Contents Section: Procedures All sections

Maintenance Information Dodge Diplomat I

Procedures 2 illustrations ~1491 words

MODEL IDENTIFICATION

Note. For scheduled maintenance intervals and the related fluid capacities, fluid specifications and labor times for major service intervals, see SCHEDULED SERVICES article in this section. Warranty information and specifications for fluid capacities, lubrication specifications, wheel and tire size, and battery type are covered in this article.

VIN LOCATION

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.

VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION

Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.

VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 2

Scheme 2: VIN Code ID Explanation

SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS

Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions

Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation or time frequency. More frequent maintenance may be needed for vehicles operating under severe conditions. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions

Severe Service

  1. Dusty Conditions
  2. Extensive Idling
  3. Frequent Short Trips
  4. Sustained High Speeds During Hot Weather
  5. Police, Taxi, Limousine, Commercial, or Towing

Normal Service

  1. Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
  2. No Operating Conditions From Severe Service List

TIRE INFLATION

The placard which lists the correct tire pressure for this vehicle is attached to the left front door latch pillar.

WHEEL TIGHTENING

All wheel lug nuts should be tightened to 90 ft. lbs. (122 N.m).

BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section.

AIR BAG SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

CAUTIONDisconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system or steering column component. See WARNING under BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from the passenger's side of vehicle (to prevent injury in case of accidental air bag inflation).

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

The anti-lock brake system contains electronic equipment that can be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. Since this interference could cause the possible loss of the anti-lock braking capability, such equipment should be installed by qualified professionals.

On models equipped with anti-lock brake systems, ALWAYS observe the following cautions

  1. DO NOT attempt to bleed hydraulic system without first referring to the appropriate ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM article in the BRAKES Section.
  2. DO NOT mix tire sizes. As long as tires remain close to the original diameter, increasing the width is acceptable. Rolling diameter must be identical for all 4 tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style and type. Failure to follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
  3. Use ONLY recommended brake fluids. DO NOT use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.

BATTERY WARNING

WARNINGWhen battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION section.

REPLACING BLOWN FUSES

CAUTIONBefore replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

CAUTIONContinued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle.

COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)

CAUTIONTo avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUTIONPropylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.

ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS

WARNINGMany solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component.

ENGINE OIL

CAUTIONNever use non-detergent or straight mineral oil.

FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE

WARNINGRelieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models).

HALOGEN BULBS

WARNINGHalogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs.

RADIATOR CAP

CAUTIONAlways disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot.

RADIATOR FAN (ELECTRIC)

WARNINGKeep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

CAUTIONDue to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options.

BASIC NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Everything is covered for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty covers any repairs to vehicle which have proven defective in material and workmanship in normal use (tires excluded). Warranty repairs (parts and labor) will be made by the Dealer at no charge using new or remanufactured parts.

MAJOR ASSEMBLY & COMPONENT LIMITED WARRANTY

Upon expiration of the basic 12-month/12,000-mile Basic New Car Limited Warranty, the assemblies and components listed below are warranted for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. This warranty is subject to a 100 deductible for each repair visit.

  1. Air Conditioning Compressor; condenser; clutch coil pulley assembly; evaporator core; filter drier; expansion valve; gaskets and seals.
  2. Brakes Master cylinder; vacuum assist booster; wheel cylinders; disc brake calipers and pistons; proportioning valve; hydraulic lines and fittings; seals and gaskets.
  3. Cooling System Radiator, fan and clutch.
  4. Electrical Alternator; voltage regulator; windshield wiper motor; starter motor and solenoid; switches and wiring harnesses.
  5. Front Suspension Upper and lower control arms; control arm shafts and bushings; upper and lower ball joints; sway bar and bushings; front wheel bearings; steering knuckles.
  6. Fuel System Fuel tank, fuel pump and fuel lines.
  7. Engine Cylinder block and all internal parts; cylinder head assemblies; core plugs; valve covers; oil pan; timing gear, chain and cover; oil pump; intake and exhaust manifolds; water pump; gaskets and seals for all listed parts.
  8. Transmission Transmission case and all internal parts; seals and gaskets; oil pan; torque converter with starter ring gear and flexplate.
  9. Rear Drive Axle Drive axle housing and all internal parts, seals and gaskets; axle shaft bearings and seals; drive shaft assemblies; universal joints and yokes.
  10. Steering Gear housing and all internal parts; power steering pump; steering shaft and couplings; gaskets and seals for listed components.

CORROSION COVERAGE

This warranty starts on the date the vehicle is delivered or put in use, whichever occurs first, and extends for 36 months regardless of mileage. It covers any rust-through in body sheet metal due to corrosion.

EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY

The following list of components affect emission of the vehicle. The related emission control parts of these systems are covered by the Performance Warranty where applicable. If another part fails due to the failure of one of these components, both will be covered by the Performance Warranty. This warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for 5 years or 50,000 miles whichever occurs first.

