🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Models Covered:

Wrangler (TJ), Cherokee (XJ), Grand Cherokee (WJ)

Model Years:

1997, 1998, 1999

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Essential reference for owners, mechanics, and parts suppliers of 1997-1999 Jeep Wrangler (TJ), Cherokee (XJ), and Grand Cherokee (WJ) models seeking accurate part identification and sourcing.

Value Proposition:

Provides direct access to OEM part numbers and detailed visual breakdowns, crucial for maintaining the integrity and functionality of these iconic Jeep vehicles, often superior to generic aftermarket catalogs.

Key Features:

Extensive coverage across three popular Jeep models, detailed exploded views for component recognition, complete part number listings, comprehensive nature for all vehicle systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Parts catalog with exploded views and part numbers for the entire vehicle, including mechanical, electrical, and body components.

Page Count:

947

Manual Type:

Parts Catalog / Parts Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain (Transfer Case, Axles, Driveshafts), Transmission, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (Ignition, Lighting, Gauges, Accessories), HVAC System, Body Components (Interior and Exterior), Chassis, Wheels and Tires, Fasteners.

Procedures:

Identification of correct replacement parts, assembly and disassembly reference for component sourcing, part number lookup for ordering.

Depth:

Comprehensive OEM part identification and exploded view diagrams, enabling precise part selection for repair, restoration, and maintenance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for digital viewing and printing of diagrams and part numbers.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

4.0L Inline-6 (e.g., AMC 242)

Engine Code:

4.0L Inline-6 (AMC 242); 2.5L Inline-4 (AMC 150)

Engine Code:

4.0L Inline-6 (AMC 242); 4.7L V8 (PowerTech)

Horsepower:

181 hp @ 4,600 rpm (4.0L)

Torque:

222 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (4.0L)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4,600 rpm (4.0L); 125 hp @ 4,800 rpm (2.5L)

Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (4.0L); 150 lb-ft @ 2,400 rpm (2.5L)

Horsepower:

195 hp @ 4,600 rpm (4.0L); 235 hp @ 4,700 rpm (4.7L V8)

Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (4.0L); 295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (4.7L V8)

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (NV3550)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (42RLE / AW4)

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (AX-15); 4-Speed Automatic (AW4)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (AW4)

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE / 44RE)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Automatic (W5A580) - later models, but 4-speed prevalent in 97-99 range.

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac (NV231/NV241), Selec-Trac (NV242), NP207 (early XJ)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

93.4 inches

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches

Wheelbase:

116.0 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,000 - 3,400 lbs

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,700 lbs

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,200 - 4,700 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not comprehensively rated by modern NHTSA standards for this era; focus on structural integrity for off-road use.

Braking System:

Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard), Front/Rear Disc (optional/higher trims), Optional ABS.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags standard on most models.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette or CD player, manual climate controls.

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM radio, optional cassette/CD player, manual or optional automatic climate control, available Infinity Gold sound system.

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM/Cassette/CD players, optional premium Infinity audio, available navigation system (late 1999 models), dual-zone climate control (optional).

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features by modern standards. ABS available on some models.

Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific owner's manual for exact recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on transmission type and usage (off-roading may necessitate more frequent changes).

Coolant Flush:

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

Engine Oil 4.0L:

API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 10W-30 (preferred) or 5W-30. Capacity: 5.0 US quarts (with filter).

Engine Oil 4.7L V8:

API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6, SAE 5W-30. Capacity: 6.0 US quarts (with filter).

Transmission Fluid Aw4/42Rle:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar).

Transmission Fluid 45Rfe/44Re:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar).

Transfer Case Fluid:

ATF+3/ATF+4 or specific NP231/242 spec (e.g., Dexron II/III for some).

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) 50/50 mix. Capacity varies by model.

Wrangler Tj:

Cracked cylinder heads (4.0L), death wobble (suspension/steering components), rust in floor pans and rocker panels, heater core leaks.

Cherokee Xj:

Rust (unibody rails, rear quarter panels, rocker panels), cracked cylinder heads (4.0L), worn front axle universal joints, aging interior plastics, cooling system issues (radiator, water pump).

Grand Cherokee Wj:

Heated seat element failure, transmission coolant leaks, electrical gremlins, tailgate struts, interior trim wear, 4.0L head gasket issues (less common than TJ but possible).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep, with roots tracing back to WWII, is synonymous with off-road capability and rugged utility.

Tj Generation:

Introduced in 1997, the TJ represented a significant redesign over the YJ, notably returning to round headlights and adopting coil spring suspension (Quadra-Coil) for improved ride and articulation.

Xj Generation:

The XJ, introduced in 1984, pioneered the compact SUV segment with its unibody construction. The 1997 refresh brought updated exterior styling, a revised interior, and improved safety features, making it a highly regarded off-roader in its final years.

Wj Generation:

The WJ, launched for the 1999 model year (with the 1997/98 models being the previous ZJ generation), marked Jeep's entry into the luxury SUV market, featuring a more refined interior, independent front suspension (on some models), and optional V8 engines.

Production Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions Wrangler Tj:

Consistently recognized for off-road prowess and iconic design. Popular among enthusiast publications for its capability.

Recognitions Cherokee Xj:

Considered a benchmark in the compact SUV segment for its durability, off-road capability, and longevity. Frequently cited in 'best used SUV' lists.

Recognitions Grand Cherokee Wj:

Praised for blending luxury and off-road capability. Competed effectively against luxury SUVs of its era.