🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Generation:

XJ

Model Years Covered:

1997-2001

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV

Jeep Cherokee Xj Legacy:

Renowned for its off-road capability, ruggedness, and unibody construction, making it a highly sought-after vehicle.

Competitors 1997-2001:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.

Cherokee Xj Defining Features:

Unibody construction, legendary Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4x4 systems, robust 4.0L inline-six engine, compact yet capable dimensions.

Target Audience:

Jeep Cherokee XJ owners, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, automotive restoration enthusiasts.

Key Benefit:

Empowers users with the knowledge to perform all maintenance and repair tasks, saving time and money.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

4.0L (OHV) I6, 2.5L (AMC I4) MPI

Transmission Coverage:

42RE (4-speed Auto), NV3550 (5-speed Manual), NP231 Transfer Case

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Driveline, Body, Frame

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Accessories

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair of all engine components including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, valvetrain.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery and injection, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for NV3550.

Transmission Automatic:

42RE automatic transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, bands.

Driveline:

Front and rear axle assemblies, differential service, U-joints, CV joints, propeller shafts, NP231 transfer case service.

Suspension:

Front (Dana 30) and rear (Chrysler 8.25/Dana 35) suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, sway bars.

Steering:

Power steering system components, steering gear box, tie rods, steering column, linkage.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders.

Electrical Charging Starting:

Alternator, starter motor, battery system, ignition switch.

Lighting Signals:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, hazard lights.

Body Interior:

Door mechanisms, window regulators, seat systems, dashboard, interior trim, seals, weatherstripping.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, bumpers, hood, tailgate, roof rack system, mirrors.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control, refrigerant handling.

Safety Restraint:

Airbag system, seat belts, pre-tensioners.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, including DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, radiators, brake pads/rotors, shocks, and struts.

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete rebuild procedures for engines, transmissions, and transfer cases, including torque specifications and clearances.

Adjustment Procedures:

Steering alignment adjustments, clutch adjustment, parking brake adjustment.

Wiring Diagram Interpretation:

Guidance on reading and understanding complex electrical schematics for troubleshooting.

Special Tool Usage:

Identification and recommended usage of specialized tools for specific repair tasks.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive - covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Diagnostic Information:

In-depth diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause correlation, and testing procedures.

Specifications Tolerances:

Extensive list of all required torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and wear tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for easy information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

ERH (4.0L OHV I6)

Engine Displacement 1:

3956 cc (242 cu. in.)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Bore X Stroke 1:

3.875 in. x 3.562 in. (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 180-190 hp @ 4600-4700 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)

Torque 1:

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

Engine Code 2:

AMC 242 (2.5L I4 MPI)

Engine Displacement 2:

2507 cc (153 cu. in.)

Engine Configuration 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 114-125 hp @ 4800-5000 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 145-150 lb-ft @ 3000-3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

NV3550 5-Speed Manual (often paired with 4.0L)

Optional Transmission:

42RE 4-Speed Automatic (often paired with 4.0L and 2.5L)

Transfer Case Options:

NP231 Command-Trac (part-time 2WD/4WD), NP242 Selec-Trac (full-time 2WD/4WD)

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

MS-9224 (or equivalent GL-3/GL-4 75W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transfer Case Fluid Spec:

MS-9420 (or equivalent ATF+4)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

167.4 inches (4252 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

63.8 inches (1620 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm)

Approach Angle:

Approx. 37.0 degrees

Departure Angle:

Approx. 27.0 degrees

Breakover Angle:

Approx. 150 degrees (depending on suspension lift)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,500 lbs (1451 - 1588 kg), varies by configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,700 - 4,800 lbs (2132 - 2177 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with appropriate towing package and engine

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1,200 - 1,500 lbs (544 - 680 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 35.9 cu ft (1017 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 71.2 cu ft (2016 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4-star (may vary slightly by configuration and test date)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels, optional 4-wheel ABS

Traction Control:

Not widely available during this generation, some later models may have limited systems.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants

Body Structure:

Reinforced unibody construction with integrated crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player. Optional Infinity speaker system.

User Interface:

Analog controls for radio, climate, and other functions.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional depending on trim level.

Anti Theft:

Factory immobilizer system available on some models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited connectivity; manual covers basic electrical system diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-4 years

Transmission Fluid Service:

Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km); Manual: Inspect periodically, replace as needed.

Engine Oil Type:

API SN or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 for colder climates)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0L I6: 5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter; 2.5L I4: 5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange/Blue) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issue Cracked Cylinder Heads:

Known for potential cylinder head cracking (especially earlier 4.0L models, but can occur in this range), often exacerbated by overheating. Manual covers diagnostic and replacement procedures.

Common Issue Heater Matrix Leaks:

Heater matrix (heater core) can develop leaks, leading to coolant in the cabin. Manual details HVAC system removal and replacement.

Common Issue Oil Filter Housing Leaks:

Oil filter housing gasket can degrade and leak. Manual covers its removal and replacement.

Common Issue Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Rear main engine seal can leak. Manual provides steps for replacement, often requiring transmission removal.

Common Issue Automatic Transmission Hard Shifting:

42RE transmissions can develop hard shifting issues, often related to solenoids or valve body. Manual offers diagnostic and repair guidance.

Common Issue Radiator Fan Clutch Failure:

Mechanical fan clutch can fail, leading to poor cooling at low speeds. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

Common Issue Power Window Regulators:

Power window regulators can become weak or break. Manual details their removal and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep History Context:

Jeep has a long lineage of rugged, go-anywhere vehicles dating back to World War II, known for their off-road prowess and durability.

Xj Introduction:

The Cherokee XJ was introduced in 1984 as a revolutionary compact SUV, pioneering the unibody construction in its class.

Xj Updates 1997-2001:

This period represents the final phase of the XJ's production, featuring updated exterior styling (revised front and rear fascias, fenders, hood), improved interior (new dashboard, seats, and door panels), and updated powertrain controls.

Xj Production Span:

1984-2001 (North America); continued in other markets longer.

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Sales Trend Context:

The XJ remained popular throughout its run, appreciated for its value, capability, and longevity.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Cherokee Xj Recognition General:

The Cherokee XJ has consistently been praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its off-road capability, durability, and value, often appearing on 'best SUVs' or 'most capable off-roaders' lists.

Cherokee Xj Recognition Durability:

Its robust mechanicals, particularly the 4.0L engine, have earned it a reputation for longevity and reliability when properly maintained.

Vehicle Reliability Context:

While specific ratings vary, the XJ is generally considered reliable, with common issues often being age-related wear and tear rather than fundamental design flaws. The manual helps address these issues.

Manual Accuracy:

This manual is compiled from official factory service information, ensuring accuracy and adherence to OEM specifications.