Market Segment:
Full-size SUV, capable off-road and family utility
Competitors 1979:
Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer K5, Dodge Ramcharger
Body Styles:
Two-door wagon (covered by this manual)
Powertrain Options:
Robust V8 engines, rugged 4x4 systems
Off Road Capability:
Renowned Jeep off-road prowess, durable chassis
Value:
Essential resource for owners and technicians performing maintenance, repair, and restoration
Engine Service:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, specifications for all engines
Transmission Service:
Automatic and manual transmission diagnosis, repair, fluid service, overhaul
Drivetrain Service:
Four-wheel drive systems, transfer cases, differentials, axles, driveshafts
Suspension Service:
Front and rear suspension, springs, shock absorbers, linkages, alignment
Steering Service:
Steering gear, power steering system, steering linkage
Brake Service:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), parking brake, hydraulic system, ABS (if applicable)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, sensors
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, carburetor(s) or early injection systems, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, pipes, muffler, catalytic converter (if equipped)
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components and service
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior components, chassis lubrication, structural components
Emission Control:
Emission control systems and components, diagnosis and adjustment
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, tune-ups
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Component Repair Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding and repairing major components (engine, transmission, etc.)
Technical Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for accurate diagnosis and repair
Special Tools:
Identification of required special tools for specific procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level service and repair information
Engine Displacement 1:
360 cubic inches (5.9 L) V8
Engine Type 1:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V8
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 175-195 hp (varies by specific tune and emissions equipment)
Torque 1:
Approx. 280-300 lb-ft (varies)
Engine Displacement 2:
401 cubic inches (6.6 L) V8
Engine Type 2:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V8
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 200-215 hp (varies)
Torque 2:
Approx. 300-330 lb-ft (varies)
Fuel Delivery:
Primarily Carbureted (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet, Carter Thermo-Quad), some early EFI possible on specific models/markets
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Breaker Point Ignition or Electronic Ignition (e.g., GM HEI)
Transmission Type Standard:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., TH400, TH350)
Transmission Type Optional:
Manual Transmission (e.g., 3-speed, 4-speed)
Transfer Case:
Quadra-Trac full-time 4WD system standard on Wide Track, with optional part-time systems
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically Dexron II (check specific vehicle VIN for exact type)
Wheelbase:
109 inches (2769 mm)
Length:
Approx. 179-180 inches (4547-4572 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70-72 inches (1778-1829 mm) (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 62-64 inches (1575-1626 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000-4,500 lbs (1814-2041 kg) (varies significantly with engine and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 5,500-6,000 lbs (2495-2722 kg)
Cargo Volume:
Substantial cargo space, configurable with rear seat folded
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (recommended, refer to manual for exact spec)
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Typically every 24,000-36,000 miles or 24-36 months (check manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Depends on ignition type, typically 10,000-20,000 miles for points, longer for electronic
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended, potentially 5W-30 in very cold climates (verify with manual/oil type used previously)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (green) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Transfer Case Fluid:
Typically ATF Dexron II (for Quadra-Trac)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (viscosity depends on ambient temperature, e.g., 80W-90)
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor tuning issues, aging rubber components (hoses, seals), suspension bushings, exhaust system rust, ignition system components
Drivetrain Wear:
U-joints, differential seals, transfer case chain wear (on some models)
Body Corrosion:
Prone to rust in rocker panels, wheel wells, and tailgate areas due to age and environment
Jeep Legacy:
Long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road capability, and durability
Cherokee Lineage:
The SJ Cherokee was the first full-size Jeep SUV, launched in 1974. This 1979 model represents the initial generation.
Production Era:
1974-1983 (SJ generation)
Manufacturing Location:
United States (typically Toledo, Ohio)
