Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-Road Vehicle
Target Demographic:
Enthusiasts seeking ruggedness, off-road capability, and utility.
Competitors 1999:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder
Body On Frame:
Yes (Industry standard for robust off-road performance)
Solid Axles:
Yes (Front and Rear, contributing to articulation and durability)
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its off-road prowess, especially with 4WD systems.
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of vehicle repair and maintenance for the specified model year.
Detail Level:
Provides in-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians.
Engine:
2.5L (150 CID) Inline-4 "AMC 150" Engine
Transmission:
42RLE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transfer Case:
Selec-Trac NV242 Command-Trac NV231
Drivetrain:
Front and Rear Axles (Dana 30 Front, Dana 35 Rear)
Suspension:
Front Leaf Spring Solid Axle, Rear Leaf Spring Solid Axle
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (with ABS option)
Steering:
Power Steering System
Electrical:
Starting and Charging System
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Pump, Lines, and Injectors
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Fan Clutch
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Carpeting
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Wheels Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, lug nut torque.
Engine Cooling System:
Radiator, fan clutch, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and heater core.
Exhaust System Components:
Exhaust manifold(s), catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe.
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, etc.)
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures for Common Problems
Repair:
Step-by-Step Repair Instructions for All Major Systems
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed Disassembly and Reassembly Procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications for Critical Fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive Electrical Wiring Diagrams
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Explanations
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment.
Lubrication:
Chassis lubrication points and intervals.
Chassis Alignment:
Specifications for front and rear axle alignment, caster, camber, and toe-in.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (5 x 114.3 mm)
Tire Size Recommendations:
Common sizes include P225/75R15, P235/75R15, and P235/70R16 (check owner's manual for specific trim and options).
Depth:
Comprehensive Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuilding, Suspension Upgrades, Electrical System Diagnosis, Body Repair
Engine Management:
Detailed explanation of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) operation, sensor functions, and diagnostic procedures.
Fuel Injection Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting and repair procedures for the fuel injection system, including injector testing and fuel pressure checks.
Brake System Repair:
Detailed instructions for brake pad replacement, caliper service, drum brake adjustment, and ABS system troubleshooting.
Suspension And Steering Overhaul:
Comprehensive guidance on servicing and replacing steering and suspension components, including alignment adjustments.
HVAC System Service:
Diagnosing and repairing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Body And Interior Repair:
Procedures for body panel repair, door and liftgate adjustments, and interior trim removal and installation.
Diagnostics:
Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Code:
4.0L "Power Tech" (AMC 242)
Configuration:
Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Horsepower Hp:
190 @ 4400 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
225 @ 3200 RPM
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) style ignition (later models)
Engine Code:
2.5L (AMC 150)
Configuration:
Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Horsepower Hp:
125 @ 4800 RPM
Torque Lb Ft:
150 @ 3600 RPM
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Type 4.0L:
API SN/SP 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Recommended
Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Oil Type 2.5L:
API SN/SP 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil Recommended
Oil Capacity 2.5L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Synthetic oil can extend this.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), check condition.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km), check condition.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON ATF
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler material number 68045620AA) or equivalent for NV242; ATF+3 for NV231 (check manual for exact spec).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) and distilled water.
Common Problems:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L models, though less common in later XJs), oil filter adapter housing leaks, rear main seal leaks, dashboard cracking, sway bar end link wear, rear main bearing cap walk (4.0L).
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical issues, often related to grounds, wiring harness degradation, or failing sensors.
Cooling System Issues:
Water pump failure, radiator leaks, and thermostat housing leaks can occur with age.
Suspension Wear:
Leaf spring sag, worn bushings, and track bar wear are common due to off-road use and age.