🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mitsubishi Model: Nimbus Model Aliases: Mitsubishi Space Wagon (some markets), Mitsubishi Chariot (some markets) Generation Generation Code: UA/UB (Second Generation) Codes Chassis Codes: N33W, N34W, N43W, N44W 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Minivan Competitive Analysis Competitors: Toyota Ipsum/Spacia, Nissan Prairie, Honda Odyssey (early models), Mazda MPV. Key Features Versatility: Offered flexible seating configurations, often with removable or fold-flat rear seats, maximizing cargo and passenger utility. Practicality: Designed for families, offering good passenger comfort and ample cargo space. Drivetrain Options: Available in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations, enhancing versatility in varying conditions. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Model Years Covered: 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 2000-3000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, component testing, repair procedures for all specified engine variants. Transmission: Automatic and manual transmission service, repair, overhaul, and fluid specifications. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) system diagnostics, CV joints, driveshafts, differential service. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump and fluid. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, horn. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service, refrigerant recharge, component replacement. Bodywork: Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, trim removal and installation, chassis specifications. Fuel: Fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank service, fuel pressure. Exhaust: Exhaust system components, muffler, catalytic converter, lambda sensors (oxygen sensors). Cooling: Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant types and capacities, cooling fan operation. Emissions: Emission control systems, EGR valve, PCV valve, catalytic converter function. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-ups, brake pad replacement, tire rotation. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I/OBD-II (if applicable) code interpretation. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all vehicle components. Rebuilds: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with torque specifications and tolerances. Installation: Installation procedures for common replacement parts and accessories. Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, and diagnostic parameters. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Searchable text functionality is a common feature in quality PDF manuals. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Downloadable format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Downloadable format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 4G63 (2.0L SOHC) Displacement 1: 1997 cc Bore Stroke 1: 85.0 mm x 88.0 mm Compression Ratio 1: 8.5:1 (typical) Horsepower 1: 125-135 PS (approx. 93-100 kW) at 6000 rpm (typical) Torque 1: 172-180 Nm (approx. 127-133 lb-ft) at 3000-3500 rpm (typical) Secondary Engine Engine Code 2: 4G64 (2.4L SOHC) Displacement 2: 2351 cc Bore Stroke 2: 86.5 mm x 100.0 mm Compression Ratio 2: 9.0:1 (typical) Horsepower 2: 145-155 PS (approx. 108-115 kW) at 5500-6000 rpm (typical) Torque 2: 205-215 Nm (approx. 151-159 lb-ft) at 3000-3500 rpm (typical) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per market recommendations, typically 91 RON or higher) Engine Management ECU: Proprietary Mitsubishi ECU (Engine Control Unit) controlling fuel injection and ignition timing. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type 1: 4-speed Automatic (e.g., F4A33) Optional Transmission Type 2: 5-speed Manual (less common, often on base models) Features AWD System: Optional full-time 4WD with viscous coupling center differential (Super Select 4WD system in some configurations) or similar AWD system. Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., DIAQUEEN ATF-SP II M) Fluid Capacities Automatic Transmission Capacity: Approximately 7.0-8.0 liters (pan drop and refill, full overhaul capacity will be higher). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4550-4670 mm Width: Approx. 1700-1735 mm Height: Approx. 1620-1670 mm Wheelbase: Approx. 2720 mm Ground Clearance: Approx. 150-160 mm Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1450-1600 kg (depending on engine and drivetrain) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: Information not readily available for specific governmental crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for this model year range, as testing protocols varied significantly in that era and coverage was not universal. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver-side airbag typically standard. Passenger airbag may have been optional or introduced later in the production run. Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts for all...
Exhaust system components, muffler, catalytic converter, lambda sensors (oxygen sensors).
Cooling:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant types and capacities, cooling fan operation.
Emissions:
Emission control systems, EGR valve, PCV valve, catalytic converter function.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-ups, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I/OBD-II (if applicable) code interpretation.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all vehicle components.
