🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ is a highly regarded compact SUV, known for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and enduring appeal. This manual targets owners and independent mechanics who maintain and repair these vehicles.

Competitors:

Competed against models like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Pathfinder, often excelling in off-road prowess.

Xj Strengths:

Unibody construction (first SUV with this design), solid front axle (early models), legendary Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4x4 systems, robust drivetrain options.

Audience:

Professional technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and Jeep enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

All Systems:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, diagnostics, component testing (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft)

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Crank/Cam), ECM operation and diagnosis

Transmission Automatic:

42RE & 30RH: Diagnosis, overhaul, torque converter, valve body, cooler system

Transmission Manual:

AX-15 & NV3550: Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, lubrication

Transfer Case:

NP231 (Command-Trac): Operation, diagnosis, seal replacement, chain tension

Driveline:

Front & Rear Axles (Dana 30, Chrysler 8.25): Differential overhaul, gears, bearings, seals, U-joints, driveshafts

Suspension:

Front (Solid Leaf Spring - earlier XJ, though not standard '98) & Front Coil Spring/Control Arm: Shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, bushings, steering linkage

Steering:

Power steering system: Pump, steering gear, tie rods, idler arm, diagnosis

Brakes:

Front Disc (Vented Rotor), Rear Disc/Drum: Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), calipers, pads, rotors, lines, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

12V system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, HVAC system, exterior lighting

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converter, EGR system, evaporative emissions (EVAP)

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation

Component Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for removing, repairing, and installing major components

Diagnostic Testing:

Testing electrical circuits, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, vacuum testing

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications for camber, caster, toe (front and rear where applicable)

Air Conditioning Service:

Refrigerant handling (R134a), component replacement, leak detection

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Resolution:

High-resolution scanned pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Displacement:

4.0L (242 cu. in.) OHV Inline 6-Cylinder (Engine Code: 4.0L)

Horsepower 1998:

185 hp @ 4,600 rpm

Torque 1998:

220 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Material:

Cast Iron

Material:

Cast Iron

Capacity Quarts:

11.9 (with max cooling)

Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with distributorless ignition module (DIM)

Recommended Part Number:

Champion RC12LYC (OEM equivalent)

Viscosity:

SAE 10W-30 (API SG or SH)

Capacity:

5.0 (with filter)

Amperage:

117 Amp (typical)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE)

Type:

5-Speed Manual (AX-15)

Type:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

Type:

Manual Transmission Lubricant (API GL-4/GL-5, SAE 75W-90 recommended)

Type:

New Process NP231 (Command-Trac) Command-Trac Part-Time 4WD

Type:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

Serviceability:

Greaseable U-joints (front and rear driveshafts)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

101.4

Length Inches:

165.3

Width Inches:

69.4

Height Inches:

65.3

Curb Weight Lbs:

3,400 - 3,600 (approx., depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

4,600 - 4,800 (approx.)

Standard Tire Size:

P215/75R15

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x4.5 inches (5x114.3 mm)

Standard Wheel Size:

15x7 inches

Fuel Tank Capacity Gallons:

20.0

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

3 Stars (for earlier models, may vary slightly for '98, but generally considered a risk due to higher center of gravity)

ABS:

Optional (available on some models, typically 4-wheel ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger airbags

Seat Belts:

Front: 3-point inertia reel. Rear: Lap and shoulder belts (outboard), lap belt (center).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Power Accessories:

Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

3,000 - 5,000 miles (depending on driving conditions and oil type used)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:

30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)

Coolant Change Interval Miles:

30,000 miles or 2 years

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:

30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 (Mopar) or equivalent

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water and windshield washer solvent

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially early 4.0L), oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, vacuum leaks, exhaust manifold cracks, rust (especially rocker panels and unibody seams), transfer case chain stretch, interior component wear.

Specific Wear Points:

Control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, leaf spring bushings (if equipped with rear leaf springs).

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing reputation for rugged, off-road capable vehicles, dating back to its military origins in WWII.

Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984, pioneering the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction, setting it apart from body-on-frame competitors.

Xj Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Xj Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Updates:

The 1998 model year saw minor refinements, including potential updates to emissions controls, interior comfort features, and minor styling tweaks, while retaining the core XJ platform and popular 4.0L engine.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Recognition:

Consistently praised in automotive media for its off-road capability and value proposition in the compact SUV segment.

Segment Leader Off Road:

Often considered a benchmark for off-road performance within its class during its production run.