ENGINE INDEX
page page
Engine Oil Filter .......................... 9
Battery ................................ 15
Crankcase Ventilation System ............... 13
Drive Belts ............................. 14
Emission Control System ................... 14
Engine Air Cleaner ....................... 11
Engine Cooling System .................... 10 Engine Oil
............................... 8
Frequency of Engine Oil and Filter Changes ..... 8
Fuel Filter .............................. 14
Fuel Recommendations .................... 14
Ignition Cables, Distributor Cap, and Rotor ..... 14
Rubber and Plastic Component Inspection ...... 15
Spark Plugs ............................ 14
FREQUENCY OF ENGINE OIL AND FILTER
CHANGES
ENGINE OIL
Road conditions as well as your kind of driving af-
fect the interval at which your oil should be changed.
Check the following to determine if any apply to you:
² Frequent short trip driving less than 8 kilometers
(5 miles)
² Frequent driving in dusty conditions
² Frequent trailer towing
² Extensive idling (such as vehicle operation in stop
and go traffic)
² More than 50% of your driving is at sustained
high speeds during hot weather, above 32ÉC (90ÉF) If any of these apply to you then change your en-
gine oil every 4 800 kilometers (3,000 miles) or 3
months, whichever comes first. If none of these apply to you then change your oil
every 12 000 kilometers (7,500 miles) or 6 months,
whichever comes first. If none of these apply and the vehicle is in com-
mercial type service such as, Police, Taxi or Limou-
sine and principally used for highway driving of 40
kilometers (25 miles) or more between stations, the
engine oil should be changed every 8 000 kilometers
(5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES
Flexible fuel is corrosive and contributes to engine
oil contamination. When flexible fuel is being used,
the engine oil should be changed every 8 000 kilome-
ters (5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
OIL FILTER
The engine oil filter should be replaced with a new
filter at every second oil change.
ENGINE OIL
WARNING: NEW OR USED ENGINE OIL CAN BE IR-
RITATING TO THE SKIN. AVOID PROLONGED OR
REPEATED SKIN CONTACT WITH ENGINE OIL.
CONTAMINANTS IN USED ENGINE OIL, CAUSED
BY INTERNAL COMBUSTION, CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH. THOROUGHLY WASH EX-
POSED SKIN WITH SOAP AND WATER. DO NOT WASH SKIN WITH GASOLINE, DIESEL
FUEL, THINNER, OR SOLVENTS, HEALTH PROB-
LEMS CAN RESULT. DO NOT POLLUTE, DISPOSE OF USED ENGINE
OIL PROPERLY. CONTACT YOUR DEALER OR
GOVERNMENT AGENCY FOR LOCATION OF COL-
LECTION CENTER IN YOUR AREA.
BREAK-IN PERIOD
CAUTION: Wide open throttle operation in low
gears, before engine break-in period is complete,
can damage engine.
On a Chrysler Corporation vehicle an extended
break-in period is not required. Driving speeds of not
over 80-90 km/h (50-55 mph) for the first 100 km (60
miles) is recommended. Hard acceleration and high
engine rpm in lower gears should be avoided.
SELECTING ENGINE OIL
CAUTION: Do not use non-detergent or straight
mineral oil when adding or changing crankcase lu-
bricant. Engine or Turbocharger failure can result.
The factory fill engine oil is a high quality, energy
conserving, crankcase lubricant. The Recommended
SAE Viscosity Grades chart defines the viscosity
grades that must be used based on temperature in
the region where vehicle is operated and optional
equipment.
NON-FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES Chrysler Corporation recommends that Mopar mo-
tor oil, or equivalent, be used when adding or chang-
ing crankcase lubricant. The API symbol (Fig. 1) on
the container indicates the viscosity grade, quality
and fuel economy ratings of the lubricant it contains.
Use ENERGY CONSERVING II motor oil with API
SERVICE SG or SG/CD classification.
0 - 8 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE Ä
² SG service engine oil is a high quality crankcase
lubricant designed for use in all naturally aspirated
engines. If SG service engine oil is used in turbo-
charged engine, change engine oil at every 4 800
km (3,000 miles) or three months.
² SG/CD service engine oil is a high quality crank-
case lubricant designed for use in most naturally as-
pirated and turbocharged gasoline or diesel engines.
FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES
Vehicles operated using Flexible Fuel (M85) re-
quire engine oil that meet or exceed Chrysler Stan-
dard MS-9214. Mopar Flexible Fuel engine oil or
equivalent should be used when adding or changing
crankcase lubricant. The API symbol (Fig. 1) on the
container indicates the viscosity grade, quality and
fuel economy ratings of the lubricant it contains. Use
ENERGY CONSERVING II motor oil with API SER-
VICE SG or SG/CD classification.
