The Mitsubishi 380 is a mid-size car that was produced between 2005 and 2008 by Mitsubishi Motors Australia. Available only as a sedan, it marked the end of Australian production by the Japanese manufacturer.

The 380, given the model designation DB, was the successor to the Mitsubishi Magna/Verada line of vehicles first introduced in 1985 (and 1991 for the Verada) but was only available as a sedan. The company spent over A0 million developing and producing the car, which is heavily based on the ninth generation Mitsubishi Galant designed in the United States. The 380 continued the Mitsubishi Australia tradition of producing front-wheel drive sedans for the Australian market, and along with the Toyota Aurion, competed against the rear-wheel drive Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore vehicles.

Even before the car's launch in October 2005, the 380 was stigmatised as the "make or break" model for Mitsubishi Australia. After a slow sales start, the line-up was updated with the Series II in April 2006, with the entry level model receiving price discount of nearly 20 percent. To generate further interest in the car, a Series III revision came on 29 July 2007 with mainly cosmetic changes. These updates failed to lift sales, and with production still unprofitable, Mitsubishi ceased manufacturing of the 380 in March 2008 after just short of three years in production. A total of 32,044 were produced over the three year production, of which 30,195 were sold in Australia.

The development of the 380 began in 2002, when company executives in Japan gave approval to Mitsubishi Australia to commence work on two closely related vehicles. The first of which was a right-hand drive variant of the ninth generation Mitsubishi Galant, designated the codename PS41. This was to be the replacement for the Magna and Verada. The second, which was planned to be launched in 2007 was a long-wheelbase version known internally as PS41L to be produced in both left- and right-hand drive configurations.However, as Mitsubishi's financial woes worsened, and DaimlerChrysler pulled-out of the DaimlerChrysler-Mitsubishi alliance, PS41L was abandoned in 2004 and the likelihood of PS41 making it into production looked even more doubtful. Company research conducted in mid-2004 revealed that 84 percent of Australians believed that Mitsubishi would cease production in Australia. To reinstate consumer confidence in the brand, before the launch of the 380, a series of television commercials began airing in December 2004. Centralised around Mitsubishi Australia's then CEO Tom Phillips, the advertisements promoted the introduction of an industry-first five-year warranty. Mitsubishi reworked a slogan from former Chrysler chairman Lee Iacocca, concluding their commercials with the tagline.

In total, A0 million was spent on developing the 380, including 0 million on upgrading the Adelaide production facility to manufacture the vehicle.

The name 380 was chosen as a fresh start to Mitsubishi's sale of its sole Australian-made vehicle, given that the Magna name was now synonymous of slow-selling vehicle that was long overdue for a replacement. Indeed, among the seven names short-listed from a total of 220, Magna was not one of them. According to then CEO, Tom Phillips, the chosen name polled the best and, at the official launch, he stated "'380' conjured up images of high technology, European standards, sophistication and performance with consumers. All of those attributes correlate directly with the positioning of our new car, and when added to the build quality that we are renowned for and a large 3.8-litre engine, '380' was a natural choice for the name of the car".

From the very beginning of the project, Mitsubishi had always intended that the PS41 would be set apart from the North American Galant in terms of exterior styling. The problem was that PS41 had to share the same basic foundation and the side profile was to remain for the most part unchanged. A revamp of the Clovelly Park facility allowed for the use of more robust bodies. The consequence of this is the tooling required to produce the panels. This gave Mitsubishi the opportunity to make several low key variances to the design. These came in the form of larger front guards, a revised bonnet, new headlamps as well as grilles and bumpers.

The front-end of the PS41 was originally penned by Mitsubishi's design chief, Olivier Boulay. Boulay was also responsible for the 2003 Magna/Verada facelift, but this update fared poorly with buyers. When DaimlerChrysler pulled out of their alliance with Mitsubishi in 2004, it put an end to Boulay-designed Mitsubishis. This allowed for one final chance to progress the exterior design. However, with little more than a year until production, the redesign was shared between Mitsubishi Australia and its parent in Japan. The basic design that was reserved for the base and mid-luxury models was devised by the Japanese studio, whereas the sports oriented design that was conceived locally was reserved for the sports and upper-luxury models within the 380 range.

The expansion tank in a Mitsubishi 380, like in many automotive cooling systems, serves a crucial role in managing coolant flow and pressure. Here’s an explanation of its function, the potential faults, and how repairing or replacing it resolves these issues.

### Theory of Expansion Tank Function

1. **Purpose**: The expansion tank allows for the thermal expansion of coolant as it heats up during engine operation. Coolant expands and contracts with temperature changes, and the expansion tank accommodates this variation, preventing excess pressure in the cooling system.

