🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Generation Code:

ZG

Model Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

ZJ (ZG is the Australian/New Zealand market designation for the later ZJ series)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Luxury SUV

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Land Rover Discovery.

Jeep Advantage:

Off-road capability, luxurious interior appointments, and a robust V8 engine option were key differentiators.

Chassis:

Body-on-frame construction, providing durability for off-road use and towing.

Powertrain Options:

Available with the venerable 4.0L inline-6 and a more powerful 5.2L V8 (Magnum) or later 5.9L V8.

4X4 Systems:

Offered with Selec-Trac (part-time/full-time 4WD) and Quadra-Trac (full-time 4WD with electronic variable transfer case).

Interior Luxury:

Premium materials, available leather seating, and a focus on comfort for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Parts Catalog

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 800-1200 pages (typical for a comprehensive parts catalog of this era)

Type:

Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (42RE, 46RH), transfer case (NP231, NP242), driveshafts, differentials (front and rear), axles, CV joints, wheel hubs.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, ABS components.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shocks), steering gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering system.

Electrical System:

Wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), sensors, ECUs.

Body Chassis:

Body panels (hood, fenders, doors, tailgate), bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, chassis frame, mounting hardware.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system components, heater core, blower motor, climate controls.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel filter.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, hangers.

Part Identification:

Detailed diagrams with exploded views of all major vehicle systems, allowing for precise identification of individual parts and their corresponding part numbers.

Part Number Lookup:

Comprehensive listing of all OEM part numbers for replacement and service.

Assembly Disassembly:

Illustrative guidance on how components are assembled and disassembled, crucial for parts ordering and understanding fitment.

Interchangeability:

May include cross-reference information for superseded or interchangeable parts.

Depth:

OEM Level Detail. Provides the exact part numbers and illustrations used by authorized Jeep dealerships for ordering and replacement.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick finding of specific part numbers or descriptions.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution illustrations and diagrams suitable for printing.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital File)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

4.0L I6 (242ci)

Engine 1 Description:

Overhead Valve (OHV) inline six-cylinder engine. Known for its torque, durability, and smooth power delivery.

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approximately 185 hp @ 4,700 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approximately 220 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm

Engine 1 Bore Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.578 in

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine 2 Code:

5.2L V8 (318ci) Magnum

Engine 2 Description:

Overhead Valve (OHV) V8 engine. Offered improved performance and towing capability.

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approximately 205 hp @ 4,200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approximately 295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 3 Code:

5.9L V8 (360ci) Magnum (available late in the ZJ run, or for export variants like ZG)

Engine 3 Description:

Overhead Valve (OHV) V8 engine. Higher output for enhanced performance.

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approximately 215-230 hp @ 4,200-4,400 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approximately 310-330 lb-ft @ 3,200-3,600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for V8s for optimal performance).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type I6:

42RE 4-speed Automatic

Transmission Type V8:

46RH 4-speed Automatic (with higher torque capacity)

Manual Transmission Availability:

Not typically offered on Grand Cherokee models of this era, especially in export markets like Australia (ZG).

Transmission Control:

Electronically controlled with a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved fuel economy.

42Re Ratios:

2.45 (1st), 1.45 (2nd), 1.00 (3rd), 0.69 (4th), 2.20 (Reverse)

46Rh Ratios:

2.74 (1st), 1.54 (2nd), 1.00 (3rd), 0.70 (4th), 2.21 (Reverse)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.4 inches (4,811 mm)

Width:

Approx. 71.0 inches (1,803 mm)

Height:

Approx. 65.9 inches (1,674 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 112.7 inches (2,863 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)

Curb Weight I6:

Approx. 4,200 - 4,400 lbs (1,905 - 2,000 kg)

Curb Weight V8:

Approx. 4,400 - 4,700 lbs (2,000 - 2,130 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (2,948 kg) with proper equipment and V8 engine.

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 1,000 - 1,300 lbs (454 - 590 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 41.5 cu ft (1,175 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 81.4 cu ft (2,305 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

3-star rating (typical for SUVs of this era, depending on configuration).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system (often referred to as 'Trac-Lok' or similar).

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.

Body Construction:

Reinforced body structure with crumple zones for improved crash energy management.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Available premium sound systems (e.g., Infinity).

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Optional keyless entry system.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on power accessories and basic vehicle functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).

Transmission Service:

Check fluid level regularly; fluid and filter change recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Spark Plugs:

Recommended replacement at 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), depending on plug type.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for seasonal variations or specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 4.0L I6; Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter for V8 engines.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Common Problem 1:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L I6 models, though less common by '97).

Common Problem 2:

Water pump leaks, alternator failures, power steering pump leaks.

Common Problem 3:

Interior electrical issues (window regulators, door locks, power seat motors).

Common Problem 4:

Transmission issues (e.g., delayed engagement, slipping) related to solenoid packs or valve bodies.

Common Problem 5:

Rust, particularly on the rear quarter panels and rocker arms, common in certain climates.

Common Problem 6:

Front differential carrier bearing wear, especially in 4x4 models with high mileage or heavy use.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep, a brand synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness since WWII.

Zj Generation:

The ZJ generation (1993-1998) was Jeep's first true luxury SUV, transitioning from the more utilitarian XJ Cherokee. It represented a significant step up in refinement and features.

Zg Designation:

ZG is the commonly used designation for the ZJ Grand Cherokee in markets like Australia and New Zealand, often reflecting minor equipment or specification variations tailored for those regions.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA (primary facility).

Production Years Zj:

1993-1998

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

While not for the 1997 model specifically, the ZJ Grand Cherokee was highly acclaimed during its run and often featured in 'best SUV' lists of its time.