🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Generation Code:

ZJ/ZG

Model Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

ZJ (North America), ZG (Export Markets)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Mid-size/Full-size Luxury SUV

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for DIY maintenance and repair.

Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.

Body Styles:

4-door SUV

Platform:

ZJ platform, known for its unibody construction and comfortable ride.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair for gasoline and diesel variants

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, and component repair for all gasoline and diesel engines offered in 1998.

Transmission:

Repair and overhaul procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., 42RE, 46RE, 44RE, NV242, NV249 transfer cases).

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle service, differential repair, driveshaft and U-joint maintenance, 4WD system service.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service (discs/drums), ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, shock absorber and spring service.

Steering:

Power steering system maintenance, steering linkage and column repair, steering gear service.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting system, fuses, relays, and diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flush and fill procedures, fan clutch/electric fan service.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure testing, EVAP system service.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipe inspection and replacement, emissions control components.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system service and recharge, heater core replacement, blower motor service, climate control unit diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Door panel removal, seat adjustment, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, body panel repair, bumper service.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement, spark plug replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common driveability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II code interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, live data analysis.

Rebuilds:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including disassembly, inspection, part replacement, and reassembly.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, valve lash adjustments, alignment data.

Wheel Tire Service:

Tire rotation, wheel balancing, wheel bearing replacement, lug nut torque specifications, wheel bolt patterns.

Lighting:

Headlight, taillight, interior lighting bulb replacement and troubleshooting.

Wiper Washer:

Wiper blade replacement, washer pump and nozzle service.

Chassis Lubrication:

Grease points and lubrication schedule for suspension and steering components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Options:

4.0L 'High Output' I6 (PowerTech), 4.7L V8 (PowerTech - typically later models, but possible for late 98), 5.2L V8 (Magnum), 5.9L V8 (Magnum).

Diesel Options:

2.5L VM Motori TD (Turbo Diesel) - primarily for export markets (ZG).

4.0L I6 (Approx.):

Horsepower: 185-190 hp, Torque: 220-235 lb-ft.

5.2L V8 (Approx.):

Horsepower: 220-230 hp, Torque: 295-300 lb-ft.

5.9L V8 (Approx.):

Horsepower: 240-245 hp, Torque: 335-345 lb-ft.

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for gasoline engines.

🔧 Transmission

Automatic Transmissions:

4-speed automatic (e.g., 42RE for I6, 46RE for V8, 44RE for heavier duty V8 applications).

Transfer Cases:

Selec-Trac (NV242), Quadra-Trac (NV249 - full-time 4WD with viscous coupling).

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches

Length:

177.1 inches

Width:

70.5 inches

Height:

66.1 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (varies by engine and drivetrain)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000-6,500 lbs (depending on engine and towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

3 out of 5 stars (as per 1998 standards)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Aftermarket or factory cassette/CD player with AM/FM radio. Optional Infinity Gold sound system.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control options available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

OBD Standard:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for electronic code reading.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

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

Transmission Fluid:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, service/replace fluid and filter every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specifics based on transmission type).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Spark Plugs:

I6: 100,000 miles (long-life plugs), V8: 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to specific plug type).

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most engines. Check manual for specific viscosity by temperature and engine type. API certified oil.

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for later models/conversions). Refer to manual for exact specification for the 42RE/46RE/44RE.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid.

Common Problems:

Cracked cylinder heads (4.0L I6), sagging headliner, death wobble (steering/suspension related), transmission cooler line leaks, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure, radiator leaks, interior electronic gremlins.

பராம பராம:

Regular fluid changes, especially transmission fluid and coolant, are critical for longevity. Inspect the cooling system thoroughly.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing heritage in off-road vehicles and SUVs dating back to WWII.

Zj Generation:

The ZJ generation (1993-1998) represented a significant step in comfort and refinement for the Grand Cherokee, moving towards a more premium SUV segment.

1998 Updates:

Late ZJ models received minor updates, but the core design remained consistent with previous years. Introduction of the 4.7L V8 was slated for the next generation (WJ).

Manufacturing Location:

Detroit, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Editors Choice:

While specific 1998 awards may be harder to pinpoint, the ZJ Grand Cherokee was generally well-received for its blend of comfort, capability, and off-road prowess, often earning praise from automotive publications of the era.