It originally appeared in Automotive Rebuilder Magazine and is being reprinted by permission. In early 1987, Chrysler introduced a new engine option for the company's successful minivans. The new engine option offered V6 power - a must for American consumers. This new V6 was, like the 2.6L, sourced from Chrysler's partner, Mitsubishi. Utilizing overhead cam construction, aluminum cylinder heads, cast iron block, and multiport fuel injection, this powertrain was a big step up from the old 2.6L four.
Cylinder heads are aluminum, of a single overhead camshaft design, with two valves per cylinder.
The head castings themselves are interchangeable. Rocker arms are mounted on shafts, with a lash adjuster in the tip riding on the tip of the valve. For the 1990 model year, the rocker arms were changed to a roller design. Engine life seems to be good, with many of these motors reaching 200,000 to 300,000 miles. The oil leaks and consumption problems can be traced to several causes.