🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

1988

👋 Introduction

Original Purpose:

Designed for Jeep owners and professional mechanics to service and repair the 1988 Cherokee.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data for maintaining and repairing a classic off-road vehicle, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

Key Selling Point:

Detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, and comprehensive diagnostic information.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Completeness:

Comprehensive Workshop Manual

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine electrical, starting, charging

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (AX4, AW4, BA/10), transfer case (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), axles, drivelines, CV joints

Chassis Suspension:

Front suspension (leaf spring, leaf spring with track bar), rear suspension (leaf spring), steering system, power steering, steering column, steering gear

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, power assist, parking brake, hydraulic system

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures

Body Exterior:

Body construction, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, windows, mirrors, convertible top (if applicable), paint and trim

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, interior trim, headliner, carpeting, climate control system (HVAC), heating, ventilation, air conditioning

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common issues and solutions for all major systems

Fuel System Detail:

Fuel pump testing, fuel injector service, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tire rotation, battery maintenance, spark plug replacement

Component Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, shock absorber replacement, starter motor rebuild, alternator repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting electrical faults, diagnosing engine performance issues, identifying suspension noises, brake system diagnosis

Adjustment Procedures:

Ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, parking brake adjustment, door alignment

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, wheels)

Body And Frame:

Body panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, tailgate repair, rust prevention and repair guidance.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor replacement, evaporator core service, heater core replacement, refrigerant handling (R-12).

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including engine, lighting, dash, and accessories.

Depth Level:

Complete Rebuild and Overhaul Procedures

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable Text

Illustration Quality:

Clear, Illustrated Step-by-Step Instructions

Page Quality:

High-Resolution Scans

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Page Count Detail:

As this is a digital download derived from original factory documentation, the precise page count can vary based on the source scan quality and inclusion of all sections. It is expected to be a comprehensive volume covering all aspects of the vehicle.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L AMC 150 (I4), 4.0L AMC 242 (I6), 4.2L AMC 258 (I6)

4.0L Horsepower:

Approx. 177 hp @ 4000 rpm (for the 1988 model year)

4.0L Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (for the 1988 model year)

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for 4.0L and 4.2L; Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 2.5L

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Code 2 5L:

AMC 150

Engine Code 4 0L:

AMC 242

Engine Code 4 2L:

AMC 258

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (BA/10) or 3-speed Automatic Transmission (AX4)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW4)

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (2-speed part-time 4WD), Selec-Trac (2-speed full-time 4WD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or equivalent (check specific transmission for exact specification, manual will detail this)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (check specific transmission for exact specification, manual will detail this)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.4 inches

Length:

Approx. 169.7 inches

Width:

Approx. 69.2 inches

Height:

Approx. 62.4 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Varies by engine and configuration, consult manual for specific ratings.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

NHTSA data from the era may be available, but comprehensive modern crash test ratings are unlikely for this vintage.

Braking System:

Front disc, rear drum brakes. ABS was not commonly available or standard on this model year.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts, manual seatbelt adjusters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo radio, optional cassette player, manual tuning.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or widely available feature on 1988 models.

Connectivity Features:

Basic vehicle diagnostics, manual hazard light switch, manual window cranks.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for precise recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) for the 4.0L engine, check manual for 2.5L and 4.2L.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a green color (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Rear main seal leaks, cracked cylinder heads (less common on 4.0L than later models), worn leaf spring bushings, rust in common areas (rocker panels, floor pans), starter commutator issues.

Common Problems Electrical:

Flickering dash lights, intermittent power to accessories, grounds issues, starter solenoid problems.

Common Problems Suspension:

Worn ball joints (on some front suspension types), worn tie rod ends, sagging leaf springs.

Oil Filter Example:

Wix 51515, Fram PH8A, Mopar MO-090 (ensure compatibility for specific engine).

Air Filter Example:

Wix 42748, Fram CA2872 (ensure compatibility for specific engine).

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

The Jeep brand has a long history of producing rugged, off-road capable vehicles dating back to World War II.

Cherokee Xj Generation:

This 1988 model is part of the groundbreaking first generation (XJ) Cherokee, which introduced unibody construction to the SUV segment.

Production Period:

The XJ Cherokee was produced from 1984 to 2001, with significant updates and powertrain changes throughout its run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

The XJ Cherokee platform was highly regarded for its off-road capability and innovative unibody design, earning accolades as a pioneer in the compact SUV segment.