Interior - Idle Vibration
NO.: TSB-93-14-002DATE: November, 1993
MODEL: Various, See Below
SUBJECT:
IDLE VIBRATION CAUSED BY INCORRECTLY INSTALLED RADIATOR
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
On some 1989 and later vehicles with 4-cylinder engines (mostly, vehicles equipped with automatic transaxle), the two upper radiator mounting posts may not be centered in their mounting brackets. Also, the two lower radiator mounting posts may not be fully seated in their brackets. If the radiator mounting posts are not properly installed, the radiator can transmit an engine vibration through the frame to the passenger compartment during vehicle idle.
This bulletin explains how to decrease the vibration by checking and adjusting the radiator mounting points.
VEHICLES AFFECTED
1989-94 Mirage
1989-94 Galant
1990-94 Eclipse
1992-94 Expo/Expo LRV
DESCRIPTION
Should a customer complain of excessive vibration at idle, check the two upper radiator mounting brackets for proper alignment. As shown in the illustration, these mounting brackets must be centered on the radiator mounting posts.
If the radiator mounting brackets are not centered on the mounting posts, the engine vibration dampening function of the radiator will be minimized. The radiator may then transmit engine vibration through the vehicle's frame, to the passenger compartment, causing a vibration to be felt during idle.
To correct this condition, use the following procedure.
CAUTION:
Observe all shop safety practices applicable to the procedure. Do not perform the procedure on a hot engine.
NOTE:
To increase initial customer satisfaction, the procedure should also be performed during PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection) and A/C system installation.
1. Examine the upper radiator mounting brackets. If the brackets are centered on the radiator mounting posts and the radiator moves freely within the brackets, the radiator is mounted correctly and no action is required. If the brackets are not centered, go to Step 2.
2. Remove the upper radiator mounting brackets. Check the radiator to ensure its two bottom mounting posts are seated in the lower mounting brackets.
3. Center the upper brackets over the mounting posts. Torque the mounting bracket bolts 9-14 N-m (7-10 ft.lbs.).
4. Measure the clearance between both upper mounting brackets and top of the radiator. The clearance should be 1 mm or more.
5. If the clearance is correct and the brackets are centered, test the vehicle's idle quality to ensure the vibration has diminished.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
OPERATION NUMBER: 14503400
POSITION CODE: 145034
NATURE CODE: 82C
CAUSAL CODE: 480
LABOR TIME ALLOWANCE: Actual time, up to 0.5 hrs.
WARRANTY COVERAGE: 36/36 Basic Warranty