Category:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and owners who perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Key Competitors 1997:
Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer
Platform:
Unibody construction (distinctive for its era) offering a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Off Road Heritage:
The Cherokee XJ's legendary off-road prowess, often enhanced by aftermarket modifications.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for the 4.0L inline-6 engine (AMC 242) and the 2.5L inline-4 engine (AMC 150), including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, timing, cooling, and lubrication systems.
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for the Selec-Trac NV242 transfer case, and the AW4 automatic transmission (if equipped) and AX-15 manual transmission (if equipped), including internal components, linkages, and fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Repair and maintenance of the rear axle assembly (Dana 35 or Dana 44), driveshafts, universal joints, and wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Detailed information on front and rear suspension components, including leaf springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc brake and rear drum brake systems, including component identification, replacement, bleeding procedures, parking brake system, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) if applicable.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, including pump, steering gear, steering column, and linkage.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrumentation, and accessories.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, seat adjustments, and chassis repair procedures.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, blower motor, and climate control system diagnosis.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication points, and tire rotations.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and adjustment, including torque specifications and critical clearances.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Depth:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and chassis rebuilds.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval, provided it's an officially scanned FSM.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution images and graphics for clear visibility of diagrams, illustrations, and repair steps.
Binding:
Not applicable (PDF format)
Paper:
Not applicable (PDF format)
Engine Code 1:
4.0L (242 ci) OHV Inline-6
Engine Description 1:
Iron Duke (AMC 150) - less common in later XJs, but possible for some 1997 models, though the 4.0L is dominant.
Engine Code 2:
2.5L (150 ci) OHV Inline-4
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 185 hp @ 4700 RPM
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM
Horsepower 2.5L:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 RPM
Torque 2.5L:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for the 4.0L; distributor-based ignition for the 2.5L.
Automatic:
Chrysler 42RE 4-speed automatic (common for 4.0L models)
Manual:
New Venture Gear AX-15 5-speed manual (common for 4.0L and 2.5L models)
Transfer Case Type:
New Process NV242 Selec-Trac (Full-time 4x4 capability)
Transmission Fluid 42Re:
Mopar ATF+4 or equivalent (check specific manual for early recommendations, e.g., ATF+3)
Transmission Fluid Ax15:
API GL-3 or GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars (driver and passenger, though testing standards differ from modern vehicles)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels, depending on configuration.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts and lap belts for rear passengers.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Dashboard Design:
Completely redesigned dashboard for 1997, featuring improved ergonomics, a more modern instrument cluster, and updated climate controls.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Power Accessories:
Optional power windows, power locks, and power mirrors available on higher trim levels.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, and as per manual for manual transmissions.
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil 4.0L:
API SJ or SL, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Engine Oil 2.5L:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity)
Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent 50/50 mix.
Common Issues:
Head gasket failures (particularly on the 4.0L, though less prevalent in 1997 models than earlier ones), rust (especially on rockers, floor pans, and rear quarters), transmission cooler line leaks, heater core leaks, and starter motor issues.
Recommended Checks:
Regular inspection of the cooling system, brake lines, exhaust system, and suspension bushings for wear and tear.
Jeep Legacy:
Built on Jeep's long-standing reputation for robust off-road capability and durability.
Xj Generation:
The XJ Cherokee was the first compact SUV to feature a unibody construction, introduced in 1984. The 1997 model represents a significant facelift and update to the XJ platform, often referred to as the 'facelifted' or 'late model' XJ.
1997 Updates:
Key updates for 1997 included a redesigned interior, revised exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, revised fender flares), improved aerodynamics, a more comfortable suspension, and a more powerful base engine option (the 4.0L became more standard).
Production Years Xj:
1984-2001 (North America), 2001 (International)
Manufacturing Locations:
Various Jeep/Chrysler plants in North America.
