🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee (XJ)

Year:

1986

Product Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for Jeep XJ enthusiasts and DIY mechanics seeking authoritative repair guidance.

Differentiation:

Goes beyond basic maintenance, offering in-depth factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures.

Key Benefit:

Empowers owners to perform a wide range of repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs and ensuring quality.

Technical Accuracy:

Based on original manufacturer specifications and procedures.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage:

Comprehensive All Service & Repair

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) Reproduction

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, inspection, assembly, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants.

Engine Performance:

Tuning, diagnosis, and specifications for optimal engine operation.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection, carburetion (if applicable), fuel pumps, lines, and tanks.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan assembly repair and maintenance.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, and related diagnostics.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emission control components.

Transmission Manual:

Service and overhaul procedures for manual transmissions (e.g., AX-4, AX-5).

Transmission Automatic:

Service and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., AW-4).

Drivetrain:

Transfer case, drive shafts, U-joints, differentials (Dana 30 front, Dana 35 rear).

Suspension Front:

Leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bar.

Suspension Rear:

Leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering gear, tie rods, steering column.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, hydraulic system.

Electrical System Base:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter).

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, turn signals.

Electrical System Instruments:

Instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights.

Electrical System Accessories:

Wipers, horn, power windows/locks (if equipped).

Body Interior:

Seat removal, trim panels, dashboard disassembly.

Body Exterior:

Body panel replacement, door mechanisms, tailgate, glass.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (blower motor, heater core, A/C components).

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, fluid checks and flushes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Major Overhauls:

Complete engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, differential rebuild procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Body Repair:

Dent repair, panel alignment, rust prevention and repair.

Suspension And Steering Service:

Alignment procedures, bearing replacement, shock/strut installation.

Brake Service:

Pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing, hydraulic system bleeding.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Depth Level:

Expert Level: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete vehicle teardown and reassembly.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Extensive use of diagrams, schematics, and step-by-step illustrations.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all circuits.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchable Text:

Yes, text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L AMC 150 I4, 4.0L AMC 242 I6

2.5L I4 Horsepower:

Approx. 105 hp @ 4600 rpm

2.5L I4 Torque:

Approx. 130 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

4.0L I6 Horsepower:

Approx. 177 hp @ 4700 rpm

4.0L I6 Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for both engines.

Required Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Option:

4-speed manual (e.g., Peugeot BA-10/5 for some export models, AX-4/AX-5 for later models, though 1986 might have had AX-4 as primary manual for US).

Automatic Transmission Option:

3-speed automatic (e.g., Chrysler 727 Torqueflite) or 4-speed automatic (e.g., AW-4 for later models).

Transfer Case:

Command-Trac NV231 (part-time, 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low) or Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) depending on trim.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.8 inches (2764 mm)

Length:

164.4 inches (4176 mm)

Width:

69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3000-3300 lbs (1360-1497 kg) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1986:

No specific NHTSA ratings widely published for 1986 models in the modern format. Emphasis on ruggedness and off-road capability.

Braking System:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist standard.

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point shoulder belts, rear lap belts.

Body Structure:

Unibody construction designed for durability and weight reduction.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Basic speaker configurations.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not typically available on 1986 models.

Connectivity Features:

None (pre-modern connectivity era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for automatic transmissions.

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Engine Oil Type:

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

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Chrysler ATF+3 or equivalent (often referred to as Dexron III compatible).

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, Mopar Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent.

Common Problems:

Rear main seal leaks (4.0L), valve cover gasket leaks, cooling system issues (radiator, water pump), leaf spring sag, potential for rust on body and frame components, transfer case chain stretch (NV231), aging electrical connectors.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Building on the Jeep reputation for off-road prowess and ruggedness.

Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee was revolutionary for its time, introducing the unibody SUV concept, offering a more refined and lighter alternative to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

1986 Updates:

1986 saw refinements in engine options and trim levels, solidifying its position in the growing SUV market. Introduction of the 4.0L inline-six engine was a significant development for subsequent years, but the 1986 model primarily featured the 2.5L I4 and a 2.8L V6 (GM-sourced) in earlier production, transitioning to the AMC 4.0L later.

Production Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Awards:

While specific awards for the 1986 model are not widely documented, the XJ platform was highly regarded for its innovation and capability, contributing to Jeep's strong market presence.