🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Years Covered:

1984-1993

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, off-roaders, owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Key Competitors 1984-1993:

Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Isuzu Rodeo.

Vehicle Platform:

Unibody construction (a pioneering feature in its class).

Off Road Capability:

Renowned for its robust off-road prowess, often exceeding competitors in its class due to solid axles (early models) and capable 4WD systems.

Durability:

Known for its ruggedness and longevity, making it a popular choice for modification and long-term ownership.

📋 Manual Details

Geographical Coverage:

North America (primarily)

Regional Variations Covered:

Likely covers models sold in USA, Canada, and potentially Mexico. Specific regional differences may not be explicitly detailed unless significant.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Manual Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

Language:

English

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul procedures, component identification, specifications, timing, and diagnostics for all major engine variants offered during these years.

Engine Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI) components, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, lines, and diagnostics.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, and coolant specifications.

Engine Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, wires, and timing adjustments.

Engine Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emissions controls.

Transmission Manual:

Repair, overhaul, and specifications for manual transmissions (e.g., Aisin AX-5, AX-15).

Transmission Automatic:

Repair, overhaul, and specifications for automatic transmissions (e.g., AW4).

Drivetrain Transfer Case:

Service and repair of NP231, NP242 (Selec-Trac) transfer cases.

Drivetrain Axles:

Front and rear axle assembly, differentials, bearings, seals, and gear ratio specifications.

Suspension Front:

Leaf spring and shackle configurations, shock absorbers, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Leaf spring and shackle configurations, shock absorbers, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering system components, pump, gearbox, tie rods, and steering linkage.

Brake System:

Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, proportioning valve, parking brake.

Electrical System Battery Charging:

Battery, alternator, voltage regulator, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, ignition switch.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, and associated switches.

Electrical System Instruments Gauges:

Instrument cluster, speed sensor, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, trim.

Body Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, trim panels, headliner, carpeting.

HVAC System:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant.

Emission Control:

Detailed information on emissions control devices and procedures for compliance.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, fuel pump replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues across all systems.

Diagnostics:

Component testing, electrical circuit analysis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable (OBD-I era).

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for various circuits and options.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for mechanical and electrical systems, including testing of sensors and actuators.

Specification Detail:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressures, and electrical resistance values.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution scans suitable for clear viewing and printing.

Searchability:

Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1984-1986:

2.8L (173 cu in) GM 'LR2' V6

Engine 1987-1990:

4.0L (242 cu in) AMC '242' Straight-6

Engine 1991-1993:

4.0L (242 cu in) AMC '242' Straight-6 (updated with improved head design)

Engine Optional Early:

2.5L (150 cu in) AMC 'Tech IV' Inline-4 (early years)

4.0L Inline 6 Horsepower:

Approximately 177-190 hp (depending on year and specific tuning)

4.0L Inline 6 Torque:

Approximately 220-240 lb-ft (depending on year and specific tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for 4.0L, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 2.8L and early 2.5L.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard Early:

3-speed automatic (TorqueFlite A904 based, later Chrysler 30RH)

Transmission Standard Later:

4-speed automatic (AW4)

Transmission Optional Manual:

5-speed manual (AX-5, AX-15)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (part-time, NP231), Selec-Trac (full-time/part-time, NP242)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

167.4 inches (4252 mm)

Width:

69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Height:

64.4 inches (1636 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 45.7 cu ft (1.29 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 70.2 cu ft (1.99 m³)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,100-3,500 lbs (1406-1588 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

As an older vehicle, official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this era may be limited or unavailable. The manual would cover structural integrity and safety system maintenance.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional on later models, typically rear-wheel ABS initially.

Seat Belts:

Lap and shoulder belts, manual would detail adjustment and maintenance.

Airbags:

Not available on models covered by this manual.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player on later models. Manual would cover removal/installation and basic diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on many models; manual covers its operation and servicing.

Power Windows Locks:

Optional on some trims; manual details electrical operation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for exact specifications).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Generally recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic transmissions, manual transmissions vary (consult manual).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 10W-40 for 4.0L, check for 2.8L/2.5L variations). API service classification required.

Transmission Fluid Specification Aw4:

Dexron II or equivalent (ATF).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90 GL-5).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based, typically green type. Refer to manual for capacity and type (e.g., Mopar).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact type).

Common Issues 4.0L:

Cracked cylinder heads (later models), oil filter housing leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, 'Death Wobble' (suspension/steering related).

Common Issues General:

Leaf spring sag, U-joint wear, exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L), electrical connector corrosion, power steering pump noise.

Frequently Replaced Parts:

Water pump, thermostat, radiator, brake pads/rotors, U-joints, ball joints, tie rod ends, alternator, starter motor, fuel pump.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, with its roots in military vehicles, has a long history of robust and capable off-road vehicles.

Cherokee Xj Introduction:

Introduced in 1984, the XJ Cherokee was revolutionary for its time, being the first compact SUV built with unibody construction.

Cherokee Xj Updates 1984-1993:

Key updates include the introduction of the 4.0L inline-6 engine in 1987, significant interior and exterior styling updates in 1989, and improved engine components (like the revised cylinder head) in the early 90s.

Production Plants:

Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.

Production Run:

1984-2001 (with distinct generations, this manual covers the first generation XJ).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

While specific awards might not be detailed in the manual, the XJ was highly acclaimed by automotive press for its SUV capabilities and innovative unibody design.

Off Road Reviews:

Consistently praised in off-road publications for its capability and durability.