The 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup equipped with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (Engine Code [D]) represents a rugged and reliable piece of automotive history. Owners of this vehicle know that keeping a vintage truck running smoothly requires more than just pouring in any motor oil. Proper lubrication is essential to prevent premature wear, manage the engine’s operating temperature, and ensure that the manual transmission and differentials shift with precision. Because this truck is now over three decades old, maintaining its original mechanical integrity with high-quality synthetic fluids can extend its lifespan significantly, addressing common issues associated with aging seals and higher-mileage engines.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup 2.0L, the manufacturer specifies a 10W-30 viscosity grade with a capacity of 4.2 quarts when including the filter. The following AMSOIL products are engineered to meet these specifications and provide superior protection compared to conventional oils.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – This top-tier synthetic offers 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear, ensuring the 2.0L engine runs cooler and smoother under load.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Formulated with 37% more cleaning power to help remove sludge and deposits, this oil provides 20,000 miles of guaranteed protection between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 10W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An excellent choice for older engines, this oil fights sludge and deposits effectively while offering protection that rivals original equipment standards.
- AMSOIL 10W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Designed specifically for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, this unique chemistry includes boosted detergents and anti-wear additives to reduce sludge and protect aging engine components.
- WIX Oil Filter – Essential for the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup, this premium filter offers improved media that outperforms many OEM-branded filters to keep contaminants out of your fresh oil.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – With a system capacity of 9.5 quarts, this 50/50 pre-mix formulation protects cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – For those who prefer a concentrated fluid, this option provides exceptional corrosion and erosion protection that greatly surpasses industry standards.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Crucial for the RWD or 4WD manual transmissions, this fluid protects brass synchronizers and offers excellent seal compatibility to prevent leaks in older gearboxes.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – This hydraulic brake fluid provides excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems while maintaining a stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Ideal for the front and rear differentials (GL-5), this lube contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications and controls thermal runaway.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Another excellent choice for GL-5 differentials, offering advanced protection against wear and helping reduce operating temperatures in the differential.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Recommended for power steering systems, this fluid withstands the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A cost-effective alternative that guards against leaks and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts for vehicles requiring this specific fluid type.
Maintaining the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup requires attention to the specific demands of its 2.0-liter D-series engine. The oil capacity for this engine is 4.2 quarts with a filter replacement, and the oil drain plug should be torqued between 26 and 32 ft/lbs. Choosing the right viscosity is critical for temperature regulation. For operating conditions above 0°C (32°F), AMSOIL recommends 10W-30, 10W-40, or 10W-50. In colder climates where temperatures drop below -23°C (-10°F), a 10W-30 or 5W-30 grade is advisable. The engine also requires a specific oil filter to ensure optimal filtration; the WIX Oil Filter is a top recommendation for this application, providing superior filtration media compared to many factory originals.
Beyond the engine, the cooling system holds approximately 9.5 quarts of fluid. Using a high-quality antifreeze like the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is vital. This poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation is phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free, which protects all metals and rubber components in the cooling system while offering up to five years or 150,000 miles of protection. For the cooling system, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is also available as a concentrated option that requires mixing with distilled water, providing robust corrosion resistance for older aluminum and steel components.
The transmission fluid specifications vary depending on whether the vehicle is rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. For the RWD manual transmission (R5M21), a GL-4 fluid with a capacity of 4.9 pints is required. The 4WD manual transmission (V5MT1) also uses a GL-4 fluid, requiring 4.6 pints. In both cases, AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube is the ideal choice. This friction-modified lubricant offers outstanding cold-flow properties and is formulated to protect brass synchronizers, which are prone to wear in older manual gearboxes. It also features excellent seal compatibility to prevent leaks that can occur as rubber seals age and harden over time.