Rebuilds:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with torque specifications and tolerances.
Installation:
Installation procedures for common replacement parts and accessories.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, and diagnostic parameters.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Searchable text functionality is a common feature in quality PDF manuals.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Downloadable format)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Downloadable format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 1:
4G63 (2.0L SOHC)
Displacement 1:
1997 cc
Bore Stroke 1:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
8.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower 1:
125-135 PS (approx. 93-100 kW) at 6000 rpm (typical)
Torque 1:
172-180 Nm (approx. 127-133 lb-ft) at 3000-3500 rpm (typical)
Secondary Engine
Engine Code 2:
4G64 (2.4L SOHC)
Displacement 2:
2351 cc
Bore Stroke 2:
86.5 mm x 100.0 mm
Compression Ratio 2:
9.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower 2:
145-155 PS (approx. 108-115 kW) at 5500-6000 rpm (typical)
Torque 2:
205-215 Nm (approx. 151-159 lb-ft) at 3000-3500 rpm (typical)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per market recommendations, typically 91 RON or higher)
Engine Management
ECU:
Proprietary Mitsubishi ECU (Engine Control Unit) controlling fuel injection and ignition timing.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type 1:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., F4A33)
Optional
Transmission Type 2:
5-speed Manual (less common, often on base models)
Features
AWD System:
Optional full-time 4WD with viscous coupling center differential (Super Select 4WD system in some configurations) or similar AWD system.
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., DIAQUEEN ATF-SP II M)
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approximately 7.0-8.0 liters (pan drop and refill, full overhaul capacity will be higher).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4550-4670 mm
Width:
Approx. 1700-1735 mm
Height:
Approx. 1620-1670 mm
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2720 mm
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150-160 mm
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1600 kg (depending on engine and drivetrain)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
Information not readily available for specific governmental crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for this model year range, as testing protocols varied significantly in that era and coverage was not universal.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag typically standard. Passenger airbag may have been optional or introduced later in the production run.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, with pre-tensioners for front seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD player was often an optional upgrade or available on higher trims.
Speakers:
Typically 4 to 6 speakers depending on trim level.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system was often available or standard on higher trims.
Connectivity
No Advanced Connectivity:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration. Focus is on basic automotive function.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for iridium/platinum.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for 4G6x engines. Typically every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is commonly recommended. Refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant. Mitsubishi Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent blue coolant is often specified. A 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Timing Belt Wear:
The timing belt is a critical wear item. Failure can lead to severe engine damage (interference engine).
Cv Joint Boots:
Torn CV joint boots can lead to premature wear and failure of the joints, especially on AWD models.
Automatic Transmission Reliability:
While generally robust, some transmissions can experience wear with high mileage or neglect, leading to harsh shifting or slipping.
Rust Corrosion:
Like many vehicles of this era, particularly those in areas with harsh winters, rust and corrosion on the body panels, suspension components, and exhaust system can be a concern.
Power Steering Leaks:
Occasional leaks from power steering hoses or the pump can occur.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mitsubishi Motors:
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer with a history dating back to the early 20th century, known for innovation in 4WD technology and robust vehicle platforms.
Model Evolution
Generation 2 Start:
The second generation (UA/UB chassis) debuted in 1991 and received a facelift around 1993/1994, introducing updated styling and minor feature enhancements. This manual covers the post-facelift models.
Name Changes:
The Nimbus was sold under various names globally, including Space Wagon and Chariot, reflecting Mitsubishi's strategy of badge engineering and market-specific model naming.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Reputation:
The Nimbus/Space Wagon/Chariot line was generally well-regarded for its practicality, spaciousness, and the availability of AWD, making it a solid choice for families prioritizing utility over performance.
Ratings
Reliability Perception:
Mitsubishi vehicles of this era were often considered reliable, though maintenance is key. This manual provides the means to maintain that reliability.
Certifications
Manual Quality Certification:
N/A (Manual quality is assessed by its comprehensiveness and accuracy, which this manual is designed to provide).