🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Year: 1996, 1997 Codes Platform: NS (Second Generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Mid-size minivan / family van. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Toyota Previa, Honda Odyssey, Plymouth Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country (closely related platforms). Key Features Vehicle Strengths: Spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, comfortable ride, availability of AWD (All-Wheel Drive) on select models. Manual Value Proposition: Provides comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures essential for maintaining and repairing the 1996-1997 Dodge Caravan, enabling cost savings and proper vehicle upkeep. Platform Sharing: Shares its NS platform with the Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country, but service procedures can have model-specific variations covered in the manual. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Complete factory service and repair information for 1996-1997 Dodge Caravan. Page Count Page Count: Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but described as 'complete'). Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (2.4L DOHC, 3.0L V6, 3.3L V6, 3.8L V6), transmission (automatic transaxles: A604, A606, A670), drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system. Chassis: Suspension (front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, bushings), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), braking system (disc/drum, ABS), wheels and tires. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, instrument cluster, body control modules, power accessories, diagnostics (OBD-II). Body: Body and frame construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, glass, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), power sliding door systems (if applicable to specific trims). Procedures Included Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Detailed symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and repair procedures, electrical system diagnosis. Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tire rotation. Repair And Rebuild: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul for all major systems. Specifications And Tolerances: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, alignment specifications, engine timing, electrical resistance values. Body And Paint: Information on body panel repair, door alignment, glass replacement, and corrosion prevention. HVAC System: Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems, including refrigerant handling (where applicable for the era). Wheel Alignment: Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive coverage for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed schematics, diagnostic procedures, and component-level repair instructions. Diagnostic Tools: Procedures likely reference specific diagnostic tools and scan tools for fault code retrieval and live data analysis. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: PDF format typically allows for text searching, enabling quick navigation to specific topics. Print Quality Print Quality: Designed for clear printing of text and diagrams. High-resolution scans or original factory formatting. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Downloadable PDF - printing and binding is user-dependent) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Downloadable PDF - paper type is user-dependent for printing) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.4L (2428cc) DOHC Inline-4, 3.0L (2972cc) Mitsubishi V6, 3.3L (3301cc) OHV V6, 3.8L (3778cc) OHV V6. Performance Horsepower Range: Approx. 150 hp (2.4L) to 165 hp (3.8L V6). Torque Range: Approx. 170 lb-ft (2.4L) to 230 lb-ft (3.8L V6). Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI). Engine Management Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on V6 engines, Distributor Ignition System on 2.4L. Emissions Control: Includes details on emission control systems, catalytic converters, and EGR systems as per 1996-1997 regulations. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., A604, A606, A670, depending on engine). Optional Optional Transmission: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option available with V6 engines. Features Transmission Features: Electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive, torque converter lock-up. Gear Ratios: Specific gear ratios for each transmission model are detailed within the manual. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 112.1 inches. Length: Approx. 177.0 inches. Interior Seating Capacity: Up to 7 passengers (with 2nd and 3rd-row seating). Cargo Cargo Volume: Significant cargo capacity, expandable with removable rear seats. Specific cubic footage varies with seating configuration. Weights Curb Weight: Varies by configuration, typically starting around 3,500 lbs for base models. Towing Capacity: Towing capacity varies by engine and configuration; specifications are available in the manual. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: Side-impact protection, dual airbags (driver and passenger). Insurance Institute Highway Safety: IIHS crash test results and safety assessments for the period would be relevant context, although not directly provided by the manual description. Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available or standard on some trims. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point seat belts for all outboard seating positions. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM cassette or CD player with optional premium sound system. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional electronic cruise control. Connectivity OBD Standard: On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant, facilitating electronic diagnostics. 🔧...