Chrysler 300M and LHS Body Systems

Based on information provided by Chrysler Corporation. Edited for readability.

Click here for a summary of changes from the last generation

Click here for a review of the 2000 and 2001 Chrysler 300M.

Chrysler 300M production "Mr. Source" notes the 300M changes for 2003: "No more chrome exhaust tips. The chrome rims are the same used on the 02 Concorde Limited ( the Concorde and300M now share this rim) .Digital radio. 6 disc cd changer replaces the 4 disc unit. there are more but they are things like wire connections changed etc. Things you will never notice."

Changes from the prior generation

Torsional stiffness is 37% greater and bending stiffness 46% greater than the prior bodies, which were best in class when introduced. Structural stiffness provides a solid feeling and helps make handling precise by allowing the suspension to respond to cornering loads without deflecting the body.

The new body structures also attenuate noise through localized stiffening. These are the first body structures developed by Chrysler using both objective testing and computer analysis. The analysis and optimization process tuned the stiffness of structural paths from external noise sources, such as the engine and suspension system, to the passenger compartment, preventing the noise from being audible. Structural refinement is especially important because a large portion of structureborne noise occurs at frequencies below 400 Hertz (cycles per second), which is difficult to block.

The following features contribute to structural stiffness:

At the forward front suspension cradle attachments and at all four rear suspension cross member attachments, the body structure includes doubleshear mounts. Mounting bolts for these components attach to body structural beams through surface mounting holes and sleeves welded inside the beams. The sleeves stiffen the beams at the attachment point, suppressing inputs to the passenger compartment
A tubular cross beam bolted to the cowl sides beneath the instrument panel increases body torsional rigidity and enhances steering column stiffness. The beam is straight to provide maximum contribution to stiffness with a minimum of added weight. This beam also enhances instrument panel stability
A boltin structural beam connecting the tops of the front suspension strut towers and stiffening of the tower structures enhances torsional stiffness of the body structure
To increase torsional stiffness at the rear of the structure, a transverse beam is welded to the top of the rear strut towers. This compact beam fits neatly under the shelf panel, leaving a large passthough area for use with folding rear seats. These beams also contribute to noise attenuation and reduce the potential for BSRs (buzzes, squeaks and rattles)
High overall bending stiffness also reduces the potential for BSRs from secondary components such as the instrument panel and steering column, because the structure does not transmit their natural frequencies
Structural sill construction, having no styled surface, contributes to a stiffer structure by allowing more overlap between center pillar and sill than is possible when the sill structure is also the styled surface
Laserwelded, front longitudinal rails with differential thickness sections provide needed stiffness more efficiently than singlethickness parts with added reinforcements
Stiffer suspension attachment points
Stiffer front strut towers include a cap reinforcement
Threepiece rear strut tower and wheelhouse assemblies reduce deflection; lowcontour areas include stamped beads to increase local stiffness
An extensive system of beads stamped into all lowcontour floor pan areas increases local stiffness

Body Panel Accuracy

Chrysler LHS and 300M have a "two millimeter" body, meaning that all measured characteristics are maintained within 2 mm of the designed position.

Shell Construction

Onepiece bodyside aperture panels form the door openings, providing excellent dimensional control and high quality fit and finish. Controlling door opening dimensions also helps ensure good door sealing. Furthermore onepiece bodyside aperture construction enhances body stiffness by reducing the number of parts and welding joints required. The number of major stampings in the body side is reduced from 15 to 10.

Throughout the body, part consolidation has reduced the number of stampings. A typical example is the quarter inner panel construction where one stamping replaces three on the prior body. In another area, the center pillar overlaps the sill, eliminating three additional stampings previously used. Dimensional accuracy is enhanced by reducing the number of pieces because additive tolerances associated with multiple parts and their respective welding operations do not exist.

Weight Reduction

Chrysler LHS and 300M use lightweight materials and an optimized structure to reduce weight. Extensive use of highstrength steel for the front and rear longitudinal rails, center pillars and other areas affected by impact requirements reduced body shell weight by an estimated 40 pounds (18 kg).

Hood

An aluminum hood on LHS reduces weight by 20 pounds (9 kg) compared to an equivalent part in steel. This feature was recently introduced on Concorde as Chrysler's first highvolume aluminum exterior body panel. The 300M steel hood was also lightened by optimizing the inner panel structure.

All hoods have singlepivot rear hinges, which are adjustable for accurate hood fit and gas prop counterbalance supports. On LHS, the gas prop pivot points on the hood are closer to the front to reduce deflection in the more flexible aluminum material.

Latches are placed at the leading edges of the hoods to permit the hoods to fit closely around the head lamps without the possibility of contact if the hood is slammed shut. The secondary release mechanism is readily accessible and has a yellow handle for easy identification.

Trunk Lid And Mechanism

New four bar trunk lid hinges with gas prop counterbalancing increase usable trunk volume and improve trunk lid tobody fit. Computer designed hinge and prop geometry makes opening the lid easy. Lifting the lid a nominal amount brings the counterbalance forces into effect. Reaching the full open position from there requires little or no effort. The hinges and props mount completely outside the trunk opening to avoid intruding on luggage capacity when closed a major improvement over prior models. The four bar linkage two pivoting links on each side of the trunk opening connecting the lid to the body is more compact than the former goose neck hinges, while providing ample room for loading. This hinge system is also strong and stable, providing lonterm alignment accuracy and durability.

The trunk is sealed by a full perimeter tubular weatherstrip attached to a raised flange surrounding the opening. The raised flange prevents water from running into the opening when the lid is open.

FullCoverage Wheelhouse Liners

Full coverage, molded plastic front and rear wheelhouse liners protect the body structure from potentially corrosive road splash and prevent noise due to stone impingement on the body shell.

Exterior Ornamentation

Highimpact, molded plastic sill cladding, which is painted body color, resists chipping and does not rust if chipped.

