🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse & Eclipse Spyder Generations Covered: 1st Generation Codes Platform Code: D30/D32/D38A (based on Mitsubishi Galant platform) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder (1st Generation) were popular compact sports coupes and convertibles, known for their stylish design, performance options (especially turbocharged models), and affordable entry point into the sports car market. They competed with vehicles like the Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, and Ford Probe. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6 Key Features Distinguishing Features: Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on turbo models, powerful 4G63T engine, sleek coupe and convertible body styles, sporty handling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Years Covered: 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 4G63 2.0L SOHC, 4G63T 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged, 6G72 3.0L SOHC V6 Transmission: 5-speed Manual (F5M33, W5M33), 4-speed Automatic (F4A22, F4A33) Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Active Transfer Clutch (ATC) Suspension: Front: MacPherson strut, Rear: Multi-link independent suspension Brakes: Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Discs (ABS optional on select models) Steering: Power-assisted rack and pinion Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) Electrical: Ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electronics, ECU diagnostics HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair Body And Trim: Exterior body panels, interior trim, convertible top mechanisms (Spyder) Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), component testing Repair: Engine repair (head gasket, timing belt), transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures Electrical Troubleshooting: Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component diagnosis Body Repair: Panel alignment, dent repair, convertible top repair Technical Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and detailed wiring diagrams. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans for clear text and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.0L SOHC (4G63), 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged (4G63T), 3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72) Performance 2.0L Sohc (4G63): Horsepower: ~135-145 hp, Torque: ~136-145 lb-ft 2.0L Turbocharged (4G63T): Horsepower: ~190-210 hp (GS-T/GST), Torque: ~203-214 lb-ft 3.0L V6 (6G72): Horsepower: ~150-160 hp, Torque: ~180-190 lb-ft Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) with Electronic Fuel Pump Fuel Type Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane (SOHC, V6), 91 Octane Premium Unleaded (Turbocharged 4G63T) Cooling System Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water Lubrication Oil Type: API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for exact spec based on climate) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission (F5M33 for 4-cyl, W5M33 for V6) Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (F4A22 for 4-cyl, F4A33 for V6) Features AWD Transfer Case: Active Transfer Clutch (ATC) system for AWD models, allowing variable torque distribution. Fluid Specifications Manual Trans Fluid: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check manual for specific capacity and type) Automatic Trans Fluid: Diamond SP-III or equivalent ATF (check manual for specific capacity and type) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 100.4 inches (2550 mm) Length: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) (Coupe), 178.3 inches (4529 mm) (Spyder) Width: 69.1 inches (1755 mm) Height: 50.4 inches (1280 mm) (Coupe), 50.0 inches (1270 mm) (Spyder) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 2900-3300 lbs (1315-1497 kg), varies by trim and drivetrain Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by model, typically around 4000 lbs Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 7.9 cu ft (Coupe), significantly less with top stowed (Spyder) Wheels And Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches) Tire Sizes: Common sizes include 205/55R16, 215/50R17 (check specific trim for exact size) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: Refer to NHTSA or IIHS archives for specific year and model ratings. Early models may have limited data. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on many trims, standard on some higher performance models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags standard on later models and many 1995+ models. Seatbelts: Front 3-point inertia reel seat belts. Spyder models feature reinforced A-pillars and roll-over protection. Structural Body Reinforcement: Reinforced chassis for coupe structure. Spyder models feature significant chassis bracing and A-pillar reinforcement for structural integrity. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD players. Premium Infinity audio systems were optional on higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on many models, optional on base trims. Traction Control: Traction Control System (TCL) was available as an option on select AWD models. Climate Control Air Conditioning: Manual or automatic...
D30/D32/D38A (based on Mitsubishi Galant platform)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eclipse Spyder (1st Generation) were popular compact sports coupes and convertibles, known for their stylish design, performance options (especially turbocharged models), and affordable entry point into the sports car market. They competed with vehicles like the Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, and Ford Probe.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe, Mazda MX-6
Key Features
Distinguishing Features:
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on turbo models, powerful 4G63T engine, sleek coupe and convertible body styles, sporty handling.
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and detailed wiring diagrams.
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts; rear multi-link bushings can deteriorate.
Electrical:
Corroded grounds, intermittent issues with power windows, door locks, and sensors. Check engine light due to O2 sensors or vacuum leaks.
Spyder Specific:
Convertible top mechanism issues (motors, hydraulic lines, seals), water leaks around seals and drains.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (Japan)
Model Evolution
First Generation Launch:
Introduced in 1990 for the 1990 model year, as a replacement for the Mitsubishi Starion and some aspects of the Mitsubishi Cordia. It was a joint venture with Chrysler Corporation for the North American market, sharing its platform with the Dodge Colt and Plymouth Laser.
Facelift:
Received a significant styling refresh for the 1995 model year, with updated front and rear fascias, revised interior, and improved powertrain options (the 3.0L V6 became more common, and the 4G63T was further refined).
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant, a joint venture with Chrysler)
Production Years For This Gen:
1990-1994 (pre-facelift), 1995-1999 (facelift - this manual covers up to 1998)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The turbocharged Eclipse GSX (AWD) was featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times in the early to mid-1990s, highlighting its performance value.
Ratings
Value Proposition:
Considered a strong value for performance in its class, especially the turbocharged models which offered a significant performance boost for the price.