🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mitsubishi Model: Eclipse Year: 1996 Trim: GS-T Product Name: 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T TIMING BEL 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Sports Coupe / Convertible Competitive Analysis Competitors 1996: Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica GT-S, Nissan 240SX, Ford Probe Key Features Performance Orientation: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) performance variant. Design Style: Aerodynamic, sporty styling. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Focus: Timing Belt Replacement and Related Systems Page Count Estimated Pages: 150-250 Manual Type Type: Specialized Service Manual / Chapter Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (assumed, common for online sales) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Timing belt, tensioners, idler pulleys, camshafts, crankshaft, seals (front main, camshaft) Engine Cooling: Water pump (often replaced with timing belt), coolant hoses, thermostat Engine Fuel Injection: Fuel injectors (access during timing belt service), fuel lines (associated components) Engine Ignition: Spark plugs, ignition coils (access during timing belt service) Engine Lubrication: Oil pan removal (potential for oil seal replacement) Electrical Engine: Camshaft position sensor, crankshaft position sensor (access and potential replacement) Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled timing belt replacement, tensioner and idler pulley replacement, water pump replacement Repair: Timing belt component diagnosis, replacement of damaged components, leak sealing (front main seal, camshaft seals) Troubleshooting: Symptoms of worn/broken timing belt, diagnosis of timing belt related noises, belt slippage issues Installation: Correct timing belt installation, tensioner adjustment, camshaft and crankshaft alignment procedures Technical Depth Depth: Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams for timing belt replacement, including all necessary component removal and reinstallation. Diagnostic Level: Addresses common failure points and diagnostic procedures specific to the timing belt system. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Digital (PDF) Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution, suitable for printing diagrams. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital) Completeness Coverage: Focused on timing belt system, potentially includes related components as necessary for access and replacement. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: 4G63T Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged and intercooled Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1997 cc) Performance Horsepower Est: 210 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Est: 214 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger Engine Management ECU: Engine Control Unit (ECU) for managing fuel and ignition timing Timing System Timing Mechanism: Timing Belt Driven 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Std: 5-Speed Manual Optional Type Opt: 4-Speed Automatic with Sportronic Mode Features AWD Option: Available with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) in GS-T trim 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Est: 178.5 inches Width Est: 69.1 inches Height Est: 50.4 inches (Coupe) Wheelbase Wheelbase Est: 100.4 inches Weights Curb Weight Est: 3100-3300 lbs (depending on FWD/AWD) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact Est: 4 Stars NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact Est: 4 Stars Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on GS-T Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM Cassette stereo with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim. Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control on GS-T models. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Timing Belt Replacement Interval Miles: 60,000 miles or 60 months, whichever comes first (critical for 4G63T). Tensioner Idler Replacement: Recommended to replace with timing belt. Water Pump Replacement: Recommended to replace with timing belt due to labor overlap. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific turbo recommendations, often 10W-30). Coolant: Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron II or III (check manual for exact spec). Known Issues Timing Belt Failure: Non-interference engine design means belt failure does NOT cause catastrophic engine damage, but requires immediate replacement. Turbocharger Issues: Oil starvation or clogging can lead to turbo failure, regular oil changes are crucial. Suspension Wear: Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, especially with spirited driving. Clutch Wear: Wear item, especially on manual transmission models with enthusiastic use. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Focus: Mitsubishi Motors, known for performance and rally heritage (Galant VR-4). Model Evolution Generation: Second Generation Eclipse (1995-1999) Platform: Shared platform with the Eagle Talon and Plymouth Laser (DSM - Diamond-Star Motors). Production Manufacturing Location: Normal, Illinois, USA 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Import Car Of The Year 1996: The Mitsubishi Eclipse, in its second generation, was generally well-received by automotive press for its performance and styling, though specific 'Import Car of the Year' awards might vary by publication.