One piece, diecast zinc side window opening moldings have better dimensional control than multipiece stampings for outstanding fit and finish. One piece construction provides a smooth appearance free of joint lines, and ensures consistent gloss and color. Moldings are flush with the outer surfaces of the doors and form the outer half of the glass channel, allowing the glass to more closely approach the surrounding sheet metal for a smooth, aerodynamic appearance and reduced wind noise. Using diecast zinc, which is stronger than aluminum, provides the shallowest possible moldings and a highquality surface finish. The moldings have a black, powdercoat paint finish. To prevent wind and other noises, a polyethylene foam backing is placed between the moldings and the door outer panels. "Flags" incorporated into each rear door molding aft of the window provide a smoothly curved continuation of the window opening.

Bodyside moldings provide effective protection against parking lot damage. New injection molded construction provides preformed ends for a neat appearance. Inert gas injection in the molding process provides a uniform outer surface and thinwall construction that reduces weight compared to solidly molded parts.

Glass

Solar Control Glass in all windows reduces the transmission of infrared and ultraviolet energy to minimize interior heating and damage to organic materials from solar radiation.

A rear window molding injectionmolded onto the glass is seamfree to provide a close fit to the body opening and a neat appearance. The molding includes mounting clips and positioning spacers to ensure easier assembly and accurate alignment of the window on the body.

Bumpers, Fascias And Grilles

Front and rear bumper and fascia systems fit close to adjacent body panels while providing impact protection for safetyrelated equipment at speeds up to 2.5 mph (4 km/hr). The bumper systems also meet the Canadian regulation for protection up to 5 mph (8 km/hr). Fascias are molded of either TPO (thermoplastic olefin) or RRIM (reactioninjection molded urethane). Both materials are reformulated to increase abrasion resistance relative to their predecessors.

Beams, shorter than in past practices, terminate in lightweight, highimpact molded plastic inserts. These inserts also contribute to highspeed barrier impact energy management by extending the load path from the longitudinal rails of the body structure to the front of the bumper face bar. A patent is pending on this aspect of the bumper system.

Highimpact plastic grilles resist damage in low speed impacts. Lightweight fascia modules are constructed of RRIM.

Exterior Lighting

Head Lamps

New halogenbulb, quad head lamps provide a broader and longer beam pattern on the road than their predecessors. In highbeam mode, all four units are lit to maximize light output. The new highbeam units produce double the light output of their predecessors and reach 65% farther down the road. Low beams produce 50% more light. Each produces a brightly illuminated field of view with an evenly blended light pattern. On all car lines, light is focused solely by computerdesigned reflectors. Using the same bulbs as their predecessors, these reflectors are twice as efficient at projecting light down the road. Aiming is done by moving the reflector within the lamp assembly. Each lamp includes a bubble level and readily accessible adjustment screws for reaiming the head lamps, if necessary.

300M models sold in Europe use projector lowbeam bulbs that include lens masks to limit upward light distribution and unique halogen highbeam bulbs.

Fog Lamps

New, more powerful fog lamps are integrated with the front fascias on Chrysler LHS and 300M. To increase their effectiveness as fog lamps, new switch logic allows them to operate with parking lamps, but without head lamps. They also continue to operate as a supplement to the head lamps if desired, but turn off automatically when highbeam head lamps are selected (as in the past). Rear fog lamps in the 300M are standard in Europe.

Head Lamp Washers

In Europe, 300M includes head lamp washers. Each washer unit has two discrete nozzles to direct fluid onto the head lamp lens. The units are spring loaded and automatically retract after use.

Door Systems

Fullstamped door construction inner and outer panels both encompassing the windows is simpler and dimensionally more accurate than the prior construction method, improving door fit. Reducing the number of parts allows a corresponding reduction in welding operations and the potential for variations resulting from each operation. Door inner panels are stamped from dualthickness, laserwelded sheet metal to increase accuracy of the doors. Laserwelded inner panels eliminate the need for a separate weldedin reinforcement, the single largest cause of variation in door assembly. Instead of adding a reinforcement, the forward portion of the panel, to which the hinges are bolted, is nearly three times as thick as the remainder of the panel. The added thickness provides hinge mounting stability and contributes to a solid door closing sound. Furthermore, this inner panel construction is also lighter than a singlethickness panel with a welded reinforcement. To form the inner panel, sheets of dissimilar thickness steel are butted together and weld by a laser beam. The resulting weld joint is smooth and unobtrusive. Locating points in the inner panel stamping presses ensure that the weld seam is accurately aligned for proper sealing of the door in the door opening. Onepiece aperture panels in the body sides facing the doors contribute to consistency of door fit.

Door Hinges and Latches

Door hinge design and mounting provide more accurate door placement than the prior configuration. Hinge inner and outer halves are permanently assembled, reducing clearance required by the prior replaceable pivot pin system. Hinge attachment to the doors and pillars is controlled by alignment fixtures, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and its potential errors.

New door latches provide smoother and quieter operation. The new design provides 100% isolation against metal to metal contact between the latch pawl and the striker for quietness. New power lock motors are now virtually inaudible.

New door ajar switches are integral with the door latch assemblies and operate both courtesy lamps and the door ajar indicator in the instrument cluster. This construction is more reliable and durable than previous standalone switches less susceptible to door adjustments, freezing, contamination and corrosion.

Weather Stripping

A bodymounted tubular weatherstrip encircles each door opening to provide primary sealing against wind noise and water leaks. A second bodymounted weatherstrip running up the windshield pillar and across the tops of the doors incorporates a trough to channel water away from the door opening. This sealing system prevents rain water from running into the passenger compartment when the doors are opened. A tubulartype weatherstrip attached to the leading edge of each rear door above the belt line prevents wind noise and acts as a sight shield. A tubular weatherstrip attached to the back of each door between the sill and the belt line also handles wind noise. Liptype weatherstrips attached to the sill cladding seal the gap between doors and sills to keep road splash and dust out of the door openings and block wind and road noise more effectively than doormounted weatherstrips. These weather strips snap into the sill cladding and also cover the cladding attachments.

Door Glass

Front door glass is cylindrical for fit and finish accuracy and easy window operation. Rear door glass is barrel shaped to conform to the compound curvature of the doors. As in the past, the rear windows lower only partially, to permit wider door openings.

Rearview Mirrors

Dual, heated power outside mirrors with position memory are standard in the U.S. and Europe. The mirrors fold in (except US 300M). An automatic dimming daynight mirror inside mirror is standard. It has true grayscale light absorption, becoming progressively darker as the intensity of incoming light increases and returning automatically to normal levels when intensity decreases.

