Market Position:
The YJ Wrangler represented Jeep's evolution from the CJ line, introducing modern amenities while retaining its core off-road DNA. It was a highly capable and iconic compact SUV popular for recreation and everyday use.
Primary Competitors:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner
Key Features:
Leaf spring suspension, iconic Jeep grille, solid front axle (early models), convertible options, robust off-road capability
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving significant costs associated with dealership or independent shop labor. Facilitates proactive maintenance and deeper understanding of vehicle systems.
Model Years Covered:
1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Engine Variants Covered:
2.5L AMC I4 (75hp, 121 lb-ft), 4.2L AMC I6 (112hp, 203 lb-ft), 4.0L AMC I6 (182hp, 220 lb-ft)
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory-Authorized Repair Service Manual
Included Manuals:
Likely includes mechanical, electrical, body, and diagnostics
Format:
Print (Original Factory Manual or High-Quality Reprint)
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor & fuel injection), ignition system, emission control systems
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmissions (AX-4, AX-5), Automatic transmissions (AW-4), Transfer cases (NP-231), Driveshafts, Axles (Dana 30 front, Dana 35 rear)
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear leaf spring suspension, steering system components (steering box, linkages), power steering system
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, body control modules (where applicable)
Body Chassis:
Body panels, frame, doors, hood, windshield, convertible top, interior trim, seats
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, exhaust system repair, radiator replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for fuel injected models, component testing procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair)
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using basic hand tools, specialized engine tools, and diagnostic testers for fuel-injected models
Base Engine:
2.5L AMC 150 I4
Base Engine Horsepower:
75 hp @ 3200 rpm (1987-1990), 117 hp @ 4800 rpm (1991-1995)
Base Engine Torque:
121 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (1987-1990), 135 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (1991-1995)
Optional Engine 1:
4.2L AMC 258 I6
Optional Engine 1 Horsepower:
112 hp @ 3200 rpm
Optional Engine 1 Torque:
203 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Optional Engine 2:
4.0L AMC 242 I6
Optional Engine 2 Horsepower:
182 hp @ 4750 rpm (1991+)
Optional Engine 2 Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (1991+)
Fuel System Type Early:
Carbureted (2bbl Carter YF or similar)
Fuel System Type Late:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection) for 4.0L and later 2.5L
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual (Peugeot/Citroën AX-4, later Aisin-Warner AX-5)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed Automatic (Chrysler Torqueflite A999), 4-speed Automatic (Aisin-Warner AW-4, primarily with 4.0L)
Transfer Case Standard:
New Process NP-231 (Command-Trac 2-speed part-time 4WD)
Transfer Case Optional:
New Process NP-207 (early models, less common)
Axle Ratios Common:
3.73:1, 4.10:1 (depending on engine and transmission option)
Infotainment Features Early:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player
Infotainment Features Late:
Upgraded stereo systems, optional CD player
Driver Assistance Features:
None (This era predates widespread electronic driver assistance systems)
Connectivity Features:
None (No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles for automatic, as needed for manual (check for leaks)
Coolant Change:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Spec I4:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Spec I6:
API Service SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent, check manual for specific type like Dexron III for earlier models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-140 gear oil
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (green type)
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), overheating with the 4.2L I6, exhaust manifold cracks on 4.0L, distributor issues
Common Issues Drivetrain:
Clutch wear, axle seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch (NP-231), worn U-joints
Common Issues Suspension:
Leaf spring sag, worn bushings, shock absorber failure
Common Issues Electrical:
Corroded grounds, faulty fuel pumps (late models), interior wiring harness issues
Common Issues Body:
Rust (fender flares, floor pans, rocker panels), door hinge wear, convertible top leaks
Jeep Heritage:
Jeep has a long and storied history rooted in World War II military vehicles, evolving into a brand synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness.
Yj Introduction:
The YJ generation replaced the CJ-7 in 1987. It was a significant departure with a modernized chassis, coil springs for the front suspension (briefly, then reverted to leaf springs), and distinctive square headlights.
Yj Distinguishing Feature:
The introduction of rectangular headlights, a controversial change from the CJ's round headlights.
Yj Key Updates:
1991 saw the introduction of the more powerful 4.0L I6 engine and a revised interior. Leaf springs were standard throughout the YJ run, unlike some early CJ generations. Coil springs were only present on a very limited run of early 1987 models, quickly replaced by leaf springs.
Production Period:
1987-1995
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
