2004 Mitsubishi Outlander - Powertrain

Fuel System

Outlander's fuel metering is handled by a computer-controlled multi-point fuel injection system. The system's ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is programmed with fuel and ignition maps that are ideal for the production of torque. Upgrades to this fuel system include a new energy-efficient, low-current fuel pump that reduces the current load on the alternator. Also, by integrating the fuel filter into the fuel pump module, engineers reduced the number of pipe connections necessary and improved the fuel system's reliability. The Outlander's aluminum intake manifold is cast with an intake runner design and port volumes that are tuned for maximum performance under 6000 rpm. The throttle body has been enlarged from 54 mm on other models to 60 mm on Outlander to help the engine inhale more air. The design of the manifold and fresh air system help reduce intake noise and vibration at wide-open and partial throttle conditions.

3-1.To help improve collision safety, the fuel hose and related components are routed through the inside of the engine compartment on the transmission side for added impact protection. Additionally, the fuel pump and fuel filter are an integrated unit protected in the fuel tank.

3-2.By mounting each of the fuel lines in a cushioned mount, fuel pump vibration and sound are not transmitted into the cabin.

Exhaust System

3-3.The Outlander's exhaust systems have been improved with a tubular exhaust manifold welded into a Tri-Y format that includes dual front pipes for improved low-to-mid range throttle response, as well as a newly designed main muffler, located at the rear of the vehicle. This new muffler features a built-in variable back-pressure-valve that improves performance and reduces noise at low rpm while reducing back-pressure at higher rpm. Also, in the interest of durability, rust resistance and performance, all of the sections of the exhaust system are comprised of stainless steel pipe. Pipe insulating fabric covers the exhaust manifold for improved exhaust gas scavenging for increased exhaust flow.

Cooling System

3-4. Outlander features a unique radiator core that has been designed for maximum cooling efficiency under heavy load. Heat dissipating aluminum is used for the radiator core, while epoxy resin is used for the cooling tanks, fans, and fan shrouds for reduced weight. Two thermostatically controlled electric cooling fans with integrated shroud are mounted behind the radiator. The fans are controlled by pulse width modulation and spin at the optimal speed relative to coolant temperature, the vehicle's speed, and the operational demands conditions of the air conditioning, thus reducing electrical consumption.

Automatic Transmission

3-5. All Outlander's are equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission with Sportronic(TM) mode that allows drivers to manually actuate gear changes. This transmission comes equipped on both the 2WD and AWD versions of the Outlander. In standard Drive mode ("D") an INVECS-II program controls the shifting action to match the road conditions and the driver's accelerator movements. The INVECS-II computer calculates measures of each driver's reaction and tailors the gearbox's reactions to best suit. When the lever is pushed to the right, into the Sports Mode gate, clutchless shifts can be manually actuated with just a push or tug of the shift lever.

Transfer Case

3-6. On all-wheel drive Outlanders, the center differential operates to regulate an equal torque split between front and rear wheels. Under normal driving conditions torque is split evenly between the front and rear wheels. When the system detects slip in any of the wheels, as may occur at high speeds while in the rain or on pavement, or when driving over dirt, sand or snow-covered surfaces, the VCU (Viscous Coupling Unit) automatically regulates torque split in proportion to the rotational speed differential between the front and rear wheels.

3-7.The system manages the torque split between the wheels in such a way to deliver optimum traction in all conditions. This technology was designed and tested in World Rally Championship competition in the Lancer Evolution series of vehicles.

Drive Shafts

Given the Outlander's two drivetrain configurations, 2WD and AWD, several driveshaft types are employed.

3-8. The driveshafts are designed for improved smoothness and vibration dampening. The front wheels use an isometric type driveshaft of the transmission side that helps reduce vibration from a standing start. A dynamic damper is used in the center of the front FWD's left hand driveshaft to help suppress differential noise. The diameter of the center section of the driveshaft was also optimized to help reduce vibration.

3-9. All wheel drive Outlanders use a unique front left hand driveshaft and equal length rear driveshafts.

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