Power Moonroof

An optional ventandslide power moonroof uses Solar Cool Gray® reflective glass to block out ultraviolet light and up to 81% of visible light, minimizing interior heating and damage to organic materials from solar radiation. The unit is thin at least 0.25 in. (6 mm) thinner than competitive units to minimize passenger compartment intrusion. An opening 33.2 in. (844 mm) wide provides the driver and front passenger with clear views. An "express" open feature in the open mode causes the panel to move immediately to the fullopen position when the OPEN rocker switch is pressed. Pressing the switch again before the panel reaches the fullopen position stops movement. An electronic control system uses Halleffect sensors rather than mechanical switches at the limits of panel movement.

The interior roof panel and headliner conform to the moonroof opening for a finished appearance without an addon welt or molding. A laminated plastic sunshade is covered with foambacked headliner fabric. It opens manually using a recessed handle molded into the surface or slides back automatically when the moonroof opens.

To minimize wind noise and buffeting, a curved air deflector pops up at the front of the roof opening and the panel stops short of the fullopen position. The height of the air deflector and the openposition stopping point were optimized in proving grounds tests. Positive sealing is ensured by a cam system that moves the panel into the closed position from the top down. A compact electric motor at the rear of the structure moves the panel with cables that are enclosed for smooth and quiet operation. Tempered glass protects the occupants from injury in the event of breakage. When broken, it crumbles into small pieces without sharp edges. Urethane encapsulation of the glass provides a neat installation.

Windshield Wiper & Washer System

Computer modeling of the wiper linkage determined appropriate wiper pivot locations and helped determine the windshield configuration required to maintain appropriate blade pressure. Aerodynamic design of the hood and cowl screen smoothes air flow, helping to hold the wiper blades on the glass at the vehicles' highest attainable speeds without air foils. This air flow pattern also causes water pushed down by the wipers to flow to the sides rather than running back up the glass. Aerodynamic design of the windshield pillar shape and molding guides water swept aside by the wipers upward, keeping the lower portions of the side windows clear. Coldweather wiper performance is enhanced by a new defroster system that effectively clears frost from the glass and melts snow pushed down the base of the windshield by the wipers. New wiper control logic returns the blades to their parked position when the ignition is turned off, if the wipers were operating at that time. The intermittent wipe delay time is doubled when the car is moving less than 10 mph (16 km/hr). New wiper blades are three times as strong as current blades. Bolton wiper arms are simpler to manufacture and more robust than the "latchlock" arms used previously.

A 30 psi (207 kPa) high output pump supplies two hoodmounted washer nozzle assemblies. Each nozzle assembly has three jets providing a triangular spray pattern that effectively covers the wiped area of the windshield. The spray nozzle design, pattern and pump pressure requirement were developed through extensive aerodynamic testing. A new washer fluid level sensor in the 110ounce (3.25liter) reservoir provides a more accurate indication of low fluid.

Seats

LHS

A driver's power seat memory feature, part of the Personalized Memory System, is available on LHS. It allows two drivers to preselect the combination of cushion height and angle, back angle and track position they prefer using the remote keyless entry (RKE) key fob transmitter or memory switches housed in a pod on the front outboard corner of the seat cushion side shield.

The memory seat also includes a GlideToExit feature offered here for the first time on a Chrysler vehicle. GlideToExit makes driver entry and exit easier by sliding the seat rearward up to 2.2 inches (55 mm) from the preselected position, if track travel will allow it. GlideToExit provides the following actions:

The seat moves rearward when the key is removed from the ignition, or when a memory seat switch or an RKE key fob unlock button is pressed prior to entering the vehicle. The seat returns to the preselected position, when the driver pulls the seat belt out prior to buckling or when the ignition is switched on after entry, whichever comes first.

Heated driver and front passenger seats on LHS have two temperature settings.

Standard fourway adjustable front head restraints add flexibility and comfort. In addition to vertical adjustment, each head restraint provides 1.6 inches (40 mm) of fore and aft adjustment by pivoting about a transverse, horizontal axis.

A rear seat pass through feature combines an opening to the trunk with a folding center armrest. The 8.6 x 8.0inch (220 x 205 mm) opening comfortably allows two pairs of skis or other long objects to extend from the trunk into the passenger compartment. The pass through, which is concealed when the armrest is upright, has a separate hinged cover with a springloaded latch. Pressing the recessed latch lever at the top and pulling forward opens the cover down on the armrest. The back of the cover is trimmed with needled fiber carpeting that matches the trunk trim. An optional bag to protect the car's interior, which is available from a dealer, clamps to a flange on the opening.

The armrest also includes a pull strap and a covered storage compartment with a latching lid. Each cavity of the dual cup holder at the front of the armrest will hold a coffee mug with handle or a soft drink cup up to 48 ounces (1.4liters).

The rear seat also includes head rests integral with the back at the outboard seating positions.

300M

300M has the same front seat power, memory, heat and head restraint features as LHS.

A folding 60/40 splitback seat with center armrest gives storage versatility. The armrest is integral with the 60% portion of the seat. A pull strap facilitates opening the armrest separately. The rear panel of the seat back covers the area behind the armrest when the armrest is folded. The opening to the trunk is wider and taller than that provided by competitive cars because the supporting structure nestles beneath the shelf panel. When both sections are folded, the opening is over 15 x 47 inches (400 x 1200 mm). A positive latch recessed in each back section holds it in the upright position. High on each back, a strap to operate the latch extends forward through the gap between the back and the fixed bolster between back and body structure. The latches can only be operated from the inside of the car and the straps can be tucked into the gap for improved appearance and security. A onepiece bolster at the top and sides of the seat conceals structural support for the folding sections.

New to Chrysler are vertically adjustable head restraints, which provide added comfort for outboard rear passengers. Total adjustment is 1.5 inches (60 mm) with a detent at the midpoint. Adjustment detents are springloaded.

Shared Seating Features

Seats are designed first to fit driving needs. Firm, fullfoam seat pads provide longterm comfort. A layer of supersoft foam placed over the pads enhances comfort and durability. Cover seams are placed in low pressure areas to enhance comfort.

