng ““f 
6 Lower arm ball ,Ol”f Connectlo” 
7 cotter PI” 
8 T,e rod end connectton 
9 Drive Shaft 
10 Strut assembly connection 
11 Hub and knuckle 
1990-92 Mirage front suspension components 
- 
1 Cutter PI” 
2 Drtve shaft 
3 Washer 
4 Ca,,perassembly connect~o” 
5 Self-locking nut 
6 Lower arm ball ,o,nt connection 
7 cotter PI” 
8 Tie rod end connection 
9 Dwe shaft 
10 Strut assembly connection 
11 Hub and knuckie 
Diamante front suspension components 
1 
to knuckle bolts Use a piece of wire to suspend the 
knuckle to keep the weight off the brake hose. 
6. If equipped with Active Electronrc Control 
Suspension (Active-ECS) perform the followrng: 
REMOVAL &INSTALLATION a. Loosen the nut that secures the an line to 
the to the too of the strut and discard the O-ring. 
Diamante, 1990-93 Galant, and 1999-00 
Galant 
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. 
2. Raise and safely support the vehicle. 
3. Remove the brake hose and the tube bracket. 
40 not pry the brake hose and tube clamp 
awav when removino it. 
b. Remove the bolts that secure the actuator 
to the top of the strut and remove the compo- 
nent. Disconnect the wiring harness. 
*Before removing the top bolts, make 
matchmarks on the body and the strut insula- 
tor for proper reassembly. 
7. Remove the strut upper nuts and remove the 
strut assemblv from the vehicle. 
4. If equipped with ABS, disconnect the front 
speed sensor mounting clamp from the strut. 
5. Support the lower arm and remove the strut 
To instalf: 8. Install the strut to the vehicle and tighten the 
upper mounting nuts to 33 ft. Ibs. (45 Nm) 
9 Align the strut to the knuckle and connect with the mounting bolts. Tighten the mounting bolts 
to 70-76 ft. Ibs. (90-105 Nm). 
10. If equipped with Active-ECS, perform the fol- 
lowing, 
a. Install the air line with a new O-ring. 
b Install the actuator to the top of the strut 
Connect the wiring harness. 
11. Install the brake hose bracket and the ABS 
clamp, if equipped. 
12. Install the wheel and tire assembly. 
13. Have a front end alignment performed. 
Mirage 
# See Figure 11 
1, Disconnect the negative battery cable. 
2. Raise and safely support vehicle. 
3. Remove the brake hose and tube bracket re- 
tainer bolt and bracket from the front strut. Do not pry 
the brake hose and tube clamp away when removrng. 
4. If equipped with ABS, disconnect the front 
speed sensor mounting clamp from the strut. 
5. Support the lower arm usmg floor jack or 
equivalent Remove the lower strut to knuckle bolts. 
*Before removing the top bolts, make 
matchmarks on the body and the strut insula- 
tor for proper reassembly. 
6. Remove the strut upper mounting bolts. 
7. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle. 
To install: 8. Install the strut to the vehicle and install the 
top mounting bolts, Tighten the mountrng bolts to 29 
ft. Ibs. (40 Nm) 
9. Position the strut on the knuckle and mstall 
the mounting bolts, While holdrng the head of the 
lower mounting bolt, tighten the nuts to 80-94 ft. Ibs. 
(110-130 Nm). 
10. Install the brake hose bracket and the ABS 
clamp, if equipped 
11 Install the wheel and tire assembly 
12. Have a front end alignment performed. 
OVERHAUL 
) See Figures 12 thru 22 
1. Remove the strut assembly from the vehicle, as 
outlined earlier in this Section. 
2. Mount the strut assembly into a suitable 
spring compressor. 
3. Compress the strut approximately r/a its height 
after initial contact with the top cap. 
Never bottom the spring or dampener rod! 
4. Remove the center nut from the strut and re- 
move the upper mounting bracket and bushings. 
5. Remove the coil spring. 
To install: 6. Install the compressed spring on the strut as- 
sembly. 
7. Install the upper bushings and the mounting 
bracket Install the nut and tighten it to 43 ft. Ibs. (59 
Nm). 
8. Remove the strut from the spring compressor. 
9. Install the strut into the vehrcle