oil type DODGE NEON 1999 Service User Guide
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Page 148 of 1200

(3) Remove the rubber plug from the adjusting
hole in the brake shoe backing plate on both sides of
the vehicle.
(4)Driver (left) side park brake shoe adjust-
ment procedure.Insert a medium size screwdriver
through adjustment hole in backing plate. Position
the srewdriver against the starwheel on the park
brake shoe adjuster mechanism. Using the screw-
driver rotate the starwheeldownwarduntil a slight
drag is felt when turning the rear tire and wheel.
Then, using the screwdriver rotate the starwheel
upwardjust until the rear tire and wheel can be
rotated with no park brake shoe drag. From the
point where there is no more park brake drag rotate
the starwheelupwarda maximum of two additional
clicks. The park brake shoe to drum clearance is
know properly adjusted.
(5)Passenger (right) side park brake shoe
adjustment procedure.Insert a medium size
screwdriver through adjustment hole in backing
plate. Position the srewdriver against the starwheel
on the park brake shoe adjuster mechanism. Using
the screwdriver rotate the starwheelupwarduntil a
slight drag is felt when turning the rear tire and
wheel. Then, using the screwdriver rotate the star-
wheeldownwardjust until the rear tire and wheel
can be rotated with no park brake shoe drag. From
the point where there is no more park brake drag
rotate the starwheeldownwarda maximum of two
additional clicks. The park brake shoe to drum clear-
ance is know properly adjusted.
(6) Install the rubber plug in the adjusting hole on
the brake shoe backing plate on both sides of the
vehicle.
(7) Lower vehicle far enough to allow access the
park brake lever. The rear tires must not be on the
ground.
(8) Fully apply and release the park brakes two
times after adjusting the park brake shoes. Then
rotate both rear wheels to ensure that the park
brake shoes do not drag on the brake drum following
the application and release of the park brakes.
SPECIFICATIONS
BRAKE FLUID
The brake fluid used in this vehicle must conform
to DOT 3 specifications and SAE J1703 standards.
No other type of brake fluid is recommended or
approved for usage in the vehicle brake system. Use
only Mopar brake fluid or an equivalent from a
tightly sealed container.
CAUTION: Never use reclaimed brake fluid or fluid
from an container which has been left open. Anopen container will absorb moisture from the air
and contaminate the fluid.
CAUTION: Never use any type of a petroleum-
based fluid in the brake hydraulic system. Use of
such type fluids will result in seal damage of the
vehicle brake hydraulic system causing a failure of
the vehicle brake system. Petroleum based fluids
would be items such as engine oil, transmission
fluid, power steering fluid ect.
BRAKE ACTUATION SYSTEM
ACTUATION:
Vacuum Operated Power Brakes.........Standard
Hydraulic System...........Dual-Diagonally Split
MASTER CYLINDER ASSEMBLY:
Type ...........................Dual Tandem
Body Material...............Anodized Aluminum
Reservoir Material................Polypropelene
MASTER CYLINDER BORE / STROKE
AND SPLIT:
NonABS ....21mmx32.6 mm (.875 in. x 1.28 in.)
ABS........21mmx32.7 mm (.874 in. x 1.29 in.)
Displacement Split.....................50/50
MASTER CYLINDER FLUID OUTLET PORTS:
ABS ..........Primary 3/8±24 Secondary 7/16±24
Non ABS . . .Primary Inboard And Outboard 7/16±24
Non ABS . . .Secondary Inboard And Outboard 3/8±23
Outlet Fitting Type.......SAE 45 É Inverted Flare
ABS HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT:
Hydraulic Tube Fitting Type.SAE 45 É Inverted Flare
BOOSTER:
Make/Type.........Bendix Vacuum W/&W/O ABS
Mounting Studs.....................M8x1.25
Type ..........................230 mm Single
Boost At 20 inches Of Manifold Vacuum. . . .4690 All
PROPORTIONING VALVE:
Material...........................Aluminum
Function........Hydraulic Pressure Proportioning
BRAKE PEDAL
Pedal Ratio.............................3.28
BRAKE FASTENER TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION TORQUE
BRAKE TUBES:
Tube Nuts To Fittings And
Components Except HCU. . . . 17 N´m (145 in. lbs.)