New cushion wings are lower in front, allowing occupants to sit comfortably in a splayed position. Backs are taller and wider for added shoulder support. They also offer deeper wings for lateral support. Upper backs have added contour for lateral shoulder support. Frames and pads are developed simultaneously to assure proper support. Stamped aluminum front seat pans reduce weight while providing the same aid in controlling occupant movement in a frontal impact as their steel predecessors. Deep rear seat cushions provide comfortable support for both adults and children.

Front seat backs are 1 in. (25 mm) taller than previousgeneration platform vehicles for added comfort and a richer, more substantial appearance
Front head restraints are larger and farther forward for added comfort when used as head rests and for added protection
The highest position of the front head restraints is raised 0.87 in. (22 mm) compared to previous generation platform vehicles for added occupant protection
Front head restraints incorporate a pushbutton latch to secure them at the intended height.
The springloaded push button is incorporated into the bezel at the base of the left post of each twinpost head restraint. For convenience, they may be raised by simply lifting upward. Operation of the pushbutton latch is required only for downward movement. Internal stops on the posts prevent removal of the head restraints
A passenger front seatback map pocket is standard
Power seat systems include sixway cushion adjustment and power recliners operated by an ergonomic power seat switch. Movement of the seat corresponds with movement of the ergonomic switch knobs, which are shaped and positioned like a seat cushion and back. Compared to previousgeneration platform vehicles, vertical adjustment provides 0.15inch (4mm) of additional downward adjustment below the design position to better accommodate large drivers. Total vertical travel at the front and rear of the cushion remains 1.75 inches (44 mm). Longitudinal travel remains 8.7 inches (220 mm)
The driver's seat includes a fourposition, manual lumbar support operated by a lever on the outboard side of the seat back
Front seat recliners provide 50° of angular adjustment

Instrument Clusters

Chrysler LHS and 300M instrument clusters provide the following features:

Four analog gauges speedometer, tachometer, fuel level and engine coolant temperature are controlled by a microprocessor in the cluster that smoothes and damps pointer movement to give informative and aesthetically pleasing readings
A not quite accurate but closer than before fuel gauge matching US customer expectations:
- When the tank is full the gauge always "pegs" on the full mark
- The pointer does not begin to drop immediately after a fillup
- At least half the fuel in the tank will be consumed at the midpoint on the gauge
- The low fuel lamp comes on with less than 2.5 gallons (9.5liters) in the tank. The empty mark is reached with approximately 1.01.5 gallons (3.85.5liters) remaining in the tank
- An arrow in the fuel gauge adjacent to the fuel pump icon points to the left, indicating the filler door location
A push button toggles between the total and trip odometer displays. Pressing and holding the button while in the trip mode resets the trip odometer. When the ignition is turned on, the display will show the function cumulative or trip that was displayed when the ignition was turned off. The display illuminates briefly when any door is opened, aiding service personnel and others wishing to check the odometer reading with the ignition off
All warning and information indicators (a total of 18), many of which include a chime warning, are located in the cluster for easy visibility. Nomenclature and graphics are visible only when illuminated. Allowing the gauge graphics to appear while masking the indicators is achieved through a multilayer screen printing process. Red and amber indicators use LEDs, which are designed to last the life of the vehicle.
White gauge faces contrast with opaque black graphics and pointers. Red graphics are used sparingly for emphasis: maximum engine speed, fuel tank empty and coolant temperature hot. Electroluminescent lighting is uniform, compact and easily colored to match other displays, while requiring very little power. The lighting produces very little heat and lasts the life of the car with no bulbs to replace.

Both Chrysler LHS and 300M feature an electronic analog clock in the instrument panel above the central bank of air outlets.

Instrument Panel

The instrument panel structure is stiffer to control NVH, lighter to aid vehicle fuel economy and less costly to manufacture than its predecessor. It provides the following features:

A composite structure of steel and molded plastic provides strength and impact resistance with light weight. A complex combination of brackets, ribbing and struts supports the panel, which attaches to the cowl sides, the floor pan tunnel and the fence area just below the windshield
An industryfirst softtouch TPU (thermoplastic urethane) outer surface of the upper panel is integrally molded over urethane foam padding and a Noryl® structural retainer
Visible cut lines on the instrument panel surface are minimized through part consolidation to provide a more finished appearance
Outboard air outlets and side window demister grilles are moved from the door trim panels to the instrument panels, improving air flow performance, reducing weight and enhancing customer value by avoiding unnecessary complexity
An invisibleseam passenger air bag door is integral with the instrument panel face as on Concorde, which was the first at Chrysler to use this feature in a "top mount" location. (Chrysler minivan invisibleseam passenger air bag doors are located in the cooler face area of the panel.) This new air bag door provides the following customer benefits:
- Reduced potential for passenger air bag theft
- Reduced potential for tampering with passenger air bag
- Comparable repair cost to an instrument panel having a separate air bag door, because most collisions of sufficient intensity to trigger the air bag usually also cause considerable damage to the panel structure, necessitating replacement
A bin type glove compartment has the same configuration but more room than the previous one.

Center Console

The center console used in both Chrysler LHS and 300M is integrated with the instrument panel. The console provides the following new features:

The foam padded vinyl armrest provides increased comfort. The concave armrest surface provides a wide area that cradles one's elbow and permits both driver and passenger to use the armrest simultaneously
A dualelement cup holder is concealed in the front face of the console. Pressing on the concealing panel releases a latch and the unit swings into place automatically. Deep cup depressions have flexible tabs that adapt to and retain a wider range of commonly used containers. This includes a console cup holder for up to a 20ounce (0.6liter) bottle, a coffee mug with handle, a 24ounce (0.7liter) fastfood drink cup or a large box of french fries
Springloaded hinges on the side of the console lid facilitates access to the storage bin. It makes the lid easy to open and holds the lid open during access.
Tissuepack storage and a pen holder are molded into the underside of the lid
Two cylindrical coin holders are molded into the front face of the storage bin. One cylinder will hold U.S. quarters and nickels, the other nickels and dimes. The side of each cylinder facing the storage bin is cut away, leaving the edges of the coins accessible for easy removal. The bottom of each cylinder slopes toward the cutaway side to make the smaller coins accessible
Slots in the base of the bin store CD boxes and/or cassettes
The console includes lighting for the automatic transmission shift indicator nomenclature.
This indicator provides a reference for gear selection day or night. As in the past, the instrument cluster shows exactly which gear is selected
A multielement sliding cover "fish scales" conceals the slot in which the shifter moves for a neat appearance
An ash receiver/storage tray and power outlet/lighter are concealed, when not in use, by a hinged cover. The outlet is standard and includes a labeled, snapin cover. The ash container has a raised tab to make removal easy. The ash receiver is illuminated when exterior lamps are on through a window in the rear of the container, making nighttime use easier