2. **Pressure Regulation**: The expansion tank is typically part of a closed system that includes a radiator cap. As coolant heats up and expands, excess pressure is released into the tank. When the engine cools down, the coolant contracts, creating a vacuum that draws coolant back into the system from the tank.

3. **Air Separation**: The tank also helps separate air from the coolant, preventing air pockets that can lead to overheating and inefficient cooling.

### Potential Faults

1. **Cracks or Leaks**: Over time, the expansion tank can develop cracks or leaks due to heat and pressure cycles, causing coolant loss and potentially leading to overheating.

2. **Clogged Overflow Tube**: If the overflow tube is blocked, it can prevent proper coolant flow back into the system, leading to pressure buildup or loss of coolant.

3. **Faulty Cap**: A malfunctioning radiator cap can fail to maintain the correct pressure, leading to either excessive pressure (which can damage hoses and the radiator) or insufficient pressure (which can lead to boiling coolant).

### Repair Process

1. **Diagnosis**: Identify the issue through visual inspection for cracks, leaks, or damage. Check the radiator cap for proper function and any signs of wear.

2. **Replacement/Repair**:
- **Replacing the Tank**: If the tank is cracked or leaking, replacing it with a new unit restores the integrity of the system. A new tank ensures that it can properly accommodate thermal expansion and maintain pressure.
- **Clearing Obstructions**: If the overflow tube is clogged, clearing it allows for proper coolant flow, preventing pressure issues and ensuring the system functions correctly.
- **Replacing the Cap**: Installing a new radiator cap ensures that the system can maintain proper pressure, which is critical for the boiling point of the coolant and overall cooling efficiency.

### How the Repair Fixes the Fault

- **Restoration of Pressure Balance**: By replacing or repairing the expansion tank, you restore the ability of the cooling system to manage pressure changes effectively. This prevents overheating and potential engine damage.

- **Prevention of Coolant Loss**: A sealed and intact expansion tank prevents coolant from escaping, ensuring that the engine remains at optimal operating temperatures.

- **Efficient Coolant Flow**: Repairing clogged overflow tubes or replacing a faulty cap helps maintain the proper flow of coolant, which is essential for efficient engine cooling.

In summary, the expansion tank's repair or replacement directly addresses the issues of coolant loss, pressure management, and efficient system operation, ensuring the engine runs smoothly and prevents overheating.
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### Accelerator Linkage on a Mitsubishi 380: A Beginner Mechanic's Guide

#### Overview
The accelerator linkage is a crucial component in your Mitsubishi 380 that connects the accelerator pedal to the throttle body. It controls how much air and fuel enters the engine, which in turn affects the engine's power output and response to your inputs.

### Components of the Accelerator Linkage
1. **Accelerator Pedal**: The part you press with your foot. It translates your foot pressure into a mechanical movement.
2. **Linkage Rods**: Metal rods that connect the accelerator pedal to the throttle body. They transfer the movement from the pedal to the throttle.
3. **Throttle Body**: Located on the intake manifold, it controls the airflow into the engine. The position of the throttle plate inside it determines how much air enters the engine.
4. **Return Spring**: A spring that pulls the throttle back to the closed position when you release the accelerator pedal.
5. **Bushings and Joints**: These components allow for smooth movement of the linkage and reduce wear over time.

### Theory Behind the Accelerator Linkage
When you press the accelerator pedal, it pulls on the linkage rods, which in turn opens the throttle body. This allows more air (and fuel) into the engine, increasing power. When you release the pedal, the return spring closes the throttle, reducing airflow and power.

### How the System Works
1. **Pressing the Pedal**: Your foot presses down on the accelerator pedal.
2. **Linkage Movement**: This movement pulls on the linkage rods.
3. **Throttle Opening**: The rods pull on the throttle body, opening the throttle plate.
4. **Engine Response**: More air enters the engine, and the engine revs up, providing acceleration.
5. **Releasing the Pedal**: When you take your foot off the pedal, the return spring pulls the throttle plate back to a closed position.

### Common Issues with the Accelerator Linkage
- **Binding or Sticking**: Dust, dirt, or wear can cause the linkage to bind, making it hard to accelerate smoothly.
- **Loose Connections**: If the linkage rods or joints are loose, they can lead to delayed or erratic throttle response.
- **Broken Return Spring**: A broken spring means the throttle won't return to the closed position, leading to uncontrolled acceleration.
- **Worn Bushings**: Worn bushings can create excessive play in the linkage, making it feel unresponsive.

