Contents: Introduction of Mitsubishi's…⤓ Vehicle Identification Numbers ⤓ Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ⤓ Vehicle code information plate ⤓ Chassis number ⤓ Vehicle Safety Certification Plate ⤓ Engine Identification Number ⤓ Automotive chemicals and lubricants ⤓ Cleaners ⤓ Lubricants ⤓ Sealants ⤓ Chemicals ⤓ Miscellaneous ⤓ Do's and Don'ts ⤓ Asbestos ⤓ Couples ⤓ Battery ⤓ Household electrical appliances ⤓ High voltage in the secondary…⤓
The manual is divided into chapters. Each chapter is divided into several sections, the headings of which are highlighted in bold and enclosed between two horizontal lines. Each section consists of sequentially numbered points.
At the beginning of each section, references are given to illustrations related to the procedures described in that section. The illustration number consists of the section number and the corresponding item in that section. For example, Figure 3.2 means that the illustration relates to item 2 of Section 3.
Procedures are usually described only once. When necessary, references to another chapter are given by the chapter and section number. References given without the word "Chapter" are to sections and/or paragraphs of the current chapter. For example, "see Section 8" means the specified section in the current chapter.
References to right and left are given relative to the driver sitting behind the steering wheel facing forward.
Although every care has been taken in the preparation of this manual, neither the publisher nor the author accepts any liability for errors or omissions in the information provided by the firm.
Note: A note contains information that is necessary for the correct execution of a procedure or information that explains the essence of the corresponding item.
Caution: Caution means a special procedure or a special point that must be followed during the associated procedure, necessary to avoid damage to the component.
Warning. Warning means a special procedure or a special point that must be followed during the relevant procedure, necessary to prevent harm to the health of the person performing the procedure.
Introduction of Mitsubishi's front-wheel drive model series
Mitsubishi models can have a two- or four-door hatchback, coupe or sedan body type.
The transversely mounted inline four-cylinder engines used in these models are equipped with carburetors or fuel injection systems. Some models are turbocharged.
The engine drives the front wheels through a manual or automatic transmission via independent drive shafts.
The cars have an independent front suspension, which includes a shock absorber strut with a coil spring. The rear suspension is made with longitudinal levers or a torsion axle, depending on the model. A rack and pinion steering mechanism is installed behind the engine.
Most models have disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels, both of which are power-assisted. Some models have both front and rear disc brakes.
Vehicle Identification Numbers
During the manufacturing process, modifications to the vehicle are constantly taking place, which are not announced in the press. Since manuals and spare parts lists are based on numbering, it is important to be able to select the appropriate part for each specific vehicle based on the number.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
This number is stamped on a plate attached to the dashboard under the windshield on the driver's side. The identification number is also listed on the Vehicle Title and Registration Certificate. This number contains information about where and when the car was manufactured, the year of manufacture and the body type.
Vehicle code information plate
The manufacturer's plate is attached to the rear wall of the engine block in the engine compartment. This plate contains the vehicle model code, engine model code and, on most models, the transmission model code and body color code.
Chassis number
The chassis number plate is also attached to the firewall in the engine compartment. It indicates the assembly line number, body type and engine capacity.
Vehicle Safety Certification Plate
The vehicle safety certification plate is attached to the left front door or door pillar. The plate shows the manufacturer's name, month and year of manufacture, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and text confirming the certification.
Engine Identification Number
On most models, the engine identification number is located on the left corner of the top edge of the cylinder block. The number contains information about the engine type, its displacement and the date of manufacture. This number is usually required when ordering spare parts.
Automotive chemicals and lubricants
During vehicle maintenance and repair, a variety of chemicals and lubricants are used. These range from cleaning solvents and tar stain removers to lubricants and protective sprays for rubber, plastic and vinyl.
Cleaners
Carburetor cleaner and choke cleaner are strong solvents for oily deposits, paint, and carbon deposits. Most carburetor cleaners leave a lubricating film after drying that does not harden or coke. Because of this film, these cleaners are not recommended for use on electrical devices.
Brake cleaner is used to remove dirt and brake fluid from the brake system when absolutely clean surfaces are required. This product does not leave any residue and usually eliminates brake squealing caused by dirt.
Electrical system cleaner removes oxide film, corrosion and carbon deposits from electrical contacts, restoring the electrical circuit. It can also be used to clean spark plugs, carburetor jets, voltage regulators and other devices where oil-contaminated surfaces are undesirable.
Moisture removers remove water and moisture from electrical devices such as the alternator, voltage regulator, electrical connectors and fuse box. This product is non-conductive, non-corrosive and non-flammable.