Steering Column and Shifter

A new, fourspoke steering wheel affords a greater variety of comfortable hand positions than the previous wheel's two thick spokes. Upper spokes are positioned to facilitate visibility of instruments and the multifunction switch. A new tilt steering column provides an additional position. The additional position increases travel by approximately 5 degrees. Lightweight components, in conjunction with rigid mounting to the boltin crosscar beam, provide greater steering column stiffness than that of its predecessor, minimizing steering wheel shake and vibration.

Steering system weight reductions and their related benefits are as follows:

Use of magnesium for the steering column casting saves 2.3 lb. (1 kg). The magnesium casting replaces five parts and provides solid attachments to the body structure for increased column stability and more precise assembly for improved quality
The steering wheel armature is also magnesium, saving 2.4 lb. (1.1 kg). The magnesium armature damps vibration, provides deflection characteristics that contribute to driver impact protection, and is light to enhance steering responsiveness
Aluminum components in the intermediate steering shaft assembly save 0.8 lb. (0.4 kg). Intermediate shaft aluminum components also provide improved performance

The shifter features an ergonomic "cobrahead" knob with frontmounted gaterelease button, used previously only with AutoStick®. The reference shift indicator in the console illuminates when exterior lamps are on.

Speed Control System

New momentarycontact pushbutton speed control (cruise control) switches return to their static position when released. Switches have a positive snap action with solid tactile feedback. A new switch arrangement uses the corporateconsensus architecture:

ON/OFF and SET buttons on the left initiate and terminate action
ACCEL/RESUME, CANCEL and COAST push buttons on the right permit onehand control of the system while the vehicle is in motion

A "tapdown" feature operated by the COAST button reduces the set speed 2 mph (3 km/hr) each time the button is pressed momentarily. The CANCEL button, which is between the rockers, disengages the speed control, but retains the previous set speed in memory where it can be reestablished by pressing RESUME. Pressing CANCEL, which is new to these car lines, has the same effect as tapping the brake pedal. A green CRUISE indicator in the instrument cluster illuminates when the system is on.

Horn Switch

The horn switch is concealed beneath the upper portion of the flexible steering wheel trim pad, the place customers say is the most natural for them to use. The switch consists of two flexible, closely spaced membrane contacts attached to the underside of the trim cover. It is actuated by pressing on the large 2.1 x 5.7inch (53 x 145mm) slightly raised area of the cover to bring the contacts together.

Instrument PanelMounted Controls

Control logic of the new, illuminated, lowcurrent, resistivemultiplexed head lamp switch allows the fog lamps to operate with either parking lamps or low beam head lamps. LHS is also equipped with automatic head lamps. A new feature turns the lights on when windshield wipers are used .

A new, lowcurrent, resistivemultiplexed dimmer switch retains the thumbwheel method of operation and location on the instrument panel to the right of the head lamp switch. Switch graphics are lighted when exterior lamps are on. This switch provides the following functions:

Courtesy lamp operation by rotating the thumb wheel upward to the full travel position (Second detent past the fulldim position)
Variable instrument panel, cluster display and console shift indicator brightness when exterior lamps are on at night
Daytime instrument cluster display brightness when exterior lamps are turned on during daylight
(First detent past the fulldim position)

An allnew trunk lid release push button mounts on the instrument panel to the left of the steering column where it is clearly visible and easy to reach. New control logic in the BCM disables the release mechanism when the transmission is not in 'Park' or, on cars with the Vehicle Theft Alarm, when the alarm is armed.

A manual emergency brake release handle replaces the previous pedaloperated mechanism.

HVAC System

The new Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) system shows the selected temperature at all times. Under automatic control, the BCM (body control module) selects the appropriate mode (air flow path), adjusts fan speed, modulates outlet air temperature and controls air conditioning compressor operation. At any setting, the system gives occupants the same perceived comfort level regardless of outside conditions by altering the mode, fan speed and outlet air temperature. A small, motordriven fan draws air to the sensor from the passenger compartment through a grille in the face of the control. As in the past, the system also uses a solar sensor on top of the instrument panel, an outside temperature sensor behind the front bumper and the engine coolant temperature sensor to determine appropriate air outlet temperature, fan speed and mode door positions. In automatic mode, the air conditioning compressor runs whenever outside air temperature is above about 32°F (0°C) to dehumidify the air for added comfort. This also greatly reduces condensation on the inside of the windshield and side windows. The solar sensor measures light intensity as a guide to automatic mode and air outlet temperature control. Five basic modes are provided as in the past: panel, bilevel, floor, mix and defrost, but 255 combinations are possible to enhance comfort. In cold weather, the BCM inhibits blower operation until a comfortable air outlet temperature can be provided and selects mix mode operation during warmup.

A patented algorithm in the ATC control system makes minor adjustments in temperature primarily by changing outlet air temperature, and secondarily by increasing air flow the way customers typically adjust a manual system. This feature allows the system to maintain desired comfort with less blower noise than the former algorithm, which always increased blower speed.

Another algorithm, used by the ATC system, maintains constant air flow regardless of vehicle speed. At highway speeds, air flow through the car is provided primarily by outside air pressure allowing a very low blower speed. On surface roads and in city traffic, the blower speed must increase to maintain the desired comfort level. Therefore, the new algorithm checks vehicle speed and adjusts Body Systems fan speed accordingly. This Chryslerpatented feature also uses the positions of doors in the HVAC unit as inputs to determine the blower speed necessary to maintain proper flow.

A new control panel provides for either automatic or manual operation. It makes automatic operation easier. Semiautomatic operation, which customers found difficult to understand, is eliminated.

The new control panel uses rocker switches for temperature selection and all function selections except fan speed control, which remains a rotary knob. Pressing AUTO puts the system into fully automatic operation. Pressing the opposite end of the AUTO rocker turns the system off completely. When the system is off, outside air does not enter the passenger compartment.

Pressing any mode button, the air conditioning compressor button, or the recirculation button places the system under manual control. In manual control, the customer selects the comfort temperature, fan speed, mode and chooses between air conditioning on or off using the control panel's rocker switches and the rotary fan speed knob. It operates in floor, bilevel and panel modes only. Even under manual control, the system works to maintain comfort and safety in the following ways:

Interior temperature biasing to maintain interior comfort under varying outside conditions continues as with automatic control
Selecting recirculated air while in the panel mode automatically turns on the air conditioning compressor to help keep the windshield and side window from fogging and illuminates the "snowflake" icon in the display if outside temperature is above 50°F (10°C). Pressing the A/C button turns off the compressor again, if desired
The air conditioning compressor runs automatically in mix and defrost modes to aid in defrosting the windshield and side windows when the outside temperature is above about 32°F (0°C)

Buttons are illuminated through the graphics for nighttime operation. Fan graphics on the face of the control panel and the pointer on the fan speed knob are also illuminated. Graphics appear white in daylight but illumination is bluegreen.

The display continuously indicates whether the system is under AUTO (automatic) or MANUAL control
Present mode (air flow path) selection is indicated at all times using five basic industrystandard ISO icons
A car silhouette icon appears when air is being recirculated
A "snowflake" icon appears when air conditioning is selected
Attempting to select a temperature setting above or below the available operating range produces a display indication of HI or LO, rather than a reading in degrees. This indicates that the system is providing the hottest or coldest possible comfort setting

With ATC, a new blower control module has numerous linear speed increments and a relatively small step to maximum speed.

As in the past, ATC system diagnostic trouble codes can be viewed in the ATC display, allowing technicians to identify ATC problems without special scanning tools. Where malfunctions correspond with those of the manual HVAC system, the same diagnostic test codes are used.

The electronic controls automatically select recirculated air flow when outside temperatures are extremely high. For temperatures in the 95120°F (3549°C) range, the control may also select recirculated air flow. Selection of automatic recirculation is based on refrigeration system internal pressure communicated to the control via the J1850 data bus. When selected, it enhances occupant comfort and reduces compressor and system loads. This feature is being patented.

A new defroster duct system provides faster, more uniform defrosting of the windshield.

Ducts in the center console deliver more air flow to rear seat passengers for added comfort.

A new duct system sprovide even air flow distribution while avoiding the cost of doormounted outlets and duct work. A new housing for the passenger compartment HVAC components uses computerdesigned air flow passages and is quieter. The blower motor is quieter.

A more powerful rear window defogger clears the glass quickly and uniformly.

Audio Systems

All functions are visible and clearly labeled
Separate knobs provide balance and fade control
Rotary knobs for volume, balance and fade provide precise control. Offon/volume, balance and fade control knobs are recessed in the face of the control panel when not in use. The knobs pop out for adjustment when pressed, and return to their recessed positions using the same action. Rotary balance and fade controls provide more precise control of speaker output than the former joystick. Pressing the offon/volume control also turns the radio on
Ergonomically shaped buttons provide improved separation, actuation and feel. Buttons for all functions are cupped to fit one's fingers
Legibility and lighting of nomenclature and graphics is improved. All controls are lighted through the graphics, and displays are bluegreen vacuum fluorescent panels

Infinity® II System

Standard in Europe
A new 320watt Infinity amplifier has nine output channels one, for each speaker location. Enhanced distortion limiting circuitry prevents overdriving the speakers.
A single 2.5inch (64mm) fullrange, spatial imaging speaker mounts in the center instrument panel
Two 2.5inch (64mm) coaxial speakers mount in the lower front corners of the front windows. These speakers are aimed at the front seat occupants on the opposite side of the car to provide clear sound without excess intensity. Grilles on these speakers include Infinity logos
Two 6.5inch (165mm) round fullrange speakers are located in the front doors. Front door speakers are mounted somewhat higher than those of competitive cars for better sound projection. A raised seal on the face of each of these speakers presses against the reverse side of the door trim panel, enhancing fronttorear separation for better sound quality
Two 6 x 9inch (152 x 229mm) fullrange speakers mount beneath the rear shelf panel
Two 2.5inch (64mm) round speakers are placed in the rear doors. Mounted high in the doors, these speakers enhance high frequency sound for rear seat passengers

A rear windowmounted antenna is standard on Chrysler LHS and 300M.

Interior Trim

A structural membrane adhesive bonded to the inside of the roof panel reduces interior noise by damping panel vibrations. Noise caused by rain and other conditions that could make the panel resonate are substantially less noticeable using this stiffening system than with conventional steel bows and/or splines. The structural membrane stiffens the whole panel to prevent resonance, whereas bows and splines provide only localized stiffening. This system is also lighter and less costly than steel bows. The substrate of the roof system, to which the foambacked headlining fabric and overhead components are attached, is made from sound insulating AcoustiCor®. The AcoustiCor headliners can be recycled again into a new material called EcoCor®.

Roof railmounted assist handles for the rear and right front passengers fit depressions molded into the roof system. The overhead console and other roofmounted components may be removed for service without disturbing the interior roof system.

Softer, more luxurious door trim panels result from the use of thicker foam backing for the vinyl surface in the bolster and armrest areas. The soft areas are also larger than on prior models. New deep, oval pull cups in the armrests provide ample finger clearance for a full grip. The side of each pull cup facing the interior of the vehicle is recessed to provide an even better grip. Opposite the recess, a subtle longitudinal depression in each trim panel surface enhances the grip effect, providing the functional equivalent of a reachthrough handle with reduced cost and complexity.

All front door trim panels include map pockets and formedmetal speaker grilles.

Rectangular depressions molded into the rear door trim panels are designed to accept ash receivers when the Smoker's Package is ordered, but will also hold juice boxes. When equipped with the optional Infinity® II audio system, rear door trim panels include speaker grilles.

