1986 Dodge Aries Manual

The 1986 Dodge Aries is a mid-size family sedan featuring front-wheel drive, available in 2-door and 4-door configurations, powered by Chrysler's 2.2L and 2.5L inline-4 engines with optional 2.6L Mitsubishi engine, 3-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are key sections for specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Instructions 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Fluid Specifications 6. Electrical System 7. Brake System 8. Engine Service 9. Troubleshooting 10. Safety Information

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: 2.2L/2.5L Chrysler inline-4 engines, front-wheel drive, MacPherson strut front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering.

Specification	Description
Engine Options	2.2L I4 (96 hp), 2.5L I4 (100 hp), 2.6L I4 (104 hp)
Transmission	3-speed automatic, 5-speed manual
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum
Wheelbase	100.3 inches
Curb Weight	2,500-2,700 lbs
Fuel Capacity	14 gallons
Seating Capacity	5 passengers

Instrument Panel

Standard instrumentation includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Speedometer: 0-85 mph with odometer and trip meter
Fuel Gauge: E to F with low fuel warning light
Temperature Gauge: C to H with overheat warning
Warning Lights: Oil pressure, brake system, check engine
Controls: Headlight switch, wiper control, heater/AC controls

WARNING! Respond immediately to red warning lights to prevent vehicle damage.

Operating Instructions

Starting procedure and basic vehicle operation.

Starting: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), shift to Park/Neutral, turn ignition
Shifting: Automatic - P-R-N-D-2-1; Manual - H-pattern with reverse lockout
Climate Control: Three-dial system for fan speed, temperature, mode selection
Lights: Rotary switch for parking, headlights, high beams

CAUTION! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving.

Maintenance Schedule

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 6,000 miles: Tire rotation, fluid checks
Every 15,000 miles: Air filter replacement
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs, coolant flush
Every 60,000 miles: Timing belt (2.6L), transmission fluid
Every 2 years: Brake fluid replacement

Fluid Specifications

Access OSD via TV MENU or SETUP (DVD). Front Panel: POWER, OPEN/CLOSE, AUTO/DPMS, MUTE.

Fluid Type	Specification	Capacity
Engine Oil	10W-30 SF/CC	4 quarts
Coolant	Ethylene glycol 50/50 mix	9 quarts
Automatic Transmission	ATF+3	7 quarts
Manual Transmission	75W-90 GL-4	3.5 pints
Brake Fluid	DOT 3	As needed

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 60-amp alternator.

Battery: 12V 450 CCA, negative ground
Alternator: 60-amp output
Fuses: 12-fuse panel under dashboard
Bulbs: Headlights 4651, taillights 2057, dome light 561

Tip: Disconnect battery negative cable before electrical work.

Brake System

Hydraulic dual-circuit system with front disc/rear drum configuration.

Master Cylinder: Tandem type with fluid reservoir
Front Brakes: 9.0-inch ventilated discs
Rear Brakes: 9.0-inch drums
Parking Brake: Mechanical cable to rear wheels
Brake Adjustment: Self-adjusting rear brakes

WARNING! Brake fluid absorbs moisture; replace every 2 years.

Engine Service

Basic service procedures for 2.2L/2.5L engines.

Spark Plugs: Champion RN9YC, gap 0.035 inch
Ignition Timing: 12° BTDC at idle (manual transmission)
Valve Clearance: Hydraulic lifters, no adjustment needed
Fuel Pressure: 14.5 psi at idle
Compression: 130-160 psi, variation under 25 psi

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before removing radiator cap.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel pressure, spark plugs, compression test
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, misaligned timing	Replace air filter, check ignition timing
Overheating	Coolant leak, thermostat stuck	Check coolant level, replace thermostat
Brake pull	Stuck caliper, contaminated pads	Inspect calipers, replace brake pads
Electrical issues	Bad alternator, corroded connections	Test alternator output, clean battery terminals

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset computer.

Service: Contact authorized Dodge dealership for major repairs.