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Introduction
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Market Position
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Market Position:
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The Plymouth Acclaim was positioned as an affordable, comfortable, and practical compact sedan, often competing with models like the Chevrolet Cavalier and Ford Escort. It was part of Chrysler's successful 'K-car' heritage, adapted for a more aerodynamic and contemporary design.
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Target Audience:
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Families and individuals seeking a comfortable, reliable, and economically priced vehicle for daily commuting and general use.
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Competitive Analysis
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Competitive Analysis:
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The Acclaim offered a balance of interior space and fuel efficiency. Its longer wheelbase and wider track compared to some competitors provided a more stable ride. The powertrain options, particularly the Mitsubishi-sourced engines, were generally reliable for the era.
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Key Features
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Key Features:
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Aerodynamic styling, spacious interior for its class, optional V6 engine, front-wheel drive, and availability of various trim levels offering comfort and convenience features.
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Design Philosophy:
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The Acclaim was designed to offer European styling cues with American practicality and affordability, particularly appealing to families and budget-conscious buyers.
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Systems Covered:
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Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, starting and charging system, clutch, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline components, suspension system, steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum), body structure, exterior and interior trim, HVAC system, electrical system (wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories), and diagnostic procedures.
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Electrical System Coverage:
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Detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, fuel injection, instruments, HVAC, power windows/locks (if equipped), and accessories. Troubleshooting of electrical faults.
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Procedures Included
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Procedures Included:
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Routine maintenance, inspections, adjustments, removal and installation of components, disassembly and assembly of major sub-assemblies, troubleshooting guidance, diagnostic tests, repair procedures, specifications, tightening torques, wear limits, and special tool recommendations.
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Engine Repair Procedures:
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Complete engine overhaul procedures, including cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and main bearing service, camshaft timing, valve adjustment (if applicable), and engine block machining specifications.
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Suspension Steering Repair:
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Detailed procedures for front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel bearing service, power steering pump and rack/gearbox repair, and alignment specifications.
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Body And Interior Repair:
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Covers removal and installation of body panels, bumpers, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, dashboard components, and HVAC system servicing.
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Technical Depth
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Technical Depth:
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Comprehensive, bumper-to-bumper coverage suitable for professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded diagrams, pictorial illustrations, and diagnostic flowcharts.
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Diagnostic Procedures:
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Includes diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
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Special Tool References:
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References specific Mopar special tool numbers and provides illustrations of their usage where necessary for accurate repair and adjustment.
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Engine Specifications
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Primary Engine
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Primary Engine:
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2.5L (153 ci) Inline-4 SOHC
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Engine Codes:
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Based on Chrysler's family of engines derived from the Mitsubishi 4G52 Astron engine, often referred to as the '420' series or 'PowerTech'.
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Performance
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Horsepower Inline4:
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Approximately 100-105 hp (varies slightly by year/tune)
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Torque Inline4:
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Approximately 130-135 lb-ft (varies slightly by year/tune)
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Fuel System
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Fuel System:
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Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
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Optional Engine
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Optional Engine:
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3.0L (181 ci) Mitsubishi 6G72 V6 SOHC
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Optional Engine Performance
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Horsepower V6:
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Approximately 140-144 hp
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Torque V6:
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Approximately 160-165 lb-ft
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Cylinder Block Material
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Cylinder Block Material:
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Cast Iron
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Cylinder Head Material
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Cylinder Head Material:
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Aluminum
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Ignition System
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Ignition System:
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Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for V6, distributor-based for Inline-4 in some configurations.
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Cooling System
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Cooling System Type:
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Pressurized liquid cooling system with engine-driven fan or electric fan depending on configuration.
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Lubrication System
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Oil Capacity With Filter:
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Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) for 2.5L inline-4, slightly more for V6.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (conventional oil), or longer if using synthetic oil as recommended by manufacturer.
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Tire Rotation Interval:
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Every 5,000-7,500 miles
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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If equipped with the Mitsubishi 3.0L V6, timing belt replacement is critical. Intervals typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. (Inline-4 engines may have timing chains).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Viscosity:
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SAE 5W-30 (preferred), SAE 10W-30 also acceptable based on ambient temperature.
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Coolant Type:
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Chrysler Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT type) or equivalent (a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water).
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3
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Power Steering Fluid:
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ATF+3 or specific Mopar power steering fluid.
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Manual Transmission Fluid:
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API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 gear oil (for Getrag manual).
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Known Issues
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Common Issues:
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Issues can include head gasket failures (especially on earlier versions of the 2.5L engine), intake manifold gasket leaks, transmission solenoid failures, rust on body panels (wheel wells, rocker panels), suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), and aging electrical components or wiring harness issues.
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Recall Information:
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Potential recalls may exist for specific safety-related components. Checking NHTSA or Chrysler service bulletins is recommended.
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Cooling System Common Issues:
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Radiator leaks, hose failures, thermostat malfunctions, and water pump leaks are common maintenance concerns.
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