Historical Context:
The Jeep Cherokee XJ was a groundbreaking SUV, pioneering the unibody construction for its class, offering robust capability in a compact package.
Competitors 1995:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder
Vehicle Strengths:
Off-road capability, durable unibody construction, reliable powertrain options, versatile size.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, Jeep enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their 1995 Cherokee XJ.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
12V System, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Horn, Power Accessories
Body And Frame:
Frame & Unibody, Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass & Hardware
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) System
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Lines, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Filter, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Top-offs, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Digital Format Notes:
While the original is likely print, digital versions (PDF) are common and typically searchable.
Print Quality Notes:
Original print quality is high, with clear diagrams and text. Digital scans aim to replicate this.
Binding Type Notes:
Original typically bound for durability in a shop environment (e.g., spiral or stitched).
Paper Type Notes:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop use, resistant to grease and fluids.
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline-6 OHV (242 ci)
Engine Description:
AMC 242, known for its torque and durability.
Horsepower 4.0L:
190 hp @ 4750 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
225 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Cylinder Head Material:
Cast Iron
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.580 in
Engine Code Optional:
2.5L Inline-4 OHV (150 ci)
Horsepower 2.5L:
125 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic (AW4)
Transmission Description Standard:
Aisin-Warner AW4, known for its robustness and smooth shifting.
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Manual (AX-5)
Transmission Description Optional:
Ax5 manual transmission, a lighter-duty option.
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-Time), Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Full-Time)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90 or 75W-140)
Curb Weight:
3,300 - 3,600 lbs (approximate, varies by configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4,700 - 5,300 lbs (approximate)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) - Specific to 1995 models may vary based on testing procedures of the era.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (Rear Disc optional/later models)
ABS Availability:
Available on some models/trims
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, Optional CD Player
Speaker Configuration:
Typically 4 or 6 speakers
Power Accessories:
Optional power windows, power door locks, power mirrors
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics I) - requires specific scan tools for '95, though some are transitioning to OBD-II.
Oil Change Interval:
3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (whichever comes first)
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (ATF+3 fluid)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or 10W-40 in colder climates)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent antifreeze/coolant (typically green ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent
Common Problems 4.0L:
Cracked cylinder heads (later years, less common in '95), oil filter housing leaks, rear main seal leaks, distributor gear wear.
Common Problems General:
Rust (especially on rocker panels, quarter panels, and floor pans), aging rubber suspension components, worn leaf springs, potential for fuel pump failure.
Oil Filter Example:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A (Note: verify fitment for specific engine)
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's heritage is rooted in rugged, go-anywhere capability, established with the Willys MB during WWII.
Xj Introduction:
Introduced in 1984, the XJ was a radical departure for Jeep with its unibody construction, a first for an SUV.
1995 Updates:
The 1995 model year saw minor interior and exterior refinements, including updated airbag systems and revised dashboard layout.
Production Period:
1984 - 2001
Key Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
