Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and Jeep enthusiasts undertaking repairs, maintenance, or restoration of the 1987 Cherokee (XJ) and Wrangler (YJ).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the same in-depth information as dealership-level service manuals, offering a cost-effective and readily accessible solution compared to traditional print manuals or subscription services.
Content Organization:
Features a numbered table of contents for quick information retrieval, detailed sub-steps for complex procedures, and notes/cautions/warnings for critical steps.
Visual Aids:
Includes detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, and enlarged inset diagrams to clarify repair procedures and component identification.
Searchability:
PDF format allows for text searching, enhancing efficiency in locating specific information.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and refurbishment for the 1987 Jeep Cherokee (XJ) and Jeep Wrangler (YJ).
Estimated Page Count:
N/A (Digital PDF, dynamic page count based on display)
Manual Classification:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Mechanical Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual & automatic), driveline (transfer case, axles, driveshafts), steering system, suspension system, brake system.
Electrical Systems:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), HVAC controls, diagnostic systems, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, chassis components, frame, bumpers, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, seats, safety restraints.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, chassis lubrication, belt and hose inspection/replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics, using diagnostic tools (where applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation of all major vehicle systems.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major mechanical assemblies.
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance for restoring components and the vehicle to original or improved condition.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete mechanical rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Diagnostic Tools Coverage:
Includes information on diagnostic procedures and potential use of factory or aftermarket diagnostic equipment where relevant for the era.
Printability:
Fully printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital Document)
Digital Medium:
N/A (Digital Document)
Software Requirements:
Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer), WinRAR (or compatible file decompression utility).
Operating System Compatibility:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and macOS.
Download Type:
Instant Download
Engine Options 1987:
2.5L AMC 150 I4 (150ci), 4.2L AMC 258 I6 (258ci), 4.0L AMC 242 I6 (242ci - introduced mid-year for Cherokee XJ).
Engine Code 2 5L:
AMC 150
Engine Code 4 2L:
AMC 258
Engine Code 4 0L:
AMC 242
Horsepower 2 5L:
Approx. 112 hp @ 4500 rpm
Torque 2 5L:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Horsepower 4 2L:
Approx. 112 hp @ 3200 rpm
Torque 4 2L:
Approx. 210 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Horsepower 4 0L:
Approx. 177 hp @ 4700 rpm
Torque 4 0L:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for all 1987 engines.
Fuel Type Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline.
Transmission Options 1987:
4-speed manual (e.g., AX-4) and 5-speed manual (e.g., BA-10/5) were common. Automatic transmission: 3-speed TF-999/AW-4 (4-speed automatic for 4.0L Cherokee).
Transmission Variant 4 0L Xj:
Selectable 4-speed automatic (AW-4) for 4.0L Cherokee XJ models.
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-Time) NP231, Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Full-Time/Part-Time) NP228/229 for Cherokee XJ; NP207 for Wrangler YJ.
Wheelbase Xj:
Approx. 101.4 inches (Cherokee XJ)
Wheelbase Yj:
Approx. 93.4 inches (Wrangler YJ)
Curb Weight Range:
Varies significantly by model, engine, and drivetrain, typically ranging from ~3000 lbs to ~3600 lbs.
NHTSA Ratings 1987:
Specific NHTSA crash test ratings for 1987 models are not readily available in standard databases; focus on system checks and preventative maintenance.
Braking System Type:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional front/rear discs available on some higher trims or later models, but predominantly drums for 1987.
Seat Belts:
Standard seat belts; shoulder belts and possibly airbags were not standard in 1987.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles, depending on coolant type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Intervals vary: Manual transmissions typically around 30,000-60,000 miles. Automatic transmissions around 30,000 miles or as per manual recommendations.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH service classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Check specific engine requirements.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/100,000 Mile Formula, or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 depending on specific transmission model.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon) for automatic transmissions, depending on specific transmission unit.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III ATF).
Common Engine Issues:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 4.0L), oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), ignition coil failure, cooling system leaks (radiator, water pump).
Common Transmission Issues:
Leaking seals, worn clutch components (manual), torque converter issues (automatic), internal wear on older units.
Common Chassis Issues:
Leaf spring fatigue, worn bushings, rust in common areas (fender wells, rocker panels, frame rails), ball joint wear (if applicable to specific models).
Common Electrical Issues:
Faulty sensors (crankshaft, camshaft, TPS), aging wiring harnesses, corroded grounds, instrument cluster failures, alternator/starter issues.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep, a brand with deep roots in military vehicles and off-road capability, established a strong reputation for ruggedness and durability.
Cherokee Xj Evolution:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was a revolutionary unibody SUV that pioneered the compact SUV segment. The 1987 model year saw significant updates, including the introduction of the legendary 4.0L inline-six engine for the Cherokee.
Wrangler Yj Evolution:
The YJ Wrangler, introduced in 1987, replaced the CJ series. It featured a new leaf-spring suspension and the distinctive square headlights, a departure from the CJ's round headlights.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Toledo, Ohio, USA.
