🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1997

Drivetrain:

4X4

Market Orientation:

Right-Hand Drive (RHD)

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle

Perception:

Renowned for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and utility. A staple for outdoor enthusiasts and off-roading communities.

Competitors 1997:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco II (discontinued), Mitsubishi Montero, Isuzu Rodeo.

Key Differentiators:

Body-on-frame construction, superior off-road articulation and ground clearance, stronger 4x4 systems (Selec-Trac), more powerful engine options for its class.

Body Style:

Two-door and Four-door configurations (4-door standard for XJ).

Iconic Status:

Highly regarded for its durability and off-road prowess, considered a classic by many enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Technical Coverage:

Comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and bodywork repairs.

Diagnostic Coverage:

Troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic flowcharts, and common fault identification.

Maintenance Coverage:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and component inspections.

Estimated Pages:

Over 1000 (typical for this era's comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Scope:

Professional Technician Level

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, torque specifications, timing, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, emission control systems.

Transmission:

Automatic (AW4, NP242 Selec-Trac) and Manual (AX-15) transmission overhaul, diagnostics, shift control, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axles, differentials, transfer case, driveshafts, CV joints, U-joints, wheel bearings, 4WD system operation and repair.

Suspension:

Front (leaf spring or coil spring depending on variant, though XJ typically leaf rear) and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, steering linkage, steering gear/box specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, ABS (if equipped) diagnostics and repair.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, fuses and relays, body control modules, diagnosis of electrical faults.

Body:

Exterior and interior body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, paint repair, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Routine Maintenance:

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

Engine Repair:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head service, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and bearing service, camshaft replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission rebuild, clutch replacement (manual), torque converter service (automatic), internal component repair.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and shoe replacement, rotor and drum resurfacing/replacement, brake line and hose replacement, bleeding procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Circuit testing, component testing, wiring harness repair, troubleshooting electrical gremlins.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, shock absorber replacement, power steering pump and gearbox repair.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic approaches to diagnosing common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Depth:

Detailed component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, torque specifications, diagnostic charts, electrical schematics.

User Level:

Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable for physical workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4.0L Inline-6 OHV (AMC 242)

Displacement:

3956 cc (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

98.4 mm x 86.6 mm (3.875 in x 3.41 in)

Compression Ratio:

8.75:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 185 hp @ 4700 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Cylinder Head:

Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Head

Valvetrain:

Pushrod Actuated Valves, Roller Lifters

Fuel System:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or distributor with integrated ignition coil (depending on specific build date).

Emission Controls:

Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), Oxygen Sensors.

Engine Code Optional:

2.5L Inline-4 OHV (AMC 150)

Displacement Optional:

2469 cc (150 cubic inches)

Horsepower Optional:

Approx. 125 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque Optional:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmission:

Chrysler 42RE (4-Speed Automatic)

Manual Transmission:

New Process (NP) AX-15 (5-Speed Manual)

Transfer Case:

New Process (NP) NP231 (Command-Trac) or NP242 (Selec-Trac - often optional/higher trims)

Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent ATF+3)

Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 quarts (9.0 Liters) with converter replacement

Fluid Type:

GL-3 or GL-4 Gear Oil, 75W-90

Capacity:

Approx. 2.5 quarts (2.4 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 172.9 inches (4392 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

Approx. 64.1 inches (1628 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 101.4 inches (2575 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Varies by trim/suspension, typically around 8-10 inches (203-254 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400 - 3700 lbs (1542 - 1678 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4700 - 5000 lbs (2132 - 2268 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Subject to variation, typically 3-star for SUVs of this era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (Optional/Standard on some trims)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Front Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, driver and passenger pretensioners.

Frame Construction:

Unibody construction with integrated ladder frame elements for enhanced rigidity and off-road durability.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM stereo with cassette player; optional CD player and/or premium sound system.

Speakers:

Basic 4-speaker system; optional 6-speaker premium system.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims, optional on base models.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (optional on many models).

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on basic vehicle functions. No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration.

Power Windows Locks:

Optional or standard on higher trims; manual windows and locks on base models.

Air Conditioning:

Optional or standard on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) for automatic, consult manual for manual transmission intervals.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval 4.0L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs (check specific plug type).

Engine Oil Type 4.0L:

API Service SN or SP, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or compatible green ethylene glycol coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Common Issue 1:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially earlier 4.0L models, though improvements were made by '97, vigilance is key).

Common Issue 2:

Water pump leaks, thermostat housing leaks, heater core issues.

Common Issue 3:

Rear main seal leaks, oil filter housing leaks (4.0L).

Common Issue 4:

Leaf spring perch cracks on the rear axle housing due to stress.

Common Issue 5:

Rust: rocker panels, rear quarter panels, floor pans, and frame rails are susceptible.

Common Issue 6:

Electrical gremlins: grounds, relays, and minor wiring issues can arise with age.

Common Issue 7:

CV joint wear on front axles, especially if frequently used in 4WD.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history originating from WWII military vehicles, known for its go-anywhere capability and robust engineering.

Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee was revolutionary upon its introduction in 1984, being the first compact SUV with a unibody construction, setting a new standard for comfort and on-road manners in the segment while retaining off-road prowess.

Xj Generation Features:

The 1997 model year marked a significant facelift for the XJ, including updated exterior styling (new grille, front fascia, fenders, headlights), interior revisions (dashboard, seats, door panels), and improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) characteristics.

Production Years Xj:

1984-2001 (North America); 1984-2001 (global, with various regional updates and final production in China/Venezuela later).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA; also assembled in Canada, Venezuela, and China for different markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Magazine Accolades:

Consistently ranked highly by off-road publications for its capability and value.

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific awards vary year to year, the Cherokee XJ has been lauded by numerous automotive journalists for its segment-defining design and performance.

Consumer Reports Ranking:

Often rated as average to above average for reliability by consumer reporting agencies of the time, with specific powertrain reliability being a strong point for the 4.0L I6.