ENGINE OIL ADDITIVES
Chrysler Corporation recommends that Mopar En-
gine Oil Supplement or equivalent be used when fric-
tion and corrosion reducing materials added to the
crankcase lubricant is desired.
CRANKCASE OIL LEVEL INSPECTION
CAUTION: Do not overfill crankcase with engine oil,
oil foaming and oil pressure loss can result.
Inspect engine oil level approximately every 800
kilometers (500 miles). Position vehicle on level sur- face. With engine OFF, allow enough time for oil to
settle to bottom of crankcase, remove engine oil level
indicator (dipstick) and wipe clean. Install dipstick
and verify it is seated in the tube. Remove dipstick,
with handle above tip, take oil level reading (Fig. 2).
Add oil only if level is below MIN or ADD mark on
dipstick.
ENGINE OIL CHANGE
Change engine oil at mileage and time intervals
described in Lubrication and Maintenance Schedules.
Position the vehicle on a level surface. Hoist and
support vehicle on safety stands. Refer to Hoisting
and Jacking Recommendations in this group. Place a
suitable 3.8 liter (4 qt.) drain pan under crankcase
drain. Remove drain plug from crankcase. Inspect
drain plug threads for stretching or other damage.
Replace drain plug and gasket if damaged. Install
drain plug in crankcase. Lower vehicle and fill
crankcase with specified type and amount of engine
oil described in this section. Start engine and inspect
for leaks. Stop engine and inspect oil level.
ENGINE OIL FILTER
SELECTING OIL FILTER
Chrysler Corporation recommends a Mopar or
equivalent oil filter be used when replacement is re-
quired. A replacement filter must be designed to
withstand 1756 kPa (256 psi) of internal pressure.
OIL FILTER REPLACEMENT
Position a drain pan under the oil filter. Using a
suitable oil filter wrench (Fig. 3) loosen filter. When
filter separates from adapter nipple, tip gasket end
upward to minimize oil spill. Remove filter from ve-
hicle. With a wiping cloth, clean the gasket sealing
surface (Fig. 4) of oil and grime. Wipe off oil residue
from below oil filter adapter.
TO INSTALL NEW OIL FILTER: Lightly lubricate oil filter gasket with engine oil or
chassis grease. Thread filter onto adapter nipple.
When gasket makes contact with sealing surface,
tighten filter one full turn. If necessary use a filter
wrench, do not over tighten. Add oil, verify crank-
case oil level and start engine. Inspect for oil leaks.
RECOMMENDED VISCOSITY GRADES
Fig. 1 API Symbol
Fig. 2 Oil Level Indicator DipstickÐTypical
Ä LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 9
CRANKCASE VENTILATION SYSTEM
Engine crankcase pressure and emissions are
vented into combustion chambers through the posi-
tive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system. The PCV
system consists of a crankcase filter (Fig. 6, 7, 8, 9,
or 10), PCV valve (Fig. 12, 13, 14 or 15) and hoses to
complete a vacuum circuit. The PCV system should
have enough volume to overcome crankcase pressure
created by piston backwash. If a PCV system be-
comes plugged, the crankcase pressure will increase
and force engine oil past the piston rings creating oil
consumption. Blockage of PCV system can occur at
the vacuum source coupling, PCV valve, crankcase
filter or a collapsed hose. Chrysler Corporation recommends that a PCV
valve not be cleaned. A new Mopar or equivalent
PCV valve should be installed when servicing is re-
quired. Over a period of time, depending on the en-
vironment where vehicle is used, deposits build up in
the PCV vacuum circuit. PCV system should be in-
spected at every oil change. Service PCV system if
engine oil is discharged into air cleaner.
Fig. 11 Cleaning Air Filter Element
Fig. 12 PCV SystemÐ3.0L Engine
Fig. 13 PCV SystemÐFlexible Fuel Engine
Fig. 14 PCV SystemÐ3.3L or 3.8L Engine
Fig. 15 PCV SystemÐ2.2L or 2.5L EFI Engine
Ä LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 13
DRIVETRAIN INDEX
page page
Automatic Transaxle ...................... 16
Automatic Transaxle Floor Shift .............. 16
Clutch and Gearshift Linkage ............... 16
Drive Shaft Cv and Tripod Joint Boots ........ 17 Front Wheel Bearings
..................... 17
Manual Transaxle ........................ 16
Tires .................................. 17
CLUTCH AND GEARSHIFT LINKAGE
If the clutch or gearshift begins to operate with dif-
ficulty, squeak or grunt, the cables and linkage
should be lubricated before service replacement is
performed. For proper lubrication and service proce-
dures refer to Group 6, Clutch, or Group 21, Manual
Transaxle.
