🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee (XJ)

Body Style:

Compact SUV

Chassis Code:

XJ

Generation Name:

Second Generation XJ

Production Years:

1984-2001

Covered Years:

1997, 1998, 1999

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV, highly regarded for its off-road capability and ruggedness.

Target Audience:

Owners and technicians performing maintenance, repairs, or modifications on Jeep Cherokee XJ models from 1997-1999.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Strengths:

Unibody construction (lighter and more comfortable than body-on-frame), legendary Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4WD systems, robust inline-6 engines, excellent off-road prowess.

Manual Value Proposition:

Indispensable tool for correct part identification, saving time and money by preventing incorrect part purchases. Crucial for restoring or maintaining the original integrity of the vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Systems:

All major vehicle systems including Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Fuel, Exhaust, Emissions.

Covered Models:

All Jeep Cherokee (XJ) models manufactured between 1997 and 1999, regardless of trim level (e.g., Sport, Classic, Limited).

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Parts Catalog

Purpose:

To accurately identify original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket replacement parts for the specified Jeep XJ models.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) or Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, engine block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake system, exhaust system, emission control systems.

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual and automatic), transfer case (e.g., NP231, NP242), front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, universal joints, CV joints, differentials.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (leaf springs/coils, control arms, sway bar), rear suspension (leaf springs), shocks, steering gear box, steering column, steering linkage, power steering system.

Brakes:

Front brake system (discs), rear brake system (drums/discs), brake master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, parking brake system.

Electrical:

Wiring harnesses, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, sensors, engine control unit (ECU), body control module (BCM).

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panels (fenders, doors, hood, tailgate), bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, dashboard, instrument cluster, climate control (HVAC) system components, doors, latches, hinges, roof rack components.

Identification Method:

Detailed exploded views with part numbers, diagrams, and descriptions to facilitate accurate part identification.

Component Breakdown:

Provides breakdown of all major assemblies into sub-components for detailed part sourcing.

Interchangeability Notes:

May include notes on part interchangeability across different model years or trims within the covered range.

Depth:

Highly detailed, focusing on OEM part numbers and their corresponding diagrams for precise part selection. Does not include repair procedures but is essential for sourcing parts for repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) with searchable text and high-resolution images/diagrams.

Print Quality:

High-resolution graphics and text suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document.

Binding Type:

N/A (if digital), Staple bound, perfect bound, or comb bound (if printed).

Paper Type:

N/A (if digital), typically durable, gloss or semi-gloss paper for printed versions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

4.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (242 ci) OHV (e.g., VIN R)

Engine Displacement:

3956 cc (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower 1997-1999:

180-190 hp @ 4400-4750 RPM (varies slightly by year/tune)

Torque 1997-1999:

220-225 lb-ft @ 3000-3200 RPM (varies slightly by year/tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)

Optional Engine:

2.5L Inline 4-Cylinder (150 ci) OHV (e.g., VIN T) - Less common in these years.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 42RE)

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (e.g., AX-15 or NV3550)

Transfer Case Options:

Selec-Trac (part-time 4WD with full-time 4WD mode), Command-Trac (part-time 4WD).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil (specific viscosity depends on manual transmission model).

Transfer Case Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for NP231/NP242).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 167-170 inches (4242-4318 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.7-65.4 inches (1618-1661 mm)

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) stock

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3600 lbs (1497-1633 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4700-4850 lbs (2132-2200 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Front Seats:

Approx. 68.9 cu ft (1951 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 30.0 cu ft (850 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings Typical:

Generally good for its era, though specific year ratings may vary. Frontal impact tests were becoming more standardized.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models, power-assisted steering.

Passive Safety:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, seat belts with pre-tensioners, reinforced unibody structure.

Standard Tire Size:

P215/75R15, P225/75R15 (depending on trim and options)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

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

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette and optional CD player. Optional premium sound systems available on higher trims.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4-6 speakers depending on trim and options.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. ABS was the primary electronic safety feature. Cruise control was common.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket solutions were required for modern audio integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty may require more frequent changes).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on driving conditions and fluid type.

Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years for conventional coolant; longer for modern OAT/HOAT coolants if compatible.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for most modern spark plugs (e.g., platinum or iridium) used in later 4.0L engines.

Engine Oil Type And Capacity:

API certified SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40. Capacity: 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 4.0L. (Consult specific manual for exact viscosity in extreme temperatures).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or compatible equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 10-11 quarts (9.5-10.4 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Problems 4.0L Engine:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially older 1991-1995 models, less common in 1997-1999 but still possible), rear main seal leaks, oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, distributor drive gear wear.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn leaf springs, loose steering box, worn track bar bushings, premature wear of ball joints and tie rod ends.

Common Problems Electrical:

Cracked dashboard housings, faulty instrument cluster gauges, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure, alternator failure, wiring harness chafing.

Common Problems Cooling System:

Leaking radiator, failing water pump, clogged heater core, hose failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history dating back to World War II, renowned for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities.

Xj Development:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary as the first compact SUV with a unibody construction, offering a smoother ride and lighter weight than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Xj Updates 1997-2001:

The 1997 model year brought a significant facelift, including a redesigned interior, updated exterior styling with larger windows, and revised front and rear suspension components.

Production Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Run Xj:

1984-2001 (longest-running SUV generation for Jeep at the time)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was widely praised by automotive journalists throughout its production for its capabilities and value. Often cited in 'best of' lists for SUVs and off-road vehicles of its era.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Maintained strong consumer loyalty due to its durability and off-road performance, often achieving high ratings in owner surveys for reliability in demanding conditions.

Emission Standards:

Compliant with US Federal EPA emission standards for the respective model years. Manual would contain specific part numbers for emission control components.