🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Model Code:

ZJ

Year:

1997

Vin Prefix:

1J4...

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ represented a refinement of Jeep's foray into the luxury SUV market. It competed against vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, and Toyota 4Runner, offering a blend of off-road capability with on-road comfort and luxury. The ZJ generation was instrumental in establishing the Grand Cherokee as a dominant player in the mid-size SUV segment.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1997 ZJ Grand Cherokee differentiated itself with its available V8 engine, more refined interior than many competitors, and the Jeep brand's inherent off-road prowess. It offered a more car-like driving experience than traditional Jeep models while retaining significant capability. The parts list is crucial for maintaining these complex systems and ensuring originality.

Key Features:

Available Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Coil suspension systems, robust engine options, comfortable and well-appointed interior, substantial towing capacity, and the iconic Jeep styling and capability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive parts listing for the 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ model. Covers all major vehicle systems and components including engine, drivetrain, chassis, body, interior, and electrical systems.

Page Count:

Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for a parts list catalog of this era and scope).

Manual Type:

Parts List Catalog / Parts Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Purpose:

Primarily for identifying correct replacement parts for repairs, restorations, and maintenance. Essential for dealerships, repair shops, and dedicated enthusiasts.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (including 4.0L I6 and 5.2L V8 options), Transmission (42RE, 44RE, NV242, NV247), Transfer Case, Front Axle (Dana 30), Rear Axle (Dana 35, Dana 44), Brakes (ABS options), Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, HVAC, Body Exterior Panels, Body Interior Trim, Electrical System (including lighting, wiring harnesses, and accessories), Wheels and Tires, Safety Restraint Systems.

Procedures Included:

Identification of genuine Mopar part numbers, exploded views of component assemblies, cross-referencing of interchangeable parts, identification of fasteners and hardware, and basic component breakdown for parts replacement.

Technical Depth:

Detailed listing of all factory-specified parts for the 1997 model year ZJ Grand Cherokee. Essential for accurate parts ordering, inventory management, and restoration projects. Includes part numbers, quantities, and illustrations for assembly identification.

Specific Part Identification:

The manual provides specific Mopar part numbers for thousands of components, including: Engine mounts (e.g., 53004721 for front), fuel injectors (e.g., 53030778 for 4.0L), brake pads (e.g., 52018583), alternator part numbers (e.g., 56005034), and various body trim pieces and fasteners.

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Includes detailed exploded view diagrams of major assemblies, aiding in the identification of correct parts and their placement within the vehicle's systems.

Cross Referencing:

Facilitates cross-referencing of part numbers across different production dates or minor revisions within the 1997 model year, and sometimes between related models.

Body And Interior Parts:

Covers a wide array of body panels, bumpers, grilles, headlights, taillights, door handles, mirrors, interior trim pieces (dashboards, door panels, seating components), and related hardware.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document. Assumed quality from a digital download of an official or de facto standard parts catalog.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

PDF format allows for text searching of part numbers, component descriptions, and system names, greatly enhancing usability compared to a printed index.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

4.0 L

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder (I6)

Engine 1 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves

Engine 1 Power:

Approx. 185 hp @ 4700 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

5.2 L

Engine 2 Configuration:

V8

Engine 2 Valvetrain:

Overhead Valve (OHV), 16 valves

Engine 2 Power:

Approx. 220 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Engine Block Material:

Cast Iron (both engines)

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum (4.0L I6), Cast Iron (5.2L V8)

Engine Maintenance Parts:

Listings for spark plugs (e.g., Champion Copper Plus), air filters (e.g., Mopar-equivalent part numbers), oil filters (e.g., Mopar equivalent), and serpentine belts (e.g., 53020560 for 4.0L).

Cylinder Head Bolt Torque 4 0L:

Refer to specific repair manual for sequence and torque values (critical for proper sealing).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (42RE)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (44RE - typically with 5.2L V8)

Transfer Case Option 1:

Selec-Trac (NV242 - full-time 4WD with 2WD mode)

Transfer Case Option 2:

Quadra-Trac II (NV247 - full-time 4WD with driver-selectable 4-HI and 4-LO)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+3 or equivalent (check specific vehicle build).

Transmission Maintenance Parts:

Includes parts for rebuilds such as clutch pack kits, bands, seals, and filter/gasket sets for the 42RE and 44RE transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.8 inches

Width:

Approx. 71.0 inches

Height:

Approx. 63.5 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.5 inches

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3,800 lbs (4.0L, 2WD)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4,400 lbs (5.2L V8, 4WD)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (with optional towing package)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 34.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 67.0 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Frontal Rating:

4 stars (1997 model year specifics may vary, generally good for the era)

NHTSA Passenger Frontal Rating:

4 stars (1997 model year specifics may vary, generally good for the era)

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for all four wheels.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and passenger airbags, crumple zones, side-impact door beams, seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Available premium Infinity Gold sound system with amplifier.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on ABS as an option. Cruise control was standard on most trims.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB ports were available. Connectivity was limited to auxiliary input for aftermarket audio devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (under normal to severe driving conditions).

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent (50/50 mixture with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III

Known Issues:

Common issues include cracked cylinder heads (especially on early 4.0L engines), failing water pumps, radiator leaks, transmission solenoid issues (42RE/44RE), distributorless ignition system (DIS) coil pack failures, and potential for rust on the unibody structure.

Part Replacement Considerations:

The parts list is critical for identifying the correct part numbers for known wear items and potential failure points to ensure proper repair and longevity.

Air Filter Part Number 4 0L:

Example: 53015260

Oil Filter Part Number Universal:

Example: Mopar MO-090 or equivalent from aftermarket suppliers.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep has a storied history rooted in military vehicles, evolving into iconic civilian SUVs known for their go-anywhere capability. The Grand Cherokee was Jeep's first attempt at a premium SUV, blending its off-road DNA with luxury and comfort.

Model Evolution:

The ZJ generation (1993-1998) was a significant step for Jeep. It introduced a unibody construction, a more sophisticated interior, and a focus on on-road refinement while retaining significant off-road capability. The 1997 model year saw minor updates, including improved aerodynamics and interior features.

Production Location:

Detroit, Michigan, USA (Jefferson North Assembly Plant)

Production Years:

1993-1998 (ZJ generation)

Model Trims:

Sport, SE, Laredo, and Limited trims were available, each with different feature packages and interior appointments.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The ZJ Grand Cherokee received numerous accolades during its production run for its combination of luxury, capability, and refinement. It was frequently cited in automotive publications as a leader in the burgeoning SUV market.

Ratings:

Consistently rated well by automotive journalists for its comfortable ride and powerful engine options, especially the 5.2L V8.