A molded onepiece needledfiber trunk liner covers the sides, back and floor, including the tire well. This material also lines the trunk lid. A separate carpeted spare tire cover provides a level storage surface. On LHS, a pulldown strap aids trunk closing.

Chrysler LHS and 300M also include following new or refined interior trim items:

A molded plastic driver's left foot rest attaches to the floor beneath the carpet to enhance comfort and stability
A grommet in the driver's floor mat that fits over a hook snapped into the carpet provides positive positioning and retention of the floor mat
Door weather strips have inboard lips that overlap the interior trim in the openings, providing continuity across the interface for a finished appearance
The carpeted rear shelf panel has speaker openings in its resinated fiber substrate. Sound passes through the needledfiber carpeting

An optional smoker's package consists of a cigar lighter, which is inserted in the standard power outlet, and two covered, removable rear ash receivers. The rear ash receivers are inserted in existing depressions in the door armrests. A front ash receiver is standard.

Cooling Systems

The new integrated cooling module combines the following units:

An allnew radiator
Updated air conditioning condenser with significantly greater heat transfer area to enhance cooling performance
Tandem transmission oil coolers in the radiator and externally mounted increase transmission cooling capacity 7% from prior levels
- A new intank platetype oiltocoolant heat exchanger
- Auxiliary oiltoair heat exchanger
Redesigned dual cooling fans
Industryfirst integrated coolant hot bottle and overflow reservoir

Both fans run simultaneously when needed. They run faster and move more air with less noise than previous platform vehicles. The coolant hot bottle, a feature carried over from prior models, provides a means to remove air from the circulating coolant.

New engine coolant uses 100% postconsumer ethylene glycol with longlife corrosion inhibitors. When diluted with distilled water, it allows a change interval of 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km). This new coolant is not compatible with propylene glycol.

Electrical & Electronic Systems

A standard Personalized Memory System that allows two drivers to preprogram their individual power seat, power mirror and radio push button settings for instantaneous recall is available for the first time on Chrysler LHS and 300M. All seat settings vertical, horizontal, tilt and recline angle are included. The system is operated by individually programmed Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitters and by switches on the driver's seat cushion outboard side shield. It works with the seat, mirror, and radio settings.

The Body Control Module (BCM) has been upgraded to support the J1850 vehicle communications and diagnostics bus. It mounts directly on the junction block located in the lower, left cowl side. It is available in two feature levels base and premium. Only LHS uses the premium controller.

The BCM provides the following new functions:

It controls the exterior lamps (head lamps, fog lamps, parking lamps and tail lamps)
It includes a Battery Saver feature that automatically turns off electrical loads if this is not done by the driver after a reasonable time.
It operates the manual HVAC system.
It actuates and times electric rear window defogger (EBL) operation.
It provides central locking and a choice of unlocking modes. Unlocking the drivers door with the key unlocks that door only. However, if the key is returned to the "neutral" position and again turned to the unlock position, all doors unlock. Unlocking the passenger door with the key immediately unlocks all doors
It operates the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system.
It provides speed proportional steering control (LHS only). The steering control electronics are now integrated with the BCM
It turns on the head lamps automatically when the wipers have been on for at least 10 seconds and the head lamp switch is in the automatic position
If the windshield wipers are on when the ignition is switched off, it keeps the wiper motor running until the blades are in the parked position
It provides trunk release logic that prevents inadvertent opening. The trunk release button on the instrument panel and the trunk button on the RKE will open the trunk only under following "appropriate" conditions:
- When the ignition is off
- When the transmission is in 'Park' with the ignition on
It provides customerprogrammable rolling door locks. On vehicles with power door locks, the automatic feature is enabled when shipped from the factory. The Owner's Manual includes instructions for enabling or disabling the feature by a simple sequence of ignition switch and power lock switch actions

A standard outlet for electricallypowered accessories will also operate a conventional cigar lighter unit (available from a dealer in the Smoker's Package) if desired. The outlet includes a tethered cap labeled with its ampere and voltage rating.

A new industrystandard data communications and diagnostics bus (SAE J1850) replaces the proprietary Chrysler (CCD) bus as the link through which onboard control modules share information with each other and with offboard testers through a diagnostic connector. J1850 provides the following advantages over the CCD communications bus technology:

Uses a singlewire bus rather than a twistedpair of wires
Transmits information between modules at two to three times the data rate
Uses a more rugged transceiver circuit for improved reliability
Provides the capability for immediate acknowledgment that the message was received by the intended receiver
Allows one module to "wakeup" another module over the bus when the engine is not running, if required

The following modules communicate over the J1850 bus:

Instrument cluster
Body Control Module
Power Train Control Module
ABS Control Module
Overhead Travel Information System
Smart Key Immobilizer Module (midyear introduction)
Radio (except base cassetteplayer radio)
Automatic Temperature Control Module
Transaxle Control Module
Air Bag Control Module
Personalized Memory System Module (midyear introduction)

New wiring features are:

Optimized circuit partitioning and harness routing eliminates over 100 circuits and eight splices to lower cost and improve reliability. Using vehicle architecture and feature availability information during design, circuits with balanced loads are devised
Use of the new industrystandard J1850 vehicle communication and diagnostics bus eliminates 17 circuits and eight "twistedpairs" required with the former CCD system
A new junction block eliminates over 35 circuits by providing direct, plugin connections for the BCM, remote keyless entry (RKE) module and daytime running lamp (DRL) module
A snapin panel on the left end of instrument panel provides access to the fuses and relays. Fuses are identified by diagram molded into the back of the snapin panel
A new power distribution center (PDC) provides mounting for microrelays and Ftype cartridge fuses, which take less space than the components they replace, permitting the PDC to house substantially more components in a slightly larger package than in the past. (This is Chrysler's first use of Ftype cartridge fuses.)
Improved electrical grounding increases electrical system reliability. Separate grounding paths are used for lowcurrent circuits that carry electronic signals and highcurrent power circuits. This protects the signal circuits from extraneous signals that could adversely affect their operation
Wire gauge and fuse size are optimized to ensure robust electrical system performance

Wire harness durability and freedom from BSRs is enhanced through improved routing and protection that includes the following features:

Expanded use of weld studs, clips, troughs and foam tape protects wiring and keeps it away from heat and damage
Easily accessible positive and negative terminals for the remotemounted battery facilitate assist starting (jumping). The remote positive terminal mounts behind the right head lamp. The negative terminal mounts on the right strut tower

Wiring connector improvements increase quality and reliability.