Oil stain removers are strong solvents that are used to remove oily deposits from the exterior surfaces of engines and chassis components. These products can be applied by spraying or brushing and, depending on the type, are removed with water or solvent.
Lubricants
Motor oils are lubricants designed for use in engines. They typically contain a wide range of additives that prevent corrosion and reduce foaming and wear. Motor oils come in a variety of viscosities (from 5 to 80). Recommended oil weights vary depending on the season, temperature, and engine needs. Low-viscosity oils are used in cold climates and at low loads. High-viscosity oils are used in hot climates and at high loads. Multigrade oils provide the properties of both light and heavy oils and are identified from 5W-20 to 20W-50.
Transmission oils are intended for use in differentials, manual transmissions and other devices that require high-temperature lubrication.
Chassis and Wheel Bearing Grease is a plastic grease that operates under conditions of increased loads and friction acting in wheel bearings, ball joints, steering rod joints and universal joints.
High temperature wheel bearing grease is used in high temperature conditions affecting wheel bearings equipped with disc brakes. This grease usually contains molybdenum disulphide, which is a dry type lubricant.
White grease is a thick lubricant used for metal-to-metal friction pairs in the presence of water. White grease remains soft at both low and high temperatures (usually from minus 40 to +90°C) and is not washed off or dissolved in water.
Assembly grease is a special grease that can withstand very high loads, usually containing molybdenum, which is used to lubricate highly loaded components such as main and connecting rod bearings, camshaft lobes when starting a new engine. Assembly grease lubricates the components until the engine lubrication system begins to function.
Silicone lubricants are used to protect rubber, plastic, vinyl and nylon parts.
Graphite lubricants are used where oils cannot be used due to increased contamination, such as in locks. Dry graphite lubricates parts without being contaminated by dust, water, oil or acids. They conduct electricity and do not damage contacts in devices such as ignition locks.
Penetrating molybdenum lubricants loosen and lubricate frozen and rusted fasteners and prevent further rusting or freezing.
Heat dissipating grease is a special non-conductive grease used for mounting ignition system modules that require heat dissipation.
Sealants
RTV sealants are the most widely used gasket materials. Made from silicone, RTV is an air-curing material that densifies, bonds, seals, fills surface imperfections, remains flexible, does not shrink, is relatively easy to remove, and is used as a secondary sealant in almost all low- to medium-temperature gaskets.
Anaerobic sealants are basically similar to RTV in that they can be used to seal gaskets or to form gaskets. They remain flexible, are resistant to solvents, and fill surface imperfections. The difference between anaerobic sealants and RTV sealants is in the curing process. RTV cures in air, while anaerobic sealants cure in the absence of air. This means that anaerobic sealants cure after the parts are assembled, sealing the joints together.
Thread and pipe sealants are used to seal hydraulic and pneumatic connections and vacuum lines. They are usually made of Teflon and come in the form of an aerosol, lubricant or sealant tape.
Chemicals
Anti-seize agents prevent seizure, welding and corrosion of fasteners. High-temperature anti-seize agents are usually made of copper and graphite grease and are used for exhaust system and manifold fastener bolts.
Anaerobic compositions are used to lock fasteners from loosening due to vibration and cure only after installation in the absence of air. Medium-strength compositions are used to lock small nuts, bolts and screws that form a detachable connection. High-strength compositions are used to lock large nuts, bolts and studs that are not subject to disassembly during normal operation.
Oil additives are designed for a variety of purposes, from improving viscosity to reducing internal friction in the engine. It should be noted that most oil manufacturers warn against using additives with their oils.
Fuel additives perform different functions depending on their chemical composition. They usually contain solvents that remove oily deposits and dirt from the carburetor and intake system components. They also serve to remove carbon deposits that form on the internal surfaces of combustion chambers. Some additives contain substances for lubricating the upper part of the cylinder, i.e. valves and piston rings, as well as other chemicals that remove condensation from the fuel tank.
Miscellaneous
Brake fluid is a specially formulated liquid that can withstand the temperature and pressure that act in the brake system. Care must be taken not to allow brake fluid to come into contact with painted surfaces or plastic parts. Always close the brake fluid container to prevent contamination with water or dust.
Sticky door seal is used to secure weatherstripping around doors, windows, and trunk lids. Sometimes used to attach trim panels.
The protective mastic is a resinous substance based on gasoline designed to protect the metal surfaces of the lower part of the car from corrosion. The protective mastic also works as sound insulation.