MANUAL TRANSAXLE
The manual transaxle should be inspected for oil
leaks and proper oil level when other under vehicle
service is performed. To inspect the transaxle oil
level, position the vehicle on a level surface. Remove
fill plug (Fig. 1) from the transaxle side cover. The
oil level should not be below 4 mm (3/16 in) from the
bottom of the oil fill opening. The manual transaxle does not require periodic
maintenance. The oil should be changed only when
water contamination is suspected. If oil has a foamy
or milky appearance it probably is contaminated. A
circular magnet located behind the differential cover
collects metallic particles circulating in the oil. For
proper diagnostic and service procedures, refer to
Group 21, Manual Transaxle.
SELECTING MANUAL TRANSAXLE OIL
Chrysler Corporation recommends Mopar Engine
Oil, SG or SG/CD SAE 5W-30, or equivalent, be used
to fill a 5-speed transaxle.
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLOOR SHIFT
If the automatic transaxle floor shift mechanism
becomes difficult to operate or starts to make objec-
tionable noise, the mechanism should be lubricated
before service repair is performed. To lubricate the
shift mechanism, remove console as necessary. Refer
to Group 23, Body. Apply a film of Mopar Multipur-
pose Grease or equivalent, to slide surfaces and pawl
spring. For additional information, refer to Group 21,
Transaxle.
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
The automatic transaxle should be inspected for
fluid leaks and proper fluid level when other under
hood service is performed.
CAUTION: To minimize fluid contamination, verify
that dipstick is seated in the fill hole or tube after
fluid level reading is taken.
TO INSPECT THE TRANSAXLE FLUID LEVEL: (1) Position the vehicle on a level surface.
(2) Start engine and allow to idle in PARK for at
least 60 seconds. The warmer the transaxle fluid, the
more accurate the reading. (3) While sitting in driver seat, apply brakes and
place gear selector in each position. Return gear se-
lector to park. (4) Raise hood and remove transaxle fluid level in-
dicator (dipstick) and wipe clean with a suitable
cloth. (5) Install dipstick and verify it is seated in fill
hole or tube (Fig. 2 or 3).
CAUTION: Do not overfill automatic transaxle, leak-
age or damage can result.
(6) Remove dipstick, with handle above tip, take
fluid level reading (Fig. 4). If the vehicle has been
driven for at least 15 minutes before inspecting fluid
level, transaxle can be considered hot and reading
should be above the WARM mark. If vehicle has run
for less than 15 minutes and more than 60 seconds
transaxle can be considered warm and reading
Fig. 1 Manual Transaxle Fill Plug
0 - 16 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE Ä
should be above ADD mark. Add fluid only if level is
below ADD mark on dipstick when transaxle is
warm.The automatic transaxle does not require periodic
maintenance when used for general transportation. If
the vehicle is subjected to severe service conditions,
the automatic transaxle will require fluid/filter
change and band adjustments every 24 000 km
(15,000 miles). For additional information, refer to
Severe Service paragraph and Lubrication and Main-
tenance Schedules in General Information section of
this group. The fluid and filter should be changed
when water contamination is suspected. If fluid has
foamy or milky appearance, it is probably contami-
nated. If the fluid appears brown or dark and a foul
odor is apparent, the fluid is burned, transaxle re-
quires maintenance or service. A circular magnet lo-
cated in the transaxle pan, collects metallic particles
circulating in the oil. For proper diagnostic and ser-
vice procedures, refer to Group 21, Automatic Tran-
saxle.
SELECTING AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID
Chrysler Corporation recommends Mopar ATF Plus
(automatic transmission fluid type 7176) be used to
add to or replace automatic transaxle fluid. If ATF
Plus is not available use Mopar Dexron II tAuto-
matic Transmission Fluid or equivalent.
DRIVE SHAFT CV AND TRIPOD JOINT BOOTS
The front drive shaft constant velocity and tripod
joint boots (Fig. 5) should be inspected when other
under vehicle service is performed. Inspect boots for
cracking, tears, leaks or other defects. If service re-
pair is required, refer to Group 2, Suspension.
FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS
The front wheel bearings are permanently sealed,
requiring no lubrication. For proper diagnostic and
service procedures refer to Group 2, Suspension.
