Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain or repair their Jeep Cherokee XJ.
Competitors 1994:
Ford Bronco II, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Vehicle Appeal:
Renowned for its ruggedness, off-road capability (even in 2WD), compact size, and reliability.
Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform repairs and maintenance confidently, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carbureted/injected), ignition system, emissions control.
Engine Electrical:
Starter motor, alternator, battery, engine control module (ECM), sensors, wiring diagrams, diagnostic codes.
Transmission:
Manual (AX-5, AX-15) and Automatic (AW4) transmission service, overhaul, diagnostics, clutch, driveline.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering linkage, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical Chassis:
Lighting system, wipers and washers, horn, instrumentation, power windows/locks, door locks, power mirrors, trailer wiring.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, trim, weatherstripping, exterior lighting.
Body Interior:
Seating, upholstery, dashboard, instrument panel, trim panels, HVAC system (heater, A/C), audio system.
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, evaporative emission control system, oxygen sensors, diagnostic procedures.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, tune-up procedures, belt and hose replacement, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problems and solutions, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, torque specifications, alignment procedures, brake bleeding, starter/alternator replacement.
Diagnostics:
OBD-I diagnostic codes, sensor testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing, vacuum testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs to major overhauls and component rebuilding.
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, exploded views, diagrams, wiring schematics, diagnostic procedures, torque specifications.
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline-6 OHV (High Output)
Engine Displacement:
3960 cc (242 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.580 in (98.4 mm x 91.0 mm)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower Rating:
190 hp @ 4750 RPM (approx.)
Torque Rating:
220 lb-ft @ 3250 RPM (approx.)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Electronic Spark Control (ESC)
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostat and fan.
Oil Capacity:
5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Pump Pressure:
31-39 PSI (214-269 kPa)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AW4)
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (AX-15)
Automatic Cooling:
Integrated transmission fluid cooler within the radiator.
Manual Clutch Type:
Dry, single plate, diaphragm spring clutch.
Automatic Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid)
Manual Fluid Type:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF), typically 75W-90 GL-5.
Length:
Approx. 166.9 inches (4239 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 58.7 inches (1491 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 58.5 inches (1486 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 lbs (2041 kg)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not rated by NHTSA for this specific year/configuration in the modern format. Older vehicles did not have standardized ratings.
Braking:
Front ventilated discs, Rear solid drums. Optional ABS on some models.
Steering:
Power-assisted recirculating ball steering.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard for 1994.
Seatbelts:
Front three-point seat belts, rear lap belts.
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with integrated roll cage elements.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical recommendation for this era, consult manual for exact spec).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (automatic transmission, check manual).
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months (or as specified by coolant type).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs) or up to 100,000 miles (if platinum/iridium plugs installed).
Engine Coolant:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads (specifically on 4.0L), radiator leaks, water pump failures, differential leaks, rust issues (especially on body panels and frame rails), worn leaf springs (rear), aging vacuum lines.
Specific Component Concern:
The 1994 4.0L engine is generally robust, but early versions were prone to cracked cylinder heads due to thermal stress. Later models like '94 and beyond are less susceptible but still a potential concern.
Brand Legacy:
Jeep, a division of Chrysler Corporation (at the time), carried a strong legacy of off-road prowess and durability.
Xj Generation:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction, offering a more car-like ride compared to body-on-frame rivals.
1994 Updates:
The 1994 model year saw significant updates, including the introduction of the new interior design, updated dashboard, driver-side airbag, and OBD-II compatibility (though full OBD-II was mandated in 1996, 1994 started the transition).
Production Years:
1984-2001
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA