1987 Plymouth Manual

The 1987 Plymouth lineup featured various models including the Reliant, Sundance, Horizon, Caravelle, and Gran Fury. These vehicles offered front-wheel drive configurations, fuel-injected engines, electronic ignition systems, power steering, and modern amenities for the era. Below are key sections covering specifications, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting for 1987 Plymouth vehicles.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Specifications 3. Controls and Instrument Panel 4. Operating Instructions 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Specifications 7. Tire Information 8. Electrical System 9. Safety Features 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

1987 Plymouth models featured modern design with improved fuel efficiency and reliability. Key components include electronic fuel injection, front-wheel drive systems, and enhanced comfort features.

ModelEngineTransmission
Reliant2.2L I43-speed automatic/5-speed manual
Sundance2.2L/2.5L I43-speed automatic/5-speed manual
Horizon2.2L I43-speed automatic/5-speed manual
Caravelle2.5L I43-speed automatic
Gran Fury3.0L V63-speed automatic

Specifications

Controls and Instrument Panel

Standard controls include ignition switch, headlight switch, wiper controls, climate controls, and instrument cluster with speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Instrument Panel Features: Speedometer (0-85 mph), Odometer, Fuel gauge, Temperature gauge, Oil pressure warning light, Brake warning light, Seat belt reminder light, Turn signal indicators, High beam indicator.

Climate Control: Manual heating and air conditioning system with three-speed blower control, temperature control lever, and air distribution controls.

Operating Instructions

Proper starting and driving procedures for optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Starting: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), shift to Park/Neutral, turn ignition.
  2. Driving: Allow engine to warm up, use smooth acceleration, avoid rapid starts.
  3. Shifting: Manual transmission - use clutch fully; Automatic - use gear selector properly.
  4. Braking: Apply steady pressure, avoid pumping brakes unnecessarily.
  5. Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to Park (automatic) or reverse (manual).

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends vehicle life.

IntervalService Required
Every 3,000 milesOil and filter change
Every 6,000 milesRotate tires, inspect brakes
Every 15,000 milesReplace air filter, inspect belts/hoses
Every 30,000 milesReplace spark plugs, fuel filter
Every 60,000 milesReplace timing belt, coolant flush

Fluid Specifications

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids. Mixing fluids can cause damage.

Tire Information

Proper tire maintenance ensures safety and fuel efficiency.

WARNING! Check tire pressure regularly. Under-inflated tires reduce fuel economy and handling.

Safety Features

1987 Plymouth vehicles include various safety systems for occupant protection.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, fuel issueCheck battery, fuel level, spark plugs
Rough idleDirty fuel injector, vacuum leakClean injectors, check vacuum lines
OverheatingLow coolant, thermostatCheck coolant level, replace thermostat
Brake vibrationWarped rotorsResurface or replace rotors
Electrical issuesAlternator, batteryTest charging system, check connections

Service: Contact authorized Plymouth dealership for professional service.

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