  1. Carburetor Feedback Control System
  2. Electronic Fuel Injection System
  3. Air Cleaner Vapor Containment Door System
  4. Electronic Spark Control
  5. Electronic Control Module
  6. Vapor Storage Canister And Controls
  7. Deceleration Throttle Control
  8. EGR Valve and Control System
  9. Air Pump, Belt And Pulley
  10. Air Injection Controls
  11. PCV Valve
  12. Catalytic Converters
  13. Vacuum Hoses, Clamps, Fittings And Tubing
  14. Vacuum, Temperature, Altitude, Speed And Time-Sensitive Valves And Switches

FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1983-88 MODELS)

The fuse block is located behind the instrument panel lower trim to the left of the steering column.

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1983-88 MODELS)

Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification

  1. 1 - 20 Amp - Hazard Flashers
  2. 2 - (5 Amp) 1983-87 - Heated Rear Window Relay, Rear Window Defogger, Cornering Lights, Speed Control
  3. 2 - (20 Amp) 1988 - Back-Up Lights, Rear Window Defrost, Overhead Console, Electric Trunk Release, A/C Clutch
  4. 3 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Power Window Motors, Power Sun Roof Motor, Illuminated Entry
  5. 4 - 30 Amp - Blower Motor, ATC Electronics & Servomotor
  6. 5 - 20 Amp - Instrument Panel Illumination, Park & Side Marker Lights, Opera Lights & Taillights, License Light, Cassette Dolby Light, Radio Display Illumination
  7. 6 - 20 Amp - Stoplights, Dome Light, Door & Under Panel Courtesy Lights, Map Light, Vanity Mirror Lights, Trunk Light, Ignition Switch Time Delay Relay, Key-In/Headlights On Buzzer, Door Key Cylinder Lights, Illuminated Entry Electronics
  8. 7 - 20 Amp - Horn, Horn Relay, Glove Box Light, Cigarette Lighter, Clock Electronics, Search Tune Radio Memory, Auto Power Antenna, Clock
  9. 8 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Power Seat Motors, Power Door Locks
  10. 9 - 20 Amp - Right Spot Light (Fleet Package)
  11. 10 - (20 Amp) 1983-87 - Left Spot Light
  12. 10 - (10 Amp) 1988 - Courtesy Lights, Map & Glove Box Lights, Vanity Mirror Light, Trunk Light, Key Cylinder Light, Ignition Time Delay Relay, Radio Memory, Illuminated Entry
  13. 11 - 5 Amp - Voltage Limiter, Fuel Gauge, Temperature Gauge, BRAKE Warning Light, Low Oil Pressure Light, Seat Belt Warning Buzzer & Light, Door Ajar Light
  14. 12 - 20 Amp - Windshield Washer/Wiper
  15. 13 - 3 Amp - Instrument Cluster Lights, A/C Heater Control Title Light, Heated Rear Window, Ashtray Light, Radio Lights, Clock Display Dimming, Radio Display Dimming
  16. 14 - 6 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Power Amplifier, Deck Lid Release, Rear Wiper/Washer
  17. 15 - 5 Amp - Radio & Clock Display, Auto Power Antenna Sense
  18. 16 - 20 Amp - Back-Up Lights, Turn Signals, A/C Clutch

FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION (1989 MODELS)

The fuse block is located behind the instrument panel lower trim to the left of the steering column.

  1. 1 - 20 Amp - Hazard Flashers
  2. 2 - 20 Amp - Back-Up Lights, Rear Window Defroster, Overhead Console, Electric Trunk Release, A/C Clutch, Air Bag Module
  3. 3 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Power Windows, Illuminated Entry Relay
  4. 4 - 30 Amp - A/C Heater, Blower Motor
  5. 5 - 20 Amp - Park & Side Marker Lights, Opera Lights, Taillights & License Light, Radio Display Intensity
  6. 6 - 20 Amp - Stoplights & Chimes
  7. 7 - 20 Amp - Horns, Horn Relay, Cigarette Lighter, Power Antenna, Air Bag Module
  8. 8 - 30 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Power Door Locks & Seats
  9. 9 - 20 Amp - Radio & Clock Display
  10. 10 - 20 Amp - Turn Signal Lights
  11. 11 - 20 Amp - Windshield Wiper & Washer
  12. 12 - 3 Amp - Cluster, Headlight Switch, A/C & Heater Control, Heated Rear Window, Ashtray & Radio Lights, Clock & Radio Dimming
  13. 13 - 5 Amp - BRAKE Warning Light, Low Oil Pressure, Seat Belt & Door Ajar Lights, Fuel & Temperature Gauges, Voltage Limiter, Air Bag Module
  14. 14 - 6 Amp (Circuit Breaker) - Police Relay Package (Fleet Package)
  15. 15 - 20 Amp - Spotlights (Fleet Package)
  16. 16 - 10 Amp - Dome Light, Door & Under Panel Courtesy Lights, Map & Glove Box Lights, Vanity Mirror, Trunk & Door Key Cylinder Lights, Ignition Time Delay Relay, Radio Memory, Illuminated Entry