The Chrysler EGZ is a 3,801 cc, 60° V6 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, single overhead camshafts (SOHC), and 12 valves. This workhorse engine delivered 150 kW (203 PS) and 319 Nm of torque, prioritizing low‑end torque and durability for minivans and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Voyager minivans, the EGZ was engineered for smooth, quiet operation and dependable towing capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi‑port fuel injection and an electronic throttle body, meeting US Tier 1 and Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented engineering update addressed intake manifold gasket leaks, particularly on units produced before 2001. This issue, referenced in Chrysler Technical Service Bulletin 09‑01‑00, was linked to material degradation under thermal cycling. The fix involved a revised gasket material and installation procedure introduced during the 2001 model year.
Chrysler
Production years 1998–2004 meet US Tier 1 and Euro 3 emissions standards for applicable markets (EPA Certification #AID1998EGZ).
The Chrysler EGZ is a 3,801 cc 60° V6 petrol engine engineered for minivans and light trucks (1998-2004). It combines SOHC 12‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑port fuel injection to deliver strong low‑end torque and smooth, quiet operation. Designed to meet US Tier 1 and Euro 3 standards, it prioritized reliability and towing capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,801 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 87.1 mm | |
| Power output | 150 kW (203 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 319 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | US Tier 1 / Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (requires no scheduled replacement) | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL, SAE 5W‑30 or 10W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 186 kg |
The SOHC design offers inherent durability and a maintenance-free timing chain, making it ideal for high-mileage use. The engine's strong low-end torque is perfect for towing but necessitates using the specified API SJ/SL oil to protect against sludge, a known issue in these engines. The revised intake manifold gasket (post-2001) is a critical upgrade for early models to prevent coolant leaks into the oil or onto the ground per Chrysler TSB 09-01-00. Regular coolant changes are essential to prevent corrosion in the aluminum heads.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL specification oil (Chrysler Service Manual 09-13-16). Newer API ratings are generally backward compatible.
Emissions: US Tier 1 / Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998-2004 EGZ engines (EPA Certification #AID1998EGZ).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards (Chrysler Engineering Spec. #ENG-3800-HP).
Chrysler Technical Service Bulletins: TSB 09-01-00
Chrysler Group Service Manual (Section 09-13-16)
Chrysler Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. P04567891AB
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database: #AID1998EGZ
The Chrysler EGZ was used across Chrysler's NS platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations but from 2001 the revised intake manifold gasket became standard, creating a parts distinction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a machined pad on the front of the left cylinder head, near the alternator (Chrysler Service Manual 09-13-16). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'G' for the EGZ engine. Visually, it can be identified by its 60° V6 configuration with a single serpentine belt driving all accessories and the "3.8L" casting mark on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the earlier EGH engine: The EGZ has a different ECU calibration and revised cylinder heads for improved emissions. Service parts like the intake manifold gasket are specific to pre-2001 and post-2001 models (Chrysler TSB 09-01-00).
The EGZ's primary reliability risk is oil sludge buildup if service intervals are neglected, with potential for catastrophic engine bearing failure. Chrysler internal service data indicates a strong correlation between infrequent oil changes and engine seizures. Intake manifold gasket leaks on early builds are a secondary, widespread concern documented in TSB 09-01-00. Neglecting basic maintenance makes adherence to the factory schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Chrysler technical bulletins (1998-2004) and NHTSA complaint data (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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