From Master Cylinder To
HCU At HCU Ports........21N´m(185 in. lbs.)
BRAKE HOSE:
To Caliper Banjo Bolt..........48N´m(35ft.lbs.)
Intermediate Bracket.........12N´m(105 in. lbs.)
PLBRAKES 5 - 67
ADJUSTMENTS (Continued)
Page 155 of 1200

integral part of the rear wheel hub and bearing
assembly. The speed sensor air gap on both applica-
tions is NOT adjustable.
The four Wheel Speed Sensors are serviced individ-
ually. The front Tone Wheels are serviced as an
assembly with the outboard constant velocity joint.
The rear Tone Wheels are serviced as an assembly
with the rear hub and bearing assembly.
Correct ABS system operation is dependent on
accurate wheel speed signals. The vehicle's wheels
and tires must all be the same size and type to gen-
erate accurate signals. Variations in wheel and tire
size can produce inaccurate wheel speed signals.
CONTROLLER ANTILOCK BRAKES (CAB)
The Controller Antilock Brakes (CAB) is a micro-
processor based device which monitors the ABS sys-
tem during normal braking and controls it when the
vehicle is in an ABS stop. The CAB is mounted to the
bottom of the HCU (Fig. 10). The CAB uses a 25 way
electrical connector on the vehicle wiring harness.
The power source for the CAB is through the ignitionswitch in the Run or On position.THE (CAB) IS ON
THE CCD BUS
The primary functions of the (CAB) are:
(1) Detect wheel locking or wheel slipping tenden-
cies by monitoring the speed of all four wheels of the
vehicle.
(2) Control fluid modulation to the wheel brakes
while the system is in an ABS mode or the traction
control system is activated.
(3) Monitor the system for proper operation.
(4) Provide communication to the DRB Scan Tool
while in diagnostic mode.
(5) Store diagnostic information.
The CAB continuously monitors the speed of each
wheel through the signals generated by the wheel
speed sensors to determine if any wheel is beginning
to lock. When a wheel locking tendency is detected,
the CAB commands the CAB command coils to actu-
ate. The CAB command coils then open and close the
valves in the HCU which modulate brake fluid pres-
sure in some or all of the hydraulic circuits. The CAB
continues to control pressure in individual hydraulic
circuits until a locking tendency is no longer present.
The ABS system is constantly monitored by the
CAB for proper operation. If the CAB detects a fault,
it will turn on the Amber ABS Warning Lamp and
disable the ABS braking system. The normal base
braking system will remain operational.
The CAB contains a self-diagnostic program which
will turn on the Amber ABS Warning Lamp when a
ABS system fault is detected. Faults are then stored
in a diagnostic program memory. There are multiple
fault messages which may be stored in the CAB and
displayed through the DRB Scan Tool. These fault
messages will remain in the CAB memory even after
the ignition has been turned off. The fault messages
can be read and or cleared from the CAB memory by
a technician using the DRB Scan Tool. The fault
occurrence and the fault code will also be automati-
Fig. 8 Front Wheel Speed Sensor
Fig. 9 Rear Wheel Speed Sensor With Disc Brakes
Fig. 10 Controller Antilock Brake (CAB)
5 - 74 BRAKESPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
Page 174 of 1200

CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION
SWITCH±MECHANICAL TEST
With the park brake set and the vehicleIN NEU-
TRAL,turn the key to the start position. The vehicle
should not crank. If the vehicle cranks, the switch is
defective (shorted out) and must be replaced. If the
vehicle does not crank, proceed to the next step.
WARNING: BEFORE PERFORMING THIS STEP, BE
SURE THAT THE AREA IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE
IS CLEAR OF OBSTRUCTIONS AND PEOPLE. VEHI-
CLE MAY MOVE WHEN PERFORMING THIS TEST.
With the park brake set and the vehicleIN GEAR,
turn the key to the start position and hold it there.
Slowly depress the clutch pedal and feel for any
vehicle motion when the starter is energized. If there
is no motion, the switch is working properly.
