🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Year: 1996-1997 Codes Chassis Code: NS Platform (Second Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Dodge Caravan was a pioneering minivan, establishing and dominating the segment. This manual reflects its critical role in family transportation. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Primary competitors included the Plymouth Voyager (virtually identical sibling), Ford Windstar, and Chevrolet Lumina APV/Venture. Key Features Vehicle Appeal: Known for its spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, and comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for families. Manual Value Proposition Value: This manual provides dealership-level expertise, enabling owners and independent technicians to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, saving significant cost compared to dealership labor. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Page Count Page Count: Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but implied extensive coverage) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Likely Printed (typical for dealership manuals of this era) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for all engine variants, including cylinder head, block, pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing systems. Engine Performance: Diagnosis and repair of engine performance issues, including fuel injection, ignition system, emissions controls, and cooling system. Fuel System: Service and repair of fuel tanks, pumps, lines, filters, and fuel injection systems (MPI). Cooling System: Repair and maintenance of radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and cooling fan systems. Exhaust System: Inspection, repair, and replacement of exhaust manifolds, pipes, catalytic converters, and mufflers. Transmission Automatic: Complete service, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions, including torque converter, valve body, and gearsets. Transmission Manual: Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions, including clutch system and gearbox overhaul. Driveline And Axles: Repair and maintenance of front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, and rear axle assemblies (if applicable to specific models). Suspension System: Front and rear suspension diagnosis, repair, alignment specifications, and component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings). Steering System: Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (pump, rack and pinion, hoses). Brake System: Detailed coverage of hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), ABS system diagnosis and repair, disc and drum brake service, parking brake. Electrical System: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of starting and charging systems, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and body control modules. HVAC System: Diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and controls. Body And Frame: Exterior and interior trim removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, body panel repair, and structural information. Body Control Modules: Diagnosis and repair related to body control modules (BCM) and related sensors/actuators. Safety Restraint System: Service and safety precautions for airbags and seatbelt systems. Procedures Included Preventive Maintenance: Detailed maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections, and lubrication points. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-to-cause charts, and fault code interpretations for various systems. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and repair for all vehicle systems. Component Rebuilds: Instructions for complete overhauls of major components like engines and transmissions. Diagnostics: Advanced diagnostic techniques, including use of scan tools and electrical testing equipment. Technical Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical parameters, and alignment data. Wiring Diagrams: Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Vehicle Specific - Exact Same Manual Used by Dealership Technicians Scope: Covers routine maintenance, complex diagnostics, and full component overhauls (A-Z). 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Assumed Print; if digital, likely PDF with searchable text. Print Quality Print Quality: High-quality, professional dealership-grade printing. Binding Type Binding Type: Likely Perfect Binding or Spiral Binding for durability and lay-flat use. Paper Type Paper Type: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.4L Inline-4 (DOHC), 3.0L V6 (SOHC), 3.3L V6 (OHV), 3.8L V6 (OHV) Performance 2 4L Horsepower 2 4L: Approx. 150 hp Torque 2 4L: Approx. 180 lb-ft Performance 3 0L V6 Horsepower 3 0L V6: Approx. 150 hp Torque 3 0L V6: Approx. 170 lb-ft Performance 3 3L V6 Horsepower 3 3L V6: Approx. 158 hp Torque 3 3L V6: Approx. 190 lb-ft Performance 3 8L V6 Horsepower 3 8L V6: Approx. 167-180 hp (depending on specific application/year within range) Torque 3 8L V6: Approx. 207-217 lb-ft (depending on specific application/year within range) Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor Ignition (depending on engine/trim) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Standard Trans: 4-Speed Automatic (e.g., A604, A670) Optional Transmission Optional Trans: Manual Transmission not typically offered on this generation, primarily automatic. Features Transmission Features: Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) for improved shift quality and fuel economy. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 112.1 inches (Standard Wheelbase), 119.3 inches...