TIRES
The tires should be inspected at every engine oil
change for proper inflation and condition. The tires
should be rotated at the distance intervals described
in the Lubrication and Maintenance Schedules of the
General Information section in this group. For tire
inflation specifications refer to the Owner's Manual.
A Tire Inflation sticker is located in the driver door
opening. For proper diagnostic procedures, see Group
22, Wheels and Tires.Fig. 2 3-speed Automatic Transaxle Fill hole
Fig. 3 4-speed Automatic Transaxle Fill tube
Fig. 4 Automatic Transaxle DipstickÐTypical
Fig. 5 Drive Shaft Boots
Ä LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 17
BRAKE RESERVOIR LEVEL INSPECTION
WARNING: DO NOT ALLOW PETROLEUM OR WATER
BASE LIQUIDS TO CONTAMINATE BRAKE FLUID,
SEAL DAMAGE AND BRAKE FAILURE CAN RESULT.
RELIEVE PRESSURE IN ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYS-
TEM BEFORE ADDING BRAKE FLUID TO RESER-
VOIR. IF NOT, BRAKE FLUID COULD DISCHARGED
FROM THE RESERVOIR POSSIBLY CAUSING PER-
SONAL INJURY.
The brake reservoir level should be inspected when
other under hood service is performed. It is normal
for the reservoir level to drop as disc brake pads
wear. When fluid must be added, use Mopar, Brake
Fluid or equivalent. Use only brake fluid conforming
to DOT 3, Federal, Department of Transportation
specification. To avoid brake fluid contamination, use
fluid from a properly sealed container. On vehicles with anti-lock brakes, depressurize the
system before inspecting fluid level. Turn OFF the
ignition and remove the key. Pump the brake pedal
at least 50 times to relieve the pressure in the sys-
tem.
On all vehicles, if fluid should become low after sev-
eral thousand kilometers (miles), fill the reservoir to
level marks on the side of the reservoir (Fig. 8 or 9).
HEADLAMPS
The headlamps should be inspected for intensity
and aim whenever a problem is suspected. When lug-
gage compartment is heavily loaded, the headlamp
aim should be adjusted to compensate for vehicle
height change. For proper service procedures, refer to
Group 8L, Lamps. DRIVER SUPPLEMENTAL AIRBAG SYSTEM
If the AIRBAG indicator lamp does not light at all,
stays lit or lights momentarily or continuously while
driving, a malfunction may have occurred. Prompt service is required. Refer to Group 8M, Restraint
Systems for proper diagnostic procedures.
BODY LUBRICATION
Body mechanisms and linkages should be inspected,
cleaned and lubricated as required to maintain ease of
operation and to prevent corrosion and wear. Before a component is lubricated, oil, grease and dirt
should be wiped off. If necessary, use solvent to clean
component to be lubricated. After lubrication is com-
plete, wipe off excess grease or oil. During winter season, external lock cylinders should
be lubricated with Mopar, Lock Lubricant or equiva-
lent to ensure proper operation when exposed to water
and ice. To assure proper hood latching component operation,
use engine oil to lubricate the lock, safety catch and
hood hinges when other under hood service is per-
formed. Mopar, Multi-purpose Grease or equivalent
should be applied sparingly to all pivot and slide
contact areas.
USE ENGINE OIL ON:
² Door hingesÐHinge pin and pivot points.
² Hood hingesÐPivot points.
² Luggage compartment lid hingesÐPivot points.
USE MOPAR LUBRIPLATE OR EQUIVALENT ON:
² Door check straps.
² Hood counterbalance springs.
² Luggage compartment lid latches.
² Luggage compartment lid prop rod pivots.
² Ash tray slides.
² Fuel Fill Door latch mechanism.
² Park brake mechanism.
² Front seat tracks.
Fig. 8 Anti-lock Brake Reservoir
Fig. 9 Master Cylinder Brake ReservoirÐExcept
Anti-lock
0 - 22 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE Ä
FRONT SUSPENSION SERVICE PROCEDURES INDEX
page page
Ball Joints .............................. 13
Hub and Bearing Assembly ................. 20
Knuckle (Front Suspension) ................. 16
Lower Control Arm ....................... 10
Lower Control Arm Pivot Bushings ........... 11 Shock Absorbers (Strut Damper)
............. 10
Strut Damper Assembly ..................... 7
Suspension Coil Springs .................... 9
Sway Bar .............................. 14
Wheel Alignment .......................... 5
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Front wheel alignment is the proper adjustment of
all interrelated front suspension angles. These angles
are what affects the running and steering of the
front wheels of the vehicle. The method of checking front alignment will vary
depending on the type of equipment being used. The
instructions furnished by the manufacturer of the
equipment should always be followed. With the ex-
ception that the alignment specifications recom-
mended by Chrysler Corporation be used. There are six basic factors which are the founda-
tion to front wheel alignment. These are height,
caster, camber, toe-in, steering axis inclination and
toe-out on turns. Of the six basic factors only camber
and toe in are mechanically adjustable (Fig. 1)
CAUTION: Do not attempt to modify any suspen-
sion or steering components by heating or bending
of the component.