Waxes and polishes are used to protect paint and plating from the elements. Different types of paint may require different waxes and polishes. Some polishes use chemical or abrasive cleaners to help remove the top layer of oxidized paint on older cars. Recently, many wax-free polishes have been released that contain a wide range of chemicals such as polymers and silicones. These wax-free polishes are usually easier to apply and last longer than regular waxes and polishes.
Do's and Don'ts
You can't rely on a jack alone when working under a car. Always use additional reliable supports, such as telescopic stands, firmly installed under the part of the car that is sure not to sag.
Do not attempt to loosen or tighten nuts that are tightened to a high torque (such as wheel hub nuts) while the vehicle is supported by a jack; in this case, you can push the car off the jack.
Do not start the engine without making sure that the transmission is in neutral (or "PARK") and the handbrake is applied. Do not remove the radiator cap of a hot cooling system - cover it with a rag and gradually release the pressure first, otherwise you may be burned by the coolant splashing out.
Do not drain the oil from the engine until you are sure it has cooled to a safe temperature.
Do not touch engine parts, exhaust pipe or catalytic converter unless they are sufficiently cool.
Do not suck toxic liquids such as gasoline, antifreeze, and brake fluid into your mouth or allow them to come into contact with your skin.
Do not inhale dust from worn brake pads - it can be hazardous to your health (see Asbestos below).
Don't leave spilled oil or grease on the floor - wipe it up thoroughly before someone slips.
Do not use poorly fitting wrenches or other tools that could slip and cause injury.
Do not apply pressure to the wrench when loosening or tightening nuts or bolts. Always try to pull the wrench towards you. In situations where you need to push the wrench, push it with an open palm, otherwise you will damage your finger joints when the wrench slips.
Do not attempt to lift heavy parts alone - call for help.
You must not rush to finish the job or use dangerous shortcuts.
Do not leave children or animals near an unattended vehicle.
It is necessary to wear safety glasses when working with tools such as a drill, grinder, sharpener, etc., and when working under the machine.
It is necessary to keep loose clothing (sweaters, ties, etc.) and long hair away from moving engine parts.
It is necessary to ensure that the lifting equipment used has the required rated load for the job.
When working alone, it is necessary to ask someone to periodically keep an eye on you.
It is necessary to carry out the work in a logical sequence and check that everything is assembled correctly and all connections are tightened.
Chemicals and working fluids must be kept in tightly closed containers and out of the reach of children and pets.
It is important to remember that your own safety and the safety of others depends on the safety of your car. If you have any doubts, ask a professional.
Asbestos
Some friction, insulating, sealing and other parts such as brake pads, clutch friction discs, torque converters, gaskets, etc. contain asbestos. Special care should be taken not to inhale dust from such products, as it is hazardous to health. If in doubt, assume that the part contains asbestos.
Couples
Some vapors are highly toxic and can quickly cause illness or even death if inhaled over a long period of time. Gasoline vapors are in the same category as some solvent vapors. Any disposal or transfer of such volatile liquids should be done in a well-ventilated area.
When using cleaning fluids and solvents, read the instructions for use carefully. Do not use substances from unmarked containers - their vapors may be toxic.
Do not allow the engine to run in a closed space, such as a garage. The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is very poisonous; if you need to run the engine, do it outdoors or at least with the back of the car outside the garage.
If you have access to a pit, do not drain or spill gasoline or leave the engine running when the car is parked over the pit, as the vapors are heavier than air and will accumulate in the pit, which could be fatal.
Battery
Do not create sparks or use open flames near the battery. The battery normally produces a certain amount of hydrogen gas, which is highly explosive.
Always disconnect the negative (-) battery cable when working on the fuel or electrical system.
If possible, loosen the battery caps or cover when charging the battery from an external source. Do not charge at too high a current, as this may cause electrolyte to splash out.
Be careful when adding water and carrying the battery. The electrolyte, even diluted, is very active, so do not allow it to come into contact with clothing or skin.
When cleaning the battery, wear protective glasses to prevent electrolyte or alkali from getting into your eyes.
Household electrical appliances
When using a power tool, portable lamp, etc., always check that the connectors are connected correctly and, if necessary, that the grounding is good. Do not use such devices in damp conditions and do not allow sparks or excessive heat near fuel or gasoline vapors.
High voltage in the secondary circuit of the ignition system
Touching ignition system components such as high-voltage wires while the engine is running or cranking, especially if the parts are wet or the insulation is damaged, can cause an electric shock. The voltage in an electronic ignition system is much higher than in a conventional system and can be fatal.
