Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV, highly capable off-road vehicle.
Jeep Heritage:
Continues Jeep's legacy of ruggedness and off-road prowess in a more compact and daily-drivable package.
Key Competitors:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner.
Unibody Construction:
Pioneering unibody construction in its class, contributing to lighter weight and better on-road manners compared to body-on-frame SUVs.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its off-road capabilities, featuring robust four-wheel-drive systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac) and good ground clearance.
Versatility:
Offers a blend of utility, off-road capability, and daily driver comfort.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carbureted and early EFI), exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting and charging system, sensors, ECU operation, wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (e.g., AX-4, AX-5), Automatic transmission (e.g., AW-4, TF-999) overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axles (Dana 30, AMC 20), transfer case (e.g., NP228, NP229), driveshafts, U-joints, CV joints (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front leaf spring (early XJ), coil spring suspension (later XJ), rear leaf spring suspension, shocks, bushings, steering linkage.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake system, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering box, tie rods, drag link, steering column.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, rust repair, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable).
Electrical System:
Lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, fuse box, relays.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnostics and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon problems across all major systems.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, differentials, and other major components.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Tracing electrical faults, testing sensors and actuators, using wiring diagrams.
Body Repair:
Dent removal, rust treatment, panel alignment, glass replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including factory specifications and procedures.
Engine Code 1:
4.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (AMC 4.0L 'High Output')
Displacement 1:
3960 cc (242 cubic inches)
Horsepower 1:
Approximately 173 hp @ 4700 rpm (for 1987 onward, 1986 might have slightly lower output or different tune)
Torque 1:
Approximately 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (for 1987 onward, 1986 might have slightly lower output or different tune)
Engine Code 2:
2.5L Inline 4-Cylinder (AMC 'Tech IV')
Displacement 2:
2468 cc (150 cubic inches)
Horsepower 2:
Approximately 105 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque 2:
Approximately 132 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Fuel Delivery 1:
Fuel Injection (EFI) for 4.0L. Carburetor (e.g., Motorcraft 2150 or similar) potentially for 2.5L in early models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Compression Ratio 4.0:
8.8:1 (typical for this engine family)
Bore Stroke 4.0:
4.00 in x 3.88 in
Compression Ratio 2.5:
8.8:1 (typical for this engine)
Bore Stroke 2.5:
3.88 in x 3.25 in
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual (e.g., AX-5, AX-4)
Transmission Type Opt:
3-Speed Automatic (e.g., TF-999) or 4-Speed Automatic (AW-4, with overdrive) depending on engine and drivetrain configuration.
Transfer Case Options:
Command-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-Time) or Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Full-Time/Part-Time).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific SAE grade (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5 or 80W-90 GL-5).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent (e.g., Mopar ATF+4 is often backward compatible).
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
166.2 inches (4221 mm)
Width:
69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,000-3,500 lbs (varies with engine and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,700-5,000 lbs (varies)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approximately 32.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approximately 71.0 cubic feet
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for precise recommendation.
Transmission Fluid Interval Auto:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or as specified by usage type (severe vs. normal).
Transmission Fluid Interval Manual:
Inspect periodically, change every 50,000-100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement 4.0:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is common for both engines, but consult manual for exact recommendation and API service rating (e.g., SF or SG).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (green) with proper water mix (50/50).
Engine 4.0:
Cracked cylinder heads (later years, less common in '86 but possible), camshaft wear, oil filter adapter housing leaks.
Engine 2.5:
Less power, potential oil consumption, valve cover gasket leaks.
Electrical:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, failing grounds, HVAC blower motor issues.
Suspension:
Worn bushings, leaf spring sag, shock absorber fatigue.
Rust:
Common issue in certain climates, particularly on floor pans, rocker panels, and wheel wells.
Jeep Legacy:
Descended from the Willys MB Jeep, Jeep has a long-standing reputation for 4x4 capability and durability.
Design Philosophy:
Introduced as a more modern, compact, and comfortable alternative to the CJ-7, while retaining Jeep's core off-road DNA.
1986 Updates:
Minor styling tweaks, potential refinement of engine options and interior features over earlier models. Introduction of 4.0L 'High Output' was around 1987.
Production Period:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.