If motion is felt, check to see if the switch is mak-
ing contact when the pedal is between 25 mm (1.0
in.) and 6 mm (0.25 in.) from the floor. If this condi-
tion is met, then the problem is either the clutch orthe self-adjusting cable (See ªClutch Will Not Disen-
gage Properlyº). If this condition is not met, then the
switch mounting tab on the brake bracket is bent,
and the brake bracket must be replaced.
If vehicle will not crank, even with clutch pedal
pressed to the floor, refer to ªService Diagnosis-
Clutch Pedal Position Switchº chart in this section.
CLUTCH DIAGNOSIS
Problem diagnosis will generally require a road
test to determine the type of fault. Component
inspection will then determine the problem after road
testing.
Drive the vehicle at normal speeds during road
test. Shift the transaxle through all gear ranges and
observe clutch action. If chatter, grab, slip, or
improper release is experienced, remove and inspect
the clutch components. If the problem is noise or
hard shifting, further diagnosis may be needed. The
transaxle or other driveline components may actually
be at fault.
SERVICE DIAGNOSISÐCLUTCH GRAB/CHATTER
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
CLUTCH DISC FACING
COVERED WITH OIL OR
GREASEOil leak at engine rear main or
transaxle input shaft sealCorrect leak and replace w/modular clutch
assembly
Too much grease applied to splines
of disc and input shaftApply lighter coating of grease to splines
NO FAULT FOUND WITH
CLUTCH
COMPONENTSProblem actually related to
suspension or driveline componentFurther diagnosis required. Check
engine/transmission mounts, suspension
attaching parts and other driveline
components as needed.
Engine related problems Check EFI and ignition systems
PARTIAL ENGAGEMENT
OF CLUTCH DISCClutch cover, spring, or release
fingers bent, distorted (rough
handling, improper assembly)Replace w/modular clutch assembly
Clutch disc damaged or distorted Replace w/modular clutch assembly
Clutch misalignment Check alignment and runout of flywheel,
disc, or cover. Check clutch housing to
engine dowels and dowel holes for damage.
Correct as necessary.
PLCLUTCH 6 - 3
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
Page 196 of 1200

ENGINE THERMOSTAT
The engine thermostat is located on the front of
the engine (radiator side) in the thermostat housing/
engine outlet connector. The thermostat has an air
bleed (vent) located in the flange and a O-ring for
sealing incorporate on it. There is a relief in the ther-
mostat housing/outlet connector for the O-ring.
WATER PUMP
The water pump has a diecast aluminum body and
housing with a stamped steel impeller. The water
pump bolts directly to the block (Fig. 4). Cylinder
block to water pump sealing is provided by a rubber
O-ring. The water pump is driven by the timing belt.
Refer to Group 9, Engine section for component
removal to access the water pump.
NOTE: The water pump on all models can be
replaced without discharging the air conditioning
system.
COOLANT
The cooling system is designed around the coolant.
The coolant must accept heat from engine block
metal and in the cylinder head area near the exhaust
valves. Then coolant carries this heat to the radiator
where the tube/fin assemblies of these components
can give off the heat to the air.
MopartAntifreeze or the equivalent is recom-
mended for optimum cooling performance and corro-
sion protection when mixed to a freeze point of -37É C
(-35É F).
COOLANT REPLACEMENT
Refer to Group 0, Lubrication and Maintenance for
schedule.
COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE CAP
The cooling system is equipped with a pressure cap
that releases pressure at some point within a range
of 97-124 kPa (14-18 psi) (Fig. 5).
The system will operate at higher than atmo-
spheric pressure, which raises the coolant boiling
point, allowing increased radiator cooling capacity.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER
Oil coolers are internal oil to coolant type, mounted
in the radiator lower tank (Fig. 6). Rubber oil lines
feed the oil cooler and the automatic transmission.
Use only approved transmission oil cooler hose. Since
these are molded to fit space available, molded hoses
are recommended. Tighten Oil Cooler Hose Clamps
to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
RADIATOR
The radiator is a down-flow type (vertical tubes)
with design features that provide greater strength,
as well as sufficient heat transfer capabilities to keep
the engine satisfactorily cooled (Fig. 6).
