1987 Plymouth Reliant Repair Manual

The 1987 Plymouth Reliant is a front-wheel drive compact car featuring a 2.2L or 2.5L four-cylinder engine, three-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission, MacPherson strut front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for all major systems including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical, and body components.

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1987 Plymouth Reliant models.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Oil Filter: Replace with every oil change
3. Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles
4. Spark Plugs: Every 30,000 miles
5. Timing Belt: Every 60,000 miles
6. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
7. Brake Fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
8. Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Never rely solely on hydraulic jack.

Engine Repair

Procedures for engine maintenance and repair.

1. Spark Plug Replacement: Remove ignition wires, use 13/16" socket
2. Valve Adjustment: Cold engine, set clearance to 0.008-0.010 inches
3. Timing Belt: Align marks, tension properly
4. Oil Pan Removal: Drain oil, remove bolts, lower pan carefully
5. Cylinder Head: Torque bolts in sequence to 50 ft-lbs

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before working. Disconnect battery negative terminal.

Transmission Service

• Automatic Transmission: Dexron II fluid, 7.5 quart capacity
• Manual Transmission: 75W-90 gear oil, 2.5 quart capacity
• Fluid Change: Drain and refill every 30,000 miles
• Filter Replacement: Automatic transmission filter every 60,000 miles
• Shift Linkage: Adjust for proper gear engagement
• Clutch: Replace at 60,000-80,000 miles
• U-Joints: Inspect for wear every 15,000 miles

Brake System

Brake maintenance and repair procedures.

Front Disc Brakes: Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing, caliper service. Rear Drum Brakes: Shoe replacement, wheel cylinder inspection, drum resurfacing.

Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Bleed brakes after any component replacement. Parking brake adjustment: Tighten cable at equalizer.

Suspension & Steering

Front strut replacement, ball joint inspection, tie rod ends.

1. Strut Replacement: Support control arm, remove nuts, compress spring safely
2. Ball Joints: Check for play, replace if movement exceeds 0.125 inches
3. Tie Rod Ends: Count threads for alignment reference
4. Wheel Bearings: Pack with grease, adjust preload

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension work.

Electrical System

Battery, alternator, starter, and wiring diagnostics.

1. Battery: 12V, 45-55 amp-hour capacity
2. Alternator: 65-78 amp output, test voltage regulation
3. Starter: Bench test for proper engagement
4. Fuses: 10-30 amp blade-type fuses
5. Wiring: Check for corrosion, clean connections
6. Lights: Headlight adjustment, bulb replacement
7. Ignition System: Test coil, module, and pickup

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Cooling System

Radiator, thermostat, water pump maintenance.

Coolant: 50/50 ethylene glycol mixture. Capacity: 9.5 quarts. Thermostat: 195°F opening temperature. Water Pump: Replace if leaking or noisy. Hoses: Inspect for cracks and soft spots.

Fuel System

Fuel pump, filter, injector service.

Fuel Pressure: 14.5 psi. Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles. Injectors: Clean every 30,000 miles. Fuel Pump: In-tank electric pump. Throttle Body: Clean with appropriate cleaner.

Body & Interior

Door adjustment, window regulator, trim repair.

CAUTION! Use proper tools for trim removal to avoid damage.

Troubleshooting Guide

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer.

Service: Consult certified Chrysler technician for complex issues.