Brake safety is paramount for any vintage vehicle. The 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup requires a DOT 3 hydraulic brake fluid. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is highly recommended for its ability to resist boiling and moisture absorption, ensuring consistent pedal feel and braking performance. For the differential and transfer case lubrication, the requirements are precise. The transfer case requires a GL-4 fluid. The front and rear differentials typically require GL-5 lubricants, with specific recommendations depending on the ambient temperature. For standard differentials, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube provides the necessary extreme pressure protection. If the vehicle is equipped with a limited-slip rear differential, the AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is particularly suitable as it contains friction modifiers compatible with limited-slip mechanisms. The capacity for a standard rear differential is 2.7 pints, while a limited-slip rear differential holds 3.2 pints.
Proper fluid selection goes a long way in preserving the mechanical health of the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup. By utilizing synthetic lubricants across all major systems, owners can reduce friction, lower operating temperatures, and protect against the corrosive effects of moisture and contaminants. This proactive approach to maintenance ensures that the truck remains a reliable daily driver or a capable off-road companion for years to come.
About the Vehicle
The 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup is a quintessential example of a durable, no-nonsense compact truck that was built for utility and longevity. Part of the second generation of the Mitsubishi Mighty Max (known as the L200 in international markets), this generation was produced from 1982 through 1986 for some markets, with the 1987 model year representing a continuation of this robust design. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, designated by the “D” engine code, was the workhorse of this lineup. It is a naturally aspirated engine that prioritizes torque and reliability over high horsepower, making it well-suited for hauling cargo, towing light trailers, and navigating rough terrain. While it does not compete with modern V6 or V8 engines in terms of speed, its simplicity and mechanical robustness are legendary among off-road enthusiasts and farmers alike.
One of the defining characteristics of the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup is its simplicity in design. Unlike modern trucks laden with complex electronics and sensors, this vehicle relies on mechanical linkages and proven engineering. The front suspension uses independent double wishbones with coil springs, providing a relatively smooth ride even with a cargo bed in the rear. The rear suspension typically features a leaf spring setup on solid axles, which is classic for trucks of this era, offering load-bearing capacity and durability. Whether configured with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, the vehicle maintains a consistent driving character: straightforward steering, predictable handling, and a mechanical feel that connects the driver directly to the road.
Despite its enduring reputation for reliability, the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup is not without its quirks, especially as it has aged. Owners often encounter issues related to the aging of the fuel system, particularly with fuel pump failures and the deterioration of fuel lines. The carburetor on the 2.0L engine can also become prone to sticking or clogging if the truck sits for long periods. Furthermore, the brake system can suffer from leaking master cylinders or seized calipers due to age. By using high-quality fluids and additives, many of these problems can be mitigated or managed effectively. For instance, using a fuel stabilizer like AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer during seasonal storage can prevent varnish buildup in the carburetor, while a fuel system cleaner like AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver can help restore injector flow and combustion efficiency.
Another common area of concern for the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup is the cooling system. As the vehicle ages, the radiator and hoses become more susceptible to leaks and clogging. The 9.5-quart cooling system capacity highlights the importance of using a high-performance antifreeze that resists corrosion and cavitation erosion. Synthetic brake fluid is also crucial for maintaining safety, as older fluid tends to absorb moisture, lowering the boiling point and potentially causing brake fade. Additionally, the transfer case and differentials on 4WD models can develop noise or shifting issues if the gear lubricant breaks down. The use of high-quality synthetic gear lubes like AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-110 100% Synthetic Gear Lube can help reduce noise and extend the life of these components.
Ultimately, the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup remains a beloved vehicle for those who value mechanical simplicity and utility. With the right maintenance regimen, including the use of top-tier synthetic lubricants, this classic truck can continue to perform reliably for years. Its design philosophy focuses on function over form, making it an ideal platform for restoration, off-roading, or simply as a dependable workhorse. Owners who take the time to care for their vehicle with premium fluids will find that the 1987 Mitsubishi Pickup rewards them with a driving experience that is both rugged and satisfying.