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
The engine block heater is available as an optional
accessory. The heater, operated by ordinary house
current (110 Volt A.C.) through a power cord and con-
nector behind the radiator grille, provides easier
engine starting and faster warm-up when vehicle is
operated in areas having extremely low tempera-
tures.
Fig. 4 Water Pump
Fig. 5 Cooling System Pressure Cap
PLCOOLING 7 - 3
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Page 197 of 1200

DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
ENGINE THERMOSTAT
The engine cooling thermostats are wax pellet
driven, reverse poppet choke type. They are designed
to provide the fastest warm up possible by prevent-
ing leakage through them and to guarantee a mini-
mum engine operating temperature of 88 to 93ÉC
(192 to 199ÉF). They also automatically reach wide
open so they do not restrict flow to the radiator as
temperature of the coolant rises in hot weather to
around 104ÉC (220ÉF). Above this temperature the
coolant temperature is controlled by the radiator, fan,
and ambient temperature, not the thermostat.
Its primary purpose is to maintain engine temper-
ature in a range that will provide satisfactory engine
performance and emission levels under all expected
driving conditions. It also provides hot water (cool-
ant) for heater performance. It does this by transfer-
ring heat from engine metal and automatic
transmission oil cooler (if equipped) to coolant, mov-
ing this heated coolant to the heater core and radia-
tor, and then transferring this heat to the ambient
air.
COOLANT PERFORMANCE
Performance is measurable. For heat transfer pure
water excels (Formula = 1 btu per minute for each
degree of temperature rise for each pound of water).
This formula is altered when necessary additives to
control boiling, freezing, and corrosion are added as
follows:
²Pure Water (1 btu) boils at 100ÉC (212ÉF) and
freezes at 0ÉC (32ÉF).
²100 Percent Glycol (.7 btu) can cause a hot
engine and detonation and will raise the freeze point
to 22ÉC (-8ÉF).
²50/50 Glycol and Water (.82 btu) is the recom-
mended combination that provides a freeze point of
-37ÉC(-35ÉF). The radiator, water pump, engine water
jacket, radiator pressure cap, thermostat, tempera-
ture gauge, sending unit and heater are all designed
for 50/50 glycol.
Where required, a 56 percent glycol and 44 percent
water mixture will provide a freeze point of -59ÉC
(-50ÉF).
CAUTION: Richer mixtures cannot be measured
with field equipment which can lead to problems
associated with 100 percent glycol.
Fig. 6 Cooling Modules
7 - 4 COOLINGPL
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Page 198 of 1200

SELECTION AND ADDITIVES
The use of aluminum cylinder heads, intake mani-
folds DOHC, and water pumps requires special corro-
sion protection. MopartAntifreeze or the equivalent
is recommended for best engine cooling without cor-
rosion. When mixed only to a freeze point of -37ÉC
(-35ÉF) to -59ÉC (-50ÉF). If it looses color or becomes
contaminated, drain, flush, and replace with fresh
properly mixed solution.
COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE CAP
The cooling system is equipped with a pressure cap
that releases built up pressure, maintaining a range
of 97-124 kPa (14-18 psi).
The cooling system will operate at higher than
atmospheric pressure. The higher pressure raises the
coolant boiling point thus, allowing increased radia-
tor cooling capacity.
There is a vent valve in the center of the cap that
allows a small coolant flow from the coolant reserve
system (CRS) tank. This valve is spring loaded in the
closed position. However it must be free to open dur-
ing system cool-down.If the valve is stuck shut,
the radiator hoses will collapse on cool-down.
Clean the vent valve (Fig. 7) to ensure proper
sealing function.
There is a gasket in the cap that seals to the top of
the filler neck so that vacuum is maintained to draw
coolant back into the system from the coolant reserve
system (CRS) tank.
