Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size SUV
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, utility vehicle buyers, families
Key Competitors 1979:
Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer, Dodge Ramcharger
Chassis Design:
Body-on-frame construction
Drivetrain Options:
Robust 4WD systems (Selec-Trac, Quadratrac)
Offroad Capability:
Renowned for off-road prowess and durability
Engine Types:
2.5L I4, 4.2L I6, 5.0L V8, 5.9L V8
Transmission Types:
3-speed Automatic (TorqueFlite), 4-speed Manual (T-150, T-176, SR4)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac 2WD/4WD, Quadratrac Full-Time 4WD
Axle Information:
Dana 30 (Front), Dana 35 (Rear) or AMC 20 (Rear)
Brake System Details:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (with power assist option)
Steering Type:
Power Steering (Recirculating Ball)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks, Lubrication, Spark Plug Service, Belt Adjustments
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Clutch Replacement, Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, component testing procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse and relay identification
Body And Trim Repair:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment, trim piece replacement
HVAC Service:
Evaporator, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant service (where applicable)
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and adjustments for camber, caster, toe
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level
Diagnostics:
Advanced troubleshooting with specific component testing and fault codes (if applicable to the era)
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed engine, transmission, and axle overhaul procedures with torque specifications and clearances
Wiring Diagrams:
Full vehicle electrical system diagrams with component locations
Base Engine:
2.5L (151 cu in) AMC I4
Inline 6:
4.2L (258 cu in) AMC I6
V8 Small Block:
5.0L (304 cu in) AMC V8
V8 Large Block:
5.9L (360 cu in) AMC V8
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 115-175 hp (Varies by engine)
Torque Range:
Approx. 180-280 lb-ft (Varies by engine)
Carburetion:
Single-barrel or two-barrel carburetors (e.g., Rochester, Carter)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommendation 25L 42L:
API SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
Recommendation 50L 59L:
API SF, SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30
Transmission Type:
3-Speed Automatic (TorqueFlite 727 or 904)
Transmission Type Manual:
4-Speed Manual (T-150, T-176, SR4)
Transfer Case Selections:
Selec-Trac (Part-time 2WD/4WD), Quadratrac (Full-time 4WD)
Fluid Spec:
ATF Dexron-II
Fluid Spec:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90)
Wheelbase Short:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Wheelbase Long:
104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 179 inches (4547 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 70 inches (1778 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 63 inches (1600 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 4,200 lbs (1588 - 1905 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,700 - 5,500 lbs (2132 - 2495 kg)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not rated under modern standards; designed for era-specific safety
Braking System Type:
Front disc, rear drum with optional power assist
Seat Belts:
Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear)
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced B-pillars and roof structure (typical for the era)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on usage)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 - 36,000 miles or 2-3 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 20,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol (Green) 50/50 mix with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron-II or manufacturer specific PS fluid
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (rear main seal, valve covers), carburetor issues, exhaust manifold cracks (V8s)
Common Problems Drivetrain:
U-joint wear, axle seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch/wear
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn bushings, shock absorber failure, steering linkage wear
Common Problems Electrical:
Corroded wiring, failing alternator/starter, ignition switch issues
Oil Filter Recommendation:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A (or equivalent)
Air Filter Recommendation 25L:
Wix 42525, Fram CA2960 (or equivalent)
Spark Plug Recommendation I6:
Champion RN12YC or Autolite 64
Jeep Legacy:
Iconic off-road heritage dating back to WWII Willys MB
First Generation Start:
1974 (SJ Grand Wagoneer, Cherokee SJ)
Second Generation Start:
1984 (XJ Cherokee - lighter, unibody, though manual covers SJ)
Assembly Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years Sj Cherokee:
1974-1983
Offroad Recognition:
Consistently ranked highly for off-road capability and durability by enthusiasts and publications of the era.
Consumer Reports Era:
Varied, often noted for ruggedness but sometimes criticized for ride quality and fuel economy compared to car-based SUVs.
Factory Certification:
This manual is the official factory-issued documentation, certified by Jeep (then American Motors Corporation).