🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Year:

1997

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact SUV, highly regarded for off-road capability and durability.

Key Competitors 1997:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer.

Chassis Design:

Unibody construction, a pioneering feature in its class, offering a better ride and handling than body-on-frame competitors.

4X4 Capability:

Renowned Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4WD systems, coupled with excellent ground clearance and approach/departure angles.

Durability:

Known for its robust construction and reliability, particularly the powertrain.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive factory service repair manual covering all mechanical and electrical systems of the 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (likely softcover or comb-bound)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair for all engine components, including cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, and emissions.

Engine Performance:

Includes engine diagnostics, performance tuning, and troubleshooting for power delivery issues.

Transmission Manual:

Complete repair, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for the manual transmission.

Transmission Automatic:

Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and adjustment procedures for the automatic transmission.

Drivetrain:

Coverage of transfer case operation, front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, CV joints, and driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, repair, and replacement, including springs, shocks, bushings, and control arms.

Steering:

Detailed information on power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (pump, rack, hoses).

Brakes:

Full coverage of brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting, including hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotors, pads, and calipers.

Electrical System:

Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis, and repair for the entire electrical system.

HVAC:

Service and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling.

Body And Frame:

Procedures for body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass replacement, and frame inspection.

Fuel System:

Detailed coverage of fuel pump, injectors, lines, and fuel tank service and diagnosis.

Exhaust System:

Repair and replacement of exhaust components, including catalytic converter and muffler.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan diagnosis and repair.

Emission Control:

Information on emission control devices, diagnosis, and repair for compliance.

Routine Maintenance:

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

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and axles.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Pinpoint electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeter testing, and component resistance/voltage checks.

Brake System Repair:

Pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line bleeding, master cylinder replacement.

Suspension Alignment:

Procedures for checking and adjusting wheel alignment angles.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant recharging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), leak detection.

Body Panel Replacement:

Instructions for removing and installing doors, fenders, hoods, and bumpers.

Depth Level:

Expert Level - Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.

Diagnostic Charts:

Inclusion of detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-to-cause tables.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of all critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and driveline components.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs.

Wiring Diagrams:

High-quality, detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely digital format (PDF) for modern sales, but the original was printed.

Print Quality:

Original factory print quality; digital versions aim to replicate clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Original: Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched; digital: N/A

Paper Type:

Original: High-quality, durable paper; digital: N/A

Searchability:

If PDF, includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

4.0L OHV V6 (60-degree)

Engine Displacement 1:

3956 cc (241.4 cu in)

Engine Bore X Stroke 1:

91.1 mm x 77.7 mm (3.59 in x 3.06 in)

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Engine Horsepower 1:

190 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine Block Material 1:

Cast Iron

Engine Cylinder Head Material 1:

Cast Iron

Engine Fuel Delivery 1:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Ignition System 1:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Optional Engine Available:

No, 4.0L OHV V6 was standard for this year.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW4)

Optional Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (AX-15)

Transfer Case Options:

Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD with 2WD mode) or Command-Trac (part-time 4WD).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Chrysler)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

AX-15: SAE 75W-90 (API GL-4 or GL-5, check manual for specific recommendation)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

167.2 inches (4247 mm)

Width:

71.2 inches (1808 mm)

Height:

66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) (varies slightly with trim/options)

Curb Weight Range:

3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 4,700 - 5,200 lbs (2132 - 2359 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 34.5 cu ft (977 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating 97:

Likely 3-star or 4-star (NHTSA ratings for this era are less comprehensive).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point active belts, rear lap and shoulder belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS (optional rear-wheel). No modern driver-assistance systems.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).

Engine Coolant Flush Interval:

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

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approx. 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically copper or platinum).

Engine Oil Type Capacity 1:

10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations); 5.5 quarts (5.2 L) with filter.

Engine Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Conquest Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Mopar P/S Fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Common Issue 1:

Headliner sag, especially in warmer climates.

Common Issue 2:

Oil filter adapter housing leaks (common on 4.0L).

Common Issue 3:

Cracked exhaust manifolds (on the 4.0L engine).

Common Issue 4:

Water pump leaks and bearing failures.

Common Issue 5:

Door hinge wear and sagging doors.

Common Issue 6:

Leaf spring 'sags' or breaks due to age and load.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road prowess, and utility, originating from its military WWII roots.

Xj Generation:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its time, being the first compact SUV and pioneering unibody construction in its class.

Xj Redesign 1997:

The 1997 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the XJ, including a redesigned interior, exterior styling updates (new front and rear fascias, updated grille), improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety features.

Xj Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America, last year for US market)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

The XJ Cherokee was widely praised for its off-road capability and was often considered one of the most trail-worthy SUVs available in its segment.