RADIATOR HOSES AND CLAMPS
WARNING: IF VEHICLE HAS BEEN RUN
RECENTLY, WAIT 15 MINUTES BEFORE WORKING
ON VEHICLE. RELIEVE PRESSURE BY PLACING A
SHOP TOWEL OVER THE CAP AND WITHOUT
PUSHING DOWN ROTATE IT COUNTERCLOCKWISE
TO THE FIRST STOP. ALLOW FLUIDS TO ESCAPE
THROUGH THE OVERFLOW TUBE AND WHEN THE
SYSTEM STOPS PUSHING OUT COOLANT AND
STEAM AND THE PRESSURE DROPS CONTINUE
SERVICE.
WARNING: CONSTANT TENSION HOSE CLAMPS
ARE USED ON MOST COOLING SYSTEM HOSES.
WHEN REMOVING OR INSTALLING, USE ONLY
TOOLS DESIGNED FOR SERVICING THIS TYPE OF
CLAM. ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN
SERVICING CONSTANT TENSION CLAMPS.
CAUTION: A number or letter is stamped into the
tongue of constant tension clamps. If replacement
is necessary, use only a original equipment clamp
with matching number or letter.The hose clamps are removed by using Special Tool
6094 or equivalent constant tension clamp pliers
(Fig. 8) to compress hose clamp.
A hardened, cracked, swollen or restricted hose
should be replaced. Do not damage radiator inlet and
outlet when loosening hoses.
Radiator hoses should be routed without any kinks
and indexed as designed. The use of molded hoses is
recommended.
Spring type hose clamps are used in all applica-
tions. If replacement is necessary replace with the
original Mopartequipment spring type clamp.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
The heater is mounted in a core hole (in place of a
core hole plug) in the engine block, with the heating
element immersed in coolant.The power cord
must be secured in its retainer clips, and not
positioned so it could contact linkages or
exhaust manifolds and become damaged.
If unit does not operate, trouble can be in either
the power cord or the heater element. Test power
cord for continuity with a 110-volt voltmeter or 110-
volt test light; test heater element continuity with an
ohmmeter or 12-volt test light.
Fig. 7 Cooling System Pressure Cap
PLCOOLING 7 - 5
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
Page 237 of 1200

A battery temperature sensor located on the front
bumper beam is used to sense battery temperature.
This temperature data, along with data from moni-
tored line voltage, is used by the PCM to vary the
battery charging rate. This is done by cycling the
ground path to control the strength of the rotor mag-
netic field. The PCM then compensates and regulates
generator current output accordingly and to maintain
the proper voltage depending on battery tempera-
ture.
All vehicles are equipped with On-Board Diagnos-
tics (OBD). All OBD-sensed systems, including the
EVR (field control) circuitry, are monitored by the
PCM. Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnos-
tic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in
electronic memory for any failure it detects. See On-
Board Diagnostic System Test in this group for more
information.
GENERATOR
The generator is belt-driven by the engine. It is
serviced only as a complete assembly. If the genera-
tor fails for any reason, the entire assembly must be
replaced.
As the energized rotor begins to rotate within the
generator, the spinning magnetic field induces a cur-
rent into the windings of the stator coil. Once the
generator begins producing sufficient current, it also
provides the current needed to energize the rotor.
The Y type stator winding connections deliver the
induced AC current to 3 positive and 3 negative
diodes for rectification. From the diodes, rectified DC
current is delivered to the vehicle electrical system
through the generator, battery, and ground terminals.
Noise emitting from the generator may be caused
by:
²Worn, loose or defective bearings
²Loose or defective drive pulley
²Incorrect, worn, damaged or misadjusted drive
belt
²Loose mounting bolts
²Misaligned drive pulley
²Defective stator or diode
BATTERY TEMPERATURE SENSOR
The battery temperature sensor is used to deter-
mine the battery temperature. This temperature
data, along with data from monitored line voltage, is
used by the PCM to vary the battery charging rate.
System voltage will be higher at colder temperatures
and is gradually reduced at warmer temperatures.
The sensor is located on the bottom of the battery
tray (Fig. 1).
ELECTRONIC VOLTAGE REGULATOR
The Electronic Voltage Regulator (EVR) is not a
separate component. It is actually a voltage regulat-
ing circuit located within the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM). The EVR is not serviced separately. If
replacement is necessary, the PCM must be replaced.
Operation:The amount of DC current produced
by the generator is controlled by EVR circuitry con-
tained within the PCM. This circuitry is connected in
series with the generators second rotor field terminal
and its ground.