Total Vehicle NVH Control

Power Train

Engine sound remains clearly perceptible, especially under hard acceleration, but the sound is smooth and suggests power. Deflection and resonance in structural and dynamic components as the engine runs cause a major portion of objectionable engine noise. To minimize this occurrence, components are stiffened and, in the case of some dynamic components, made lighter to impose less force, thereby reducing noise. Quietness also stems from two other factors: reduction of vibration within the engine and prevention of noise transmission. Vibration is reduced by making structures stiffer and moving parts stiffer and lighter. Noise transmission is avoided by preventing outer surfaces from resonating with noises inside the engine valve train, camshaft drive chains, oil and water pumps, etc.

2.7Liter Engine

The 2.7liter engine provides the following noise preventing features and their associated benefits compared to the former 3.5liter engine:

The forged steel crankshaft, engineered using FEA, has 26% greater torsional stiffness the stiffest crankshaft Chrysler has ever analyzed
The cast aluminum cylinder block provides 28% greater torsional stiffness. An exceptionally stiff block was produced through use of FEA studies that focused on torsional frequency, lateral bending, and torsional bending. The block includes the following features:
- Extensive ribbing
- Sixbolt main bearing caps four vertical, two transverse. For quietness, the natural frequency of the bearing caps exceeds the firing frequency of the engine. Stiff bearing caps also reduce the potential for wear caused by deflection under load
- Structuralbeam windage tray It provides added support to the main bearing caps that helps increase overall stiffness
Rigid accessory drive mounting The air conditioning compressor and alternator mount directly to the block and structural oil pan, rather than on brackets. This prevents these heavy items from vibrating independent of the engine, adding input to the power train mounts. Only the power steering pump, which is the lightest of the accessories, still mounts on a bracket, but it is more compact and stiffer than former brackets. The new mounting arrangement provides the following accessory mounting stiffness improvements relative to the previous 3.5liter engine:
- air conditioning compressor: 68% stiffer
- Alternator mounting: 13% stiffer
- Power steering pump mounting: 5% stiffer
More precise control of reciprocating masses and better balancing of rotating components reduces nominal engine unbalance by 27% from former levels. Pistons 14% lighter than before, relative to their bore size, are a major contribution to the improvement.

The 2.7liter engine includes the following features that contribute to low noise transmission:

Lowrumble intake manifold The new design has three tuned intake runners from each bank of cylinders connected to its plenum chamber in a cluster or focal point. In conventional manifolds, the runners are equally spaced lengthwise along the plenum. The effect of the lowrumble design is that standing air pressure waves occurring at the mouth of each runner are essentially "in phase," whereas with prior manifolds these waves were out of phase at low speed, resulting in a distinct rumbling sound that was audible in the passenger compartment
Ribbed block sides While providing overall stiffness to the block, ribs break up flat surfaces into small sections that are too stiff to resonate with engine internal noises
Isolated composite valve covers Mounting of the cylinder head covers is completely isolated to prevent them from vibrating in resonance with the internal noise in the cylinder head. The covers are made of composite material that has inherent damping characteristics to further resist noise transmission

3.5Liter High Output Engine

The new 3.5liter high output engine is significantly quieter than its predecessor. It incorporates the following noisepreventing structural stiffness features, providing the indicated stiffness increase relative to the prior 3.5liter engine:

The cylinder block has 11% greater torsional stiffness. High torsional frequency, torsional bending stiffness and lateral bending stiffness were engineered into the block using FEA. The following features contributed to the block's stiffness:
- Extensive ribbing throughout its structure
- Sixbolt main bearing caps four vertical, two transverse replace fourbolt caps used previously. They constrain the crankshaft to reduce deflection. The bearing cap's natural frequency exceeds the firing frequency of the engine. Stiff bearing caps also reduce the potential for wear caused by deflection under load
- A structuralbeam windage tray replaces a nonstructural tray. It provides added support to the main bearing caps that helps increase overall stiffness
Lightweight pistons 15% lighter than before provide more precise control of reciprocating masses. Improved balancing of rotating components reduces nominal engine unbalance by 10% from former levels
Castaluminum cylinder head covers, which provide inherent noise damping, are completely isolated to prevent noise in the cylinder head from being transferred to the covers
Increased accessory drive mounting bracket stiffness prevents these heavy items from vibrating independent of the engine, adding input to the power train mounts. The new accessory mounting arrangement provides the following stiffness improvements relative to the prior engine:
- Air conditioning compressor mounting: 52% stiffer
- Alternator mounting: 33% stiffer
- Power steering pump mounting: 24% stiffer

Shared Features

The LHS and 300M power trains incorporate the following noisepreventing improvements compared to the prior 3.5liter power train:

A structural oil pan, combined with a structural enginetotransmission collar, provides a 41% stiffer connection. The oil pan also adds stiffness to the cylinder block
Added structural ribbing increases transmission case stiffness 14%
The transmissiontocradle mount is stiffened through increased structural ribbing and revised mounting attachment
Selectfit engine main bearings reduce operating clearance
Cylinder block water flow passages designed using CFD help maintain uniform temperatures during warmup, keeping cylinders round for quiet operation
Refined dual, hydroelastic power train mounts, which use a combination of soft rubber elements and hydraulic damping make the engine mass a ride damper, contributing to a solid ride
Lower alternator operating speeds and revised alternator fan geometry reduce high speed fan noise
Stiffer alternator housings minimize low speed magnetic noise
A refined air induction system produces 15% less noise at the air inlet with a more pleasant sound than the prior system. By comparison, components are larger and located more appropriately for proper tuning than their predecessors. Major elements include:
- An "ideal" entry an opening that smooths entering air flow outside the engine compartment between the right front fender and wheelhouse liner
- A Helmholtz resonator attached to the side of the inlet air duct that is tuned to damp out objectionable noise in a narrow frequency range
- An inline resonator to control noise across the full spectrum intake air frequencies radiating to the passenger compartment