The heart of your 1983 Chrysler NEW YORKER is the 2.2L four-cylinder engine, which requires a precise oil capacity of 4.5 quarts when the filter is replaced. It is crucial to check the oil level after the refill to ensure the correct quantity has been added. The engine drain plug should be torqued to 20 ft/lbs during maintenance to prevent leaks or damage to the aluminum pan.
For the 1983 model year, the recommended viscosities vary based on the ambient operating temperature. The AMSOIL Signature Series 10W-30 is ideal for most conditions, providing a robust barrier against wear. For colder climates where temperatures drop below -16°C, lighter viscosity oils like 5W-40 are preferred. Conversely, in hotter environments exceeding 16°C, thicker grades such as 20W-40 or 20W-50 can offer additional protection against thinning oil films.
Filtration System
Clean oil is just as important as the oil itself. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (Code EA15K51-EA) is engineered to work in tandem with synthetic motor oils, offering superior filtering efficiency that captures smaller particles than many competing filters. This reduces engine wear and extends the life of the filter itself, allowing it to last for the full duration of the synthetic oil change interval. For owners who prefer a well-known aftermarket brand, the WIX Oil Filter (Code 51348-EA) provides premium media that outperforms many OEM-branded filters, ensuring that contaminants are effectively removed from the circulating oil.
Cooling System Requirements
The cooling system for the 2.2L engine holds a capacity of 9 quarts. Maintaining the correct antifreeze mixture is vital for preventing corrosion and overheating, especially in a vehicle that has seen decades of service. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant (Code ANTPC1G-EA) is a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that is phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free, making it safe for all cooling system metals and hoses. It comes as a 50/50 pre-mix, ready to use for protection up to 150,000 miles or five years.
For those who prefer to mix their own antifreeze, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant (Code ANT1G-EA) offers a concentrated solution. This product greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion, providing excellent protection for the engine block and radiator. It is compatible with all other antifreeze and coolant colors, offering flexibility during fluid top-offs or flushes.
Transmission and Fluids
The automatic transmission in this vehicle, specifically the A470 or A413 models, requires careful attention to fluid levels. The total fill capacity is approximately 8.9 quarts, with an initial fill of 4 quarts. Using a synthetic transmission fluid ensures smooth, shudder-free shifts and protects the internal components from wear and sludge buildup. The AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (Code ATFPK-EA) remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures and withstands the rigors of heavy use, while the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (Code OTFQT-EA) is an excellent choice for standard driving conditions, promoting long fluid life and leak protection.
Braking and Steering Systems
Safety systems like the brakes and power steering require high-quality fluids to function correctly. The recommended hydraulic brake fluid is a DOT 3 type meeting MS-4574 specifications. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides stable viscosity and excellent responsiveness for both ABS and traction-control systems. For the power steering system, which requires fluid meeting PS009 specifications, the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid (Code PSFCN-EA) offers strong anti-wear protection and helps prevent leaks by keeping seals soft and pliable.
About the Vehicle
The 1983 Chrysler NEW YORKER represents a significant era in American automotive history, bridging the gap between the full-size land-yacht designs of the 1960s and 1970s and the more modern, fuel-efficient vehicles that would follow. During this period, Chrysler was actively transitioning its lineup to meet stricter government emissions and fuel economy standards, leading to the introduction of smaller engines like the 2.2L inline-four. This engine was one of the first domestically produced four-cylinder engines to gain a reputation for reliability and performance, eventually becoming a staple in Chrysler vehicles for many years.
The NEW YORKER of this era was positioned as a premium full-size sedan, offering a comfortable and spacious interior that appealed to drivers who valued a smooth ride and luxurious amenities. Despite the shift toward smaller engines, the vehicle retained the characteristic Chrysler ride quality, known for its isolation from road noise and a suspension setup that absorbed imperfections with ease. The 2.2L engine, while not a powerhouse in the traditional sense, provided adequate power for the heavy sedan body and offered improved fuel economy compared to the larger V8 engines that were being phased out. Owners of this vehicle often appreciate its classic American styling, which features a long hood, formal roofline, and a presence that commanded respect on the road. Maintaining this classic with high-quality lubricants ensures that the driving experience remains as smooth and reliable today as it was when it first rolled off the assembly line.