Voltage is regulated by cycling the ground path to
control the strength of the rotor magnetic field. The
EVR circuitry monitors system line voltage and bat-
tery temperature (refer to Battery Temperature Sen-
sor for more information). It then compensates and
regulates generator current output accordingly. Also
refer to Charging System Operation for additional
information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
CHARGING SYSTEM
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON posi-
tion, battery potential will register on the voltmeter.
During engine cranking a lower voltage will appear
on the meter. With the engine running, a voltage
reading higher than the first reading (ignition in ON)
should register.
The following are possible symptoms of a charging
system fault:
²The voltmeter does not operate properly
²An undercharged or overcharged battery condi-
tion occurs.
Fig. 1 Battery Temperature Sensor
8C - 2 CHARGING SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
Page 251 of 1200

The major difference between the two engines is
component location which affects the ignition system
service procedures. There are various sensors that
are in different locations due to a different cylinder
head and intake manifold.
The 2.0L engines use a fixed ignition timing sys-
tem. The distributorless electronic ignition system is
referred to as the Direct Ignition System (DIS).
Basic ignition timing is not adjustable.The
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) determines spark
advance. The system's three main components are
the coil pack, crankshaft position sensor, and cam-
shaft position sensor.
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls the
ignition system (Fig. 1). The PCM supplies battery
voltage to the ignition coil through the Auto Shut-
down (ASD) Relay. The PCM also controls the ground
circuit for the ignition coil. By switching the ground
path for the coil on and off, the PCM adjusts ignition
timing to meet changing engine operating conditions.
During the crank-start period the PCM maintains
spark advance at 9É BTDC. During engine operation
the following inputs determine the amount of spark
advance provided by the PCM.
²Intake air temperature
²Coolant temperature
²Engine RPM
²Intake manifold vacuum
²Knock sensor
The PCM also regulates the fuel injection system.
Refer to the Fuel Injection sections of Group 14.
SPARK PLUGS
The 2.0L engines uses resistor spark plugs. For
spark plug identification and specifications, Refer to
the Specifications section at the end of this group.Remove the spark plugs and examine them for
burned electrodes and fouled, cracked or broken por-
celain insulators. Keep plugs arranged in the order
in which they were removed from the engine. An iso-
lated plug displaying an abnormal condition indicates
that a problem exists in the corresponding cylinder.
Replace spark plugs at the intervals recommended in
Group 0.
Spark plugs that have low mileage may be cleaned
and reused if not otherwise defective. Refer to the
Spark Plug Condition section of this group. After
cleaning, file the center electrode flat with a small
point file or jewelers file. Adjust the gap between the
electrodes (Fig. 2) to the dimensions specified in the
chart at the end of this section.
Always tighten spark plugs to the specified torque.
Over tightening can cause distortion and damage.
Tighten spark plugs to 28 N´m (20 ft. lbs.) torque.
SPARK PLUG CABLES
Spark plug cables are sometimes referred to as sec-
ondary ignition wires. The wires transfer electrical
current from the coil pack to individual spark plugs
at each cylinder. The resistor type, nonmetallic spark
plug cables provide suppression of radio frequency
emissions from the ignition system.
Check the spark plug cable connections for good
contact at the coil and spark plugs. Terminals should
be fully seated. The nipples and spark plug covers
should be in good condition. Nipples should fit tightly
on the coil. Spark plug boot should completely cover
the spark plug hole in the cylinder head cover. Install
the boot until the terminal snaps over the spark
plug. A snap must be felt to ensure the spark plug
cable terminal engaged the spark plug.
Loose cable connections will corrode, increase resis-
tance and permit water to enter the coil towers.
These conditions can cause ignition malfunction.
Fig. 1 Powertrain Control Module
Fig. 2 Setting Spark Plug Electrode Gap
8D - 2 IGNITION SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
Page 260 of 1200

ELECTRODE GAP BRIDGING
Loose deposits in the combustion chamber can
cause electrode gap bridging. The deposits accumu-
late on the spark plugs during continuous stop-
and-go driving. When the engine is suddenly
subjected to a high torque load, the deposits partially
liquefy and bridge the gap between the electrodes
(Fig. 23). This short circuits the electrodes.Spark
plugs with electrode gap bridging can be
cleaned and reused.
