1990 Acura Legend Repair Manual

The 1990 Acura Legend is a luxury executive car featuring a 2.7L V6 engine, front-wheel drive, 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, ABS brakes, air conditioning, power windows/locks, and premium audio system. This repair manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, component replacement, and technical specifications for proper servicing and repair.

Vehicle Specifications

Technical details and factory specifications for the 1990 Acura Legend.

Specification	Details
Engine	2.7L C27A1 V6 SOHC
Horsepower	160 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque	162 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Fuel System	Multi-point fuel injection
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with ABS
Wheelbase	108.7 inches
Curb Weight	Approx. 3,200 lbs
Fuel Capacity	18.0 gallons

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
3. Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
4. Timing belt: Every 60,000 miles
5. Brake fluid flush: Every 2 years
6. Coolant replacement: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
7. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine System

Procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and component replacement.

1. Spark plug replacement: Remove ignition wires, use 5/8" spark plug socket
2. Valve adjustment: Cold engine only, intake: 0.008-0.009 in, exhaust: 0.009-0.010 in
3. Timing belt: Align marks, tension properly to prevent engine damage
4. Oil change: 4.5 quarts with filter, 10W-30 recommended
5. Compression test: All cylinders should be within 10% of each other

CAUTION! Engine components are hot after operation. Allow proper cooling time before servicing.

Transmission

• Automatic Transmission: Uses Honda ATF-Z1 fluid, capacity: 7.4 quarts
• Manual Transmission: Honda MTF fluid, capacity: 2.6 quarts
• Shift Linkage: Adjust for proper gear engagement
• Clutch: Hydraulic system, bleed procedure required for replacement
• Differential: Integrated with transmission, uses same fluid

Brake System

ABS-equipped braking system with front disc and rear drum configuration.

Front Brakes: Disc brakes with single-piston calipers, rotor thickness: 0.94 in minimum

Rear Brakes: Drum brakes with self-adjusting mechanism, drum diameter: 9.0 in maximum

ABS System: Four-wheel anti-lock system, diagnostic connector under dashboard

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove caliper bolts, compress piston, install new pads with shims

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 70-amp alternator and 55-amp main fuse.

1. Battery: Group 24, 550 CCA minimum, located in engine compartment
2. Alternator: Output 70 amps, test voltage: 13.5-14.5V at 2000 rpm
3. Starter: 1.4 kW, check solenoid operation and pinion engagement
4. Fuse Box: Main under-hood fuse box with individual circuit protection
5. Lighting: Headlight adjustment screws located on housing

Tip: Disconnect battery negative terminal before electrical work to prevent shorts.

Suspension & Steering

Independent front suspension with MacPherson struts, power steering standard.

1. Strut Replacement: Support vehicle, remove wheel, disconnect sway bar and steering linkage
2. Ball Joints: Check for play, replace if movement exceeds 0.050 inches
3. Tie Rod Ends: Count threads for alignment reference during replacement
4. Wheel Alignment: Front: Camber -0°30' ± 45', Toe: 0 ± 0.08 in
5. Power Steering: Use Honda power steering fluid, check pump for noise

WARNING! Use proper jack stands when working under vehicle. Never rely on jack alone.

Cooling System

Pressurized cooling system with thermostat, radiator, and electric fan.

Radiator Cap Pressure: 13-17 psi

Thermostat: Opens at 180°F (82°C)

Coolant Capacity: 7.4 quarts with heater

Coolant Type: 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water

Fan Operation: Electric thermostatic control, check relay and sensor

Fuel System

Multi-point fuel injection with electric in-tank fuel pump.

Fuel Pressure: 35-40 psi with vacuum hose disconnected

Fuel Filter: Replace every 30,000 miles, located under vehicle

Injectors: Resistance: 1.5-2.5 ohms at 68°F (20°C)

Fuel Pump: Access through rear seat, check for 12V at connector

Safety Precautions

Essential safety measures for all repair procedures.

• Always disconnect battery before electrical work
• Use jack stands - never work under vehicle supported only by jack
• Wear safety glasses when using impact tools
• Handle fluids properly - avoid skin contact with coolant and brake fluid
• Ensure proper ventilation when working with fuel system

CAUTION! Airbag system contains explosive components. Disconnect battery and wait 3 minutes before servicing.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, ignition, fuel	Check battery voltage, spark, fuel pressure at rail
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat, fan	Check coolant level, thermostat operation, electric fan
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Measure rotor runout, replace if exceeds 0.003 in
Transmission slipping	Fluid level, bands	Check fluid level and condition, adjust bands if applicable
Electrical issues	Grounds, alternator	Check main grounds, alternator output, fuse connections

Technical Support: Acura Customer Service: 1-800-382-2238

Parts: Genuine Acura parts recommended for optimal performance