🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Generation Codes Platform Code: NS 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Minivan Target Audience: DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, fleet maintenance personnel. Competitive Analysis Competitors Era: Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Honda Odyssey (later in the generation), Toyota Sienna (later in the generation). Key Features Vehicle Versatility: Known for its flexible seating arrangements and family-hauling capability. Engine Options: Offered a range of V6 engines known for their torque and hauling power. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: All systems and components for Dodge Caravan models from 1996-1999. Page Count Total Pages: > 4000 Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication, cooling, timing. Engine Performance: Fuel system (injection, pump, injectors, pressure), ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control. Transmission Manual: Manual transmission (if applicable for this generation), clutch operation, gearbox repair, shifting mechanisms. Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission (e.g., A604, 41TE) repair, overhaul, hydraulics, valve body, torque converter, shifting logic. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive, transaxle, CV joints, drive axles, wheel bearings. Suspension: Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (trailing arms, torsion bars, shocks), springs, sway bars. Steering: Power steering system, steering gear, pump, hoses, steering column, alignment specifications. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc depending on spec), hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, specifications. Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, interior/exterior electronics, fuses, relays. Body Interior: Body panels, doors, glass, trim, seats, HVAC system, dashboard, interior components. Body Exterior: Body structure, bumpers, hood, trunk lid, fenders, paint repair, rust prevention. HVAC: Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant, diagnosis, repair. Restraints: Airbag system, seat belts, SRS component location and testing. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and interpretation. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations. Component Replacement: Detailed steps for replacing common wear items like brake pads, belts, hoses, and bulbs. Major Repairs: Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement. Electrical Diagnosis Repair: Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, diagnosing common electrical faults, component testing. Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic approaches to diagnosing problems based on symptoms, fault codes, and diagnostic tests. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full vehicle overhauls and diagnostics. Diagnostic Tools: Information on using scan tools, multimeters, and specialized diagnostic equipment. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Portable Document Format (PDF) Searchability: Likely searchable text content due to PDF format. Print Quality Quality Notes: Digital PDF allows for high-resolution printing of specific pages or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Common: EGA (3.0L V6 SOHC) Displacement 3 0L: 182 cu in (2972 cc) Horsepower 3 0L: Approximately 150-158 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 3 0L: Approximately 180-186 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code Common: JDA (3.8L V6 SOHC) Displacement 3 3L: 201 cu in (3296 cc) Horsepower 3 3L: Approximately 170-180 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque 3 3L: Approximately 200-205 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Displacement 3 8L: 230 cu in (3778 cc) Horsepower 3 8L: Approximately 180-190 hp @ 4500 rpm Torque 3 8L: Approximately 235-240 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Ignition System Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., A604, 41TE - 'Ultradrive') Optional Type: 5-speed Manual Transaxle (less common, primarily on base models or specific markets). Features Automatic Control: Electronically controlled transmission with adaptive shifting capabilities. Fluid Type Atf Spec: ATF+3 (Chrysler's specification for this era) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 112.1 inches (2847 mm) Length: 179.3 - 192.0 inches (4554 - 4877 mm) depending on configuration (SWB/LWB) Width: 72.2 inches (1834 mm) Height: 68.1 - 69.4 inches (1730 - 1763 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3,700 - 4,200 lbs (1678 - 1905 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact: Likely 4-star rating for 1996-1999 models (check specific year for exact rating). NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact: Likely 4-star rating for 1996-1999 models (check specific year for exact rating). Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Seat Belts: Front, second, and third-row seat belts; front seat belt pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: AM/FM stereo with cassette player; optional CD player available. Speaker Configurations: Standard 4 or 6 speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Connectivity Remote Keyless Entry: Optional feature on higher trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000...