SCAVENGER DEPOSITS
Fuel scavenger deposits may be either white or yel-
low (Fig. 24). They may appear to be harmful, but
are a normal condition caused by chemical additives
in certain fuels. These additives are designed tochange the chemical nature of deposits and decrease
spark plug misfire tendencies. Notice that accumula-
tion on the ground electrode and shell area may be
heavy but the deposits are easily removed.Spark
plugs with scavenger deposits can be consid-
ered normal in condition, cleaned and reused.
CHIPPED ELECTRODE INSULATOR
A chipped electrode insulator usually results from
bending the center electrode while adjusting the
spark plug electrode gap. Under certain conditions,
severe detonation also can separate the insulator
from the center electrode (Fig. 25).Spark plugs
with chipped electrode insulators must be
replaced.
PREIGNITION DAMAGE
Excessive combustion chamber temperature can
cause preignition damage. First, the center electrode
dissolves and the ground electrode dissolves some-
what later (Fig. 26). Insulators appear relatively
deposit free. Determine if the spark plugs are the
correct type, as specified on the VECI label, or if
Fig. 22 Oil or Ash Encrusted
Fig. 23 Electrode Gap Bridging
Fig. 24 Scavenger Deposits
Fig. 25 Chipped Electrode Insulator
PLIGNITION SYSTEM 8D - 11
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
Page 271 of 1200

When the ignition switch is in the OFF position, or
when the radio frequency is being displayed, time
keeping is accurately maintained.
The procedure for setting the clock varies slightly
with each radio. The correct procedure is described in
the individual radio operating instructions. Refer to
the Owner's Manual supplied with the vehicle.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
There are two conventional instrument cluster
assemblies available. The clusters electronically drive
the speedometer, odometer, and gauges (Fig. 1) and
(Fig. 2).
GAUGES
All gauges in the electronic clusters are the analog
type gauges. When the ignition switch is moved to
the OFF position, the cluster drives each gauge to its
lowest position.
WARNING AND INDICATOR LAMPS
The instrument cluster has warning lamps and
indicators for the following systems:
²Airbag
²Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) if equipped
²Brake warning
²Charging System
²Door Ajar
²High beam indicator
²Low oil pressure
²Malfunction indicator (service engine soon) lamp
²Right and left turn signals.
²Seat belt warning
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
AIRBAG WARNING SYSTEM
For testing of this system refer to Group 8M,
Restraint Systems.
BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LAMP TEST
The brake warning lamp illuminates when the
parking brake is applied with ignition switch turned
to the ON position. The same lamp will also illumi-
nate if one of the two service brake systems fail the
when brake pedal is applied.
To test the system:
²As the ignition switch is turned to the start posi-
tion the lamp should light.
²Turn ignition switch to the ON position and
apply the parking brake. The lamp should light.
If lamp fails to light inspect for:
²A burned out lamp
²Loose, corroded or damaged socket
²A damaged circuit board
²A broken or disconnected wire at the switch
²Defective switch
To test the service brake warning system, refer to
Group 5, Brakes, Hydraulic System Control Valves.
FOG LAMP SWITCH TEST
(1) Remove the fog lamp switch. Refer to the Rear
Window Defogger and/or Fog Lamp Switch Removal.
(2) Using two jumper wires, connect Pin 2 and Pin
4 of the switch to battery voltage.
(3) Using a test lamp, connect the test lamp to Pin
3 as shown in (Fig. 3). Refer to (Fig. 4) for fog lamp
switch circuit.
(4) Push the fog lamp switch button. The test lamp
and the LED indicator on the front of the switch
should illuminate.
(5) If either the LED or the test lamp fails to illu-
minate, replace the switch.Fig. 1 Instrument Cluster Without Tachometer
Fig. 2 Instrument Cluster With Tachometer
Fig. 3 Fog Lamp Switch Test
8E - 2 INSTRUMENT PANEL AND SYSTEMSPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)