🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Year:

1998

Generation Code:

Second Generation (Facelift)

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Jeep owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, factory-level information essential for maintaining and repairing the 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ, saving significant costs compared to dealership services.

Manual Type Comparison:

Distinguished from owner's manuals by its in-depth technical procedures and diagnostic information.

Completeness:

Claimed to cover 'every single detail,' indicating exceptional breadth and depth of information.

Quality Designation:

Explicitly stated as a 'QUALITY manual' emphasizing its professional nature.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ models

Covered Engines:

All 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ engine variants

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500+

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, as commonly sold for such manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full diagnostics, overhaul, component replacement (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system)

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, fuel injection system (EFI), sensors, ECM/PCM operation

Transmission Manual:

Service, repair, and overhaul of manual transmissions (e.g., AX-15, NV3550 if applicable to '98)

Transmission Automatic:

Service, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions (e.g., 30RH, 42RE)

Drivetrain 4X4:

Operation, maintenance, and repair of transfer cases (e.g., NP231) and front/rear axles

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs (leaf and coil)

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, linkages, components

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake

Electrical System Basic:

Battery, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrumentation

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, glass, frame components

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, evaporative emissions (EVAP)

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems

Rebuilds:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including specifications and clearances

Alignment:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures

Torque Specs:

Detailed torque specifications for critical fasteners

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits

Depth:

Comprehensive and detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using diagnostic tools and interpreting scan data for the period

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for in-garage use

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family Common:

AMC/Chrysler 4.0L Inline-6 (6-242)

Engine Displacement:

3957 cc (242 cubic inches)

Engine Configuration:

Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.500 in (98.4 mm x 88.9 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.75:1

Horsepower Est:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm

Torque Est:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine Management:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Pump Pressure:

31-39 psi (214-269 kPa)

Injector Type:

Bosch 4-hole fuel injectors

Optional Engine Common:

2.5L AMC/Chrysler 4-Cylinder (4-150) - less common in later XJ years but possible

Engine Oil Capacity:

6 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter

Engine Oil Spec:

API SN or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

42RE 4-Speed Automatic

Optional Transmission Type:

AX-15 5-Speed Manual (less common for 1998)

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronic control with Overdrive (42RE)

Transfer Case:

New Process NP231 Command-Trac (part-time, 2WD/4WD Part-Time/4WD Low)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

MS-9224 (GL-3 or GL-4 equivalent, e.g., SAE 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

167.9 inches (4265 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) depending on tire size/suspension

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 30.3 cu ft (858 L)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L)

Curb Weight Est:

3500 - 4000 lbs (1588 - 1814 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment and configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:

Not directly applicable/tested in modern standards, but generally considered robust for its era.

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Poor to Marginal (typical for vehicles of this era without significant structural updates for side impacts/rollover protection)

Braking System:

Front disc, rear drum with optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point, rear lap and shoulder belts

Rollover Protection:

Integrated sport bar (part of the unibody structure) provides some rollover protection, but not to modern standards.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, and 4-6 speakers

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with optional Air Conditioning

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or four wheels depending on configuration.

Connectivity Features:

Basic, with limited modern connectivity options. Often features a standard antenna.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-5 years

Coolant Spec:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF

Common Problems:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L), cooling system leaks (water pump, radiator, hoses), valve cover gasket leaks, catalytic converter failure, sagging leaf springs, minor electrical gremlins.

Suspension Wear:

Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to off-road use and age.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Built upon Jeep's legacy of robust, go-anywhere capability and utilitarian design.

Xj Generation:

The XJ Cherokee pioneered the compact SUV segment and was produced from 1984 to 2001. The 1998 model represents a facelifted version with updated interiors and some mechanical refinements.

1998 Updates:

Received minor interior updates, including a revised dashboard and improved HVAC system compared to earlier XJs. Some powertrain refinements may have been introduced.

Production Period:

1984-2001

Manufacturer:

American Motors Corporation (AMC) until 1987, then Chrysler Corporation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Pioneer:

Widely recognized as a pioneering vehicle in the sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

Offroad Capability:

Consistently praised for its off-road prowess and capability, often outperforming more modern and expensive SUVs.

Longevity Reputation:

Known for its ruggedness and longevity, with many examples still in service after decades.