Segment:
Compact / Off-Road SUV
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, off-roaders, owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair knowledge.
Key Competitors 2004:
Toyota Tacoma (4x4 variants), Nissan Xterra, Ford Bronco (prior generations), Suzuki Vitara.
Design Philosophy:
Body-on-frame construction, solid front and rear axles, removable tops (soft/hard), robust off-road capability.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform complex maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle lifespan.
Scope:
Provides the same level of detail as the official dealership service manuals.
Primary Coverage:
North America
Engine Coverage:
3.7L V6, 4.0L Inline-6
Transmission Coverage:
NV3550 (5-Speed Manual), NV241OR (Command-Trac 4WD Transfer Case), 42RLE (4-Speed Automatic)
Drivetrain Coverage:
Dana 30 front axle, Dana 35 rear axle (standard, optional Dana 44 rear)
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Additional Type:
Includes Maintenance Schedule & Troubleshooting Guide
Primary Language:
English
Searchable:
Yes, text-searchable PDF
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel and exhaust systems, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging system, engine control systems (PCM).
Drivetrain:
Clutch system, manual transmission (NV3550), automatic transmission (42RLE), transfer case (NV241OR), driveshafts, front axle (Dana 30), rear axle (Dana 35/44).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (leaf springs), shock absorbers, steering system (power steering pump, steering gear), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes all around), anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped, parking brake system, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body electrical systems, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, powertrain control module (PCM), anti-theft system.
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body sealant and vibration damping.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication, tire rotation, inspection points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical diagnostic procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, disassembly and reassembly procedures, torque specifications, specifications and tolerances.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, scan tool usage, component testing, electrical circuit testing, pressure testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Detail Level:
Includes detailed schematics, exploded views, component locations, specifications, and procedures for complete overhauls.
Type:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
42RLE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transfer Case:
NV241OR (Command-Trac 2-speed part-time 4WD system)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NV241OR Transfer Case Lubricant (MS-9009) or equivalent SAE 75W-80 GL-4
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs (if equipped).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-5 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0L: 5 quarts (4.7L), 3.7L: 5.5 quarts (5.2L)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions)
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Wear Items:
Water pump, radiator, U-joints, clutch components (manual), exhaust system rust, frame rust (especially in northern climates), engine mounts.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can occur due to age and exposure, particularly with wiring harnesses, grounds, and the instrument cluster.
Transmission Issues:
NV3550 synchro wear, 42RLE solenoid pack failures.
Off Road Acclaim:
Consistently recognized by off-road publications and enthusiasts for its capability and customization potential.
Consumer Reports Typical Rating:
Variable, often scoring average to above average in predicted reliability depending on specific model year and powertrain.
Manual Certification:
Not applicable (third-party product based on factory data)