### Repair Steps
1. **Inspection**:
- Check the accelerator pedal for smooth operation.
- Inspect linkage rods for any signs of wear or damage.
- Examine the throttle body for proper function.
- Ensure the return spring is intact and not rusty.

2. **Cleaning**:
- Use a degreaser to clean any dirt around the throttle body and linkage to improve movement.

3. **Adjustment**:
- Ensure all linkage connections are snug but not overly tight.
- Adjust the throttle cable if applicable, ensuring there is no slack.

4. **Replacement**:
- Replace any worn or broken components such as linkage rods, joints, or the return spring.

5. **Testing**:
- After repairs, start the engine and test the throttle response by pressing and releasing the accelerator pedal.

### Conclusion
The accelerator linkage is a simple yet vital system that impacts your vehicle's performance. Regular checks and maintenance can prevent issues such as binding or erratic throttle response, ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience.
rteeqp73

**Camshaft Replacement on Mitsubishi 380 - Step-by-Step Guide**

### Tools Needed

- **Socket Set**:
- **Description**: A range of sockets (metric sizes) and a ratchet.
- **Usage**: For removing bolts on the engine cover and other components. Ensure you have various sizes to fit different bolt heads.

- **Torque Wrench**:
- **Description**: A wrench that measures torque to ensure bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
- **Usage**: Essential for reassembling the camshaft components to prevent over-tightening, which could damage the engine.

- **Pliers**:
- **Description**: Standard pliers and possibly needle-nose pliers.
- **Usage**: For gripping small components or removing clips and hoses.

- **Screwdrivers**:
- **Description**: Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers.
- **Usage**: For removing screws and clips that hold various engine covers and components in place.

- **Timing Tools (if necessary)**:
- **Description**: Alignment tools specific for the Mitsubishi 380 timing system.
- **Usage**: Used to ensure the camshaft and crankshaft are aligned properly during reassembly. Required if the timing belt is disturbed.

- **Oil Filter Wrench**:
- **Description**: A special wrench designed to grip and turn the oil filter.
- **Usage**: Needed if the oil filter needs to be removed to access the camshaft area.

- **Gasket Scraper**:
- **Description**: A flat tool used to scrape away old gaskets.
- **Usage**: To ensure a clean surface when installing new gaskets, preventing leaks.

- **Engine Oil**:
- **Description**: Engine oil suitable for your Mitsubishi 380.
- **Usage**: To lubricate the new camshaft and its components during installation.

### Steps to Replace Camshaft

- **Prepare the Workspace**:
- Ensure the engine is cool and the vehicle is on a flat surface. Gather all tools and parts.

- **Disconnect the Battery**:
- Use a socket to remove the negative terminal. This ensures safety while working on electrical components.

- **Remove Engine Covers**:
- Use sockets and screwdrivers to remove the plastic or metal engine covers. Keep screws organized.

- **Drain Engine Oil** (if necessary):
- Use an oil filter wrench to remove the oil filter. Drain the oil into a pan to prevent spillage.

- **Remove Timing Belt**:
- Use appropriate timing tools to ensure the camshaft and crankshaft are aligned. Take note of the tensioner and idler pulleys.

- **Remove Camshaft**:
- Unbolt the camshaft caps using a socket. Carefully lift the camshaft out of its housing.

- **Inspect and Replace Parts**:
- Check the camshaft for wear or damage. If it's damaged, replace it with a new or refurbished camshaft.
- **Possible Replacement Parts**: Camshaft seals and gaskets. These are often worn and should be replaced to prevent oil leaks.

- **Install New Camshaft**:
- Lubricate the new camshaft with engine oil. Insert it carefully into the engine, ensuring it is seated properly.

- **Reassemble Timing Components**:
- Reinstall the timing belt, ensuring proper tension. Use timing tools to verify alignment.

- **Replace Engine Covers**:
- Reattach covers using the appropriate screws and sockets. Ensure everything is secure.

- **Reconnect Battery**:
- Reattach the negative terminal of the battery.

- **Refill Engine Oil**:
- Replace the oil filter and refill the engine with fresh oil.

- **Start the Engine**:
- Turn the key to start the engine. Listen for any unusual noises and check for leaks.

### Additional Considerations

- **Replacement Parts**: Ensure replacement parts are OEM or high-quality aftermarket to maintain engine integrity.
- **Consult Manual**: Always refer to the specific service manual for your Mitsubishi 380 for torque specifications and detailed diagrams.
- **Professional Help**: If unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic to avoid potential damage to the engine.
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