🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Model Variant:

XJ (Cherokee Sport, Classic, Limited)

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

XJ

Vin Code Region:

J

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV, Sport Utility Vehicle

Jeep Brand Role:

Cherokee XJ was a foundational model in popularizing the modern SUV segment, known for its blend of off-road capability and everyday usability.

Competitors 1997:

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

Unibody Construction:

Pioneering use of unibody construction in an SUV for improved ride comfort and handling compared to traditional body-on-frame vehicles.

Off Road Capability:

Solid reputation for off-road prowess due to its robust 4WD systems and available features like limited-slip differentials and skid plates.

Practicality:

Compact size, manageable for urban driving, combined with ample cargo space and towing capacity.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF) based on common availability for this era, or Print

Estimated Page Count:

~1500-2500 Pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full teardown, inspection, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, and cooling systems.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics, and troubleshooting for performance issues.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of manual transmissions (e.g., AX-5, NV3550) including clutch system.

Transmission Automatic:

Disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of automatic transmissions (e.g., AW4, 32RH) including torque converter and transmission control systems.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, driveshafts, U-joints, transfer case (e.g., NP231, NP242) overhaul and service.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (leaf spring rear, coil spring front), shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear (box or rack and pinion), tie rods, steering column, and related components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configuration), hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (if equipped), caliper and wheel cylinder overhaul, rotor/drum replacement.

Electrical System:

Full wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, ignition, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, and accessory circuits.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, tailpipe, and oxygen sensors.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant system, and climate controls.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, seals, and exterior trim.

Body Interior:

Interior trim panels, dashboard assembly, seats, carpeting, headliner, and body sealant procedures.

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotations, and inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues based on symptoms.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, adjustment, and repair, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine and ABS systems, sensor testing, and electronic control unit (ECU) related diagnostics.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, enabling tracing of circuits and troubleshooting of electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and detailed electrical system diagnostics.

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (most common), possibly DjVu or scanned image files

Searchability:

Typically OCR-processed for text searchability if digital.

Print Quality:

Variable, depending on the source. Professional reproductions aim for high-quality scans and clear text/images.

Binding Type Printed:

Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use and page lay-flat capability.

Paper Type Printed:

Durable, slightly glossy paper stock to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

AMC 242

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.414 in (98.4 mm x 86.7 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower Net:

185 hp @ 4,750 rpm

Torque Net:

220 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Distributorless Ignition Module (DIM)

Oil Type Capacity:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30; Capacity: 5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.

Engine Code:

AMC 242 (4.0L I6)

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)

Horsepower Net:

185 hp @ 4,750 rpm

Torque Net:

220 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Oil Type Capacity:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30; Capacity: 5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

Chrysler 30-43LE (also known as 32RH)

Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (preferred) or Mopar ATF+3 (compatible) - Capacity: 6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters) pan drop.

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Model:

New Process NV3550 (later models) or AX-5

Fluid Type:

GL-3 or GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: Varies by specific transmission, typically around 2.0-2.5 US quarts.

Transfer Case Standard:

Command-Trac NV231 (Part-time, 2WD High, 4WD High, Neutral, 4WD Low)

Transfer Case Optional:

Selec-Trac NV242 (Full-time 4WD, 2WD High, Neutral, 4WD Low)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.4 inches (2626 mm)

Length:

169.9 inches (4315 mm)

Width:

69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Height:

62.5 inches (1588 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.5 inches (216 mm) depending on tire size and suspension

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,600 lbs (1,497 - 1,633 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 4,800 - 5,000 lbs (2,177 - 2,268 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with optional towing package

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 27.0 cubic feet (0.76 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cubic feet (1.95 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Four Stars (1997 model year specific rating often not available for this era, but typical for its class and time)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Four Stars (1997 model year specific rating often not available for this era, but typical for its class and time)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, typically on front wheels only for 1997, or 4-wheel ABS on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Not commonly available for this model year.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point active seatbelts with front pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations typically 4 or 6 speakers.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control with A/C and heater, or optional automatic temperature control (less common).

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trim levels.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on higher trims), fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltmeter. Warning lights for various systems.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard. Aftermarket solutions required for modern audio connectivity.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors available on certain trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic: Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km). Manual: Inspect regularly, change as needed or every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-4 years.

Engine Coolant:

Mopar (Chrysler) HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Pre-mixed or concentrate available.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid.

Engine Sludge:

The 4.0L I6 engine can be prone to sludge buildup if oil changes are neglected, particularly around the oil filter housing and pickup tube.

Crankshaft Position Sensor Cps:

The CPS is a common failure point, leading to no-start or stalling issues. Early sensors could overheat.

Heater Core:

The heater core is located behind the dashboard and is known to leak, often requiring significant disassembly to replace.

Rear Main Seal Leak:

Rear main engine seal leaks can occur, requiring transmission removal for replacement.

Leaf Spring Sags:

Rear leaf springs can sag over time, particularly in older models or those used for heavy hauling/towing.

Transfer Case Chain Stretch:

The chain in the NV231 transfer case can stretch over time, leading to clunking or hesitation during engagement.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history dating back to WWII, synonymous with ruggedness, off-road capability, and adventure.

Xj Introduction:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was introduced for the 1984 model year and revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody design.

Xj Generation Status:

The 1997 model year represents a significant mid-cycle refresh (second generation facelift) for the XJ, featuring updated exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, fenders, grille) and interior refinements.

Xj Production End:

The XJ Cherokee was produced until 2001.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Production Years:

1984-2001

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was named Motor Trend's 'Import Car of the Year' (despite being domestic) in 1984 and 'Truck of the Year' in 1997, reflecting its significant impact and capabilities.

Four Wheeler Magazine Titles:

Frequently recognized by off-road publications like Four Wheeler Magazine for its trail prowess and aftermarket support.

Emissions Compliance:

Complies with EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for the 1997 model year.