Wheel alignment adjustments and checks should be
made in the following sequence. (1) Camber
(2) Toe
Camber is the number of degrees the top of the
wheel is tilted inward or outward from true vertical.
Inward tilt is negative camber. Outward tilt is posi-
tive camber. Excessive camber is a tire wear factor: negative
camber causes wear on the inside of the tire, while
positive camber causes wear to the outside. Toe
is measured in degrees or inches and is the
distance the front edges of the tires are closer (or far-
ther apart) than the rear edges. See Front Wheel
Drive Specifications for Toesettings.
PRE-ALIGNMENT
Before any attempt is made to change or correct
the wheel alignment factors. The following inspection
and necessary corrections must be made on those
parts which influence the steering of the vehicle. (1) Check and inflate tires to recommended pres-
sure. All tires should be the same size and in good
condition and have approximately the same wear.
Note type of tread wear which will aid in diagnosing,
see Wheels and Tires, Group 22. (2) Check front wheel and tire assembly for radial
runout. (3) Inspect lower ball joints and all steering link-
age for looseness. (4) Check for broken or sagged front and rear
springs. Front suspension must only be checked after the
vehicle has had the following checked or adjusted.
Tires set to recommended pressures, full tank of fuel,
no passenger or luggage compartment load and is on
a level floor or alignment rack. Just prior to each alignment reading. The vehicle
should be bounced (rear first, then front) by grasping
bumper at center and jouncing each end an equal
number of times. Always release bumpers at bottom
of down cycle.
Ä SUSPENSION AND DRIVESHAFTS 2 - 5
to the road surface. While being able to twist as one
wheel moves vertically with respect to the other.Roll resistance is provided partly by the axle's re-
sistance to twist. But primarily by a torque tube or
rod (depending on the suspension option called for)
running through the channel and attached rigidly to
its end plates by welding. Because the torque tube/
rod is an integral part of the axle assembly, it cannot
be individually replaced. The spindles are bolted to the axle end (spindle
mounting) plates and can be individually replaced if
required. Rear wheel alignment changes require the
use of shims between the spindle and axle end plates.
SHOCK ABSORBERS
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle, see Hoisting, Group 0.
(2) Support axle and remove wheel and tire assem-
bly. (3) If equipped with air shocks, disconnect air
lines. (4) Remove upper and lower shock absorber fasten-
ers, remove shock absorbers (Fig. 2).
INSPECTION
Inspect for evidence of fluid leakage from upper
end of reservoir. (Actual leakage will be a stream of
fluid running down and leaking off lower end). Slight
seepage is not unusual and will not effect perfor-
mance.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position shock absorber on car. Install upper
and lower fasteners loosely to hold shock absorber in
place. (2) Tighten upper fastener to 61 N Im (45 ft. lbs.)
torque. Connect air line, if so equipped. (3) Install wheel and tire assembly, tighten wheel
stud nuts to 129 N Im (95 ft. lbs.) torque. Lower vehi-
cle to ground. (4) With suspension supporting the weight of the
vehicle. Tighten lower shock absorber fastener to 54
N Im (40 ft. lbs.) torque.
COIL SPRINGS AND JOUNCE BUMPER
REMOVAL
(1) Lift vehicle see hoisting Group 0.
(2) Support axle assembly and remove both lower
shock absorber attaching bolts. (3) Lower axle assembly until spring and spring
upper isolator can be removed (Fig. 3). Do not
stretch brake hose. (4) Remove two screws holding cup to rail (Fig. 1).
Remove assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position cup to rail. Install and tighten attach-
ing bolts to 8 N Im (70 in. lbs.) torque.
(2) Install isolator over jounce bumper and install
spring. (3) Raise axle and loosely assemble both shock ab-
sorber to axle mounting bolts. Remove axle support
and lower vehicle. (4) With suspension supporting the weight of the
vehicle. Tighten both shock absorber attaching bolts
to 61 N Im (45 ft. lbs.) torque.
Fig. 2 Remove/Install Shock Absorber Fasteners
Fig. 3 Coil Spring & Jounce Bumper
Ä SUSPENSION AND DRIVESHAFTS 2 - 51