🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Years Covered: 1998, 1999 Codes Platform: NS (Second Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Minivan Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1998-1999: Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Mercury Villager Key Features Vehicle Identity: Popular and versatile family vehicle known for its practicality and cargo capacity Manual Value Proposition: Essential resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1998-1999 Dodge Caravan 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Documentation Scope: Comprehensive repair and service procedures Page Count Total Pages: > 3000 Manual Type Manual Classification: Workshop Service Manual Language Primary Language: English Format Delivery Format: PDF (Digital Download) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, automatic and manual transmissions Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes (including ABS), driveline, wheels, and tires Electrical: Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, HVAC, power accessories, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) Body: Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, glass, seats, bumpers Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication Repair: Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-to-cause analysis, common issues and remedies Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostics, specific diagnostic procedures for various systems Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Detailed specifications, step-by-step repair instructions, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, special tool recommendations 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, searchable text, printable Print Quality Digital Quality: Optimized for digital viewing and printing Binding Type Physical Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Physical Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72) Engine Displacement 1: 2972 cc Engine Configuration 1: SOHC V6 Horsepower 1: 158 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 1: 180 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code 2: 3.3L V6 (EGA) Engine Displacement 2: 3301 cc Engine Configuration 2: OHV V6 Horsepower 2: 156 hp @ 4500 rpm Torque 2: 196 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Engine Code 3: 3.8L V6 (108) Engine Displacement 3: 3778 cc Engine Configuration 3: OHV V6 Horsepower 3: 180 hp @ 4700 rpm Torque 3: 235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Engine Management ECU Type: Proprietary Chrysler PCM (Powertrain Control Module) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type 1: 4-speed automatic (A604/41TE) Optional Transmission Type 2: 3-speed automatic (727/32RH) - less common, primarily on early models or specific configurations Features Automatic Transmission Features: Electronically controlled, overdrive, torque converter lock-up Fluid Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar specification for the era, often ATF+3 or Dexron III compatible) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 111.8 inches Length: 177.4 inches Width: 72.1 inches Height: 67.9 inches Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,700 - 4,100 lbs (depending on engine and configuration) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approx. 5,250 - 5,500 lbs Cargo Max Cargo Volume: Approx. 140 - 150 cubic feet (with rear seats removed) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating Driver: 4 Stars (1998) NHTSA Front Impact Rating Passenger: 4 Stars (1998) IIHS Offset Frontal Crash Rating: Acceptable (for models tested) Active Features ABS: Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels, sometimes all four Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, front seatbelt pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, multiple speaker configurations (4-8 speakers) Rear Entertainment: Optional rear-seat entertainment system (infant monitors or video screens were not common in this era). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited to basic auxiliary inputs for aftermarket entertainment systems; no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil type and driving conditions) Transmission Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (recommended, especially under severe use) Spark Plug Replacement Interval: Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - platinum or iridium recommended for longer life) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Engine Coolant: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Power Steering Fluid: Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III compatible) Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid Known Issues Common Problem 1: Transmission solenoid issues (especially in earlier 41TE transmissions), leading to erratic shifting or failure to engage gears. Common Problem 2: Premature wear of rear springs and shock absorbers due to vehicle load. Common Problem 3: CV axle joint wear and failure, particularly on vehicles with high mileage or subjected to harsh conditions. Common Problem 4: Headlight switch failures, leading to inoperative headlights or taillights. Common Problem 5: Interior trim and upholstery wear, common...