🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

J10 Standard Cab Pickup

Year:

1979

Chassis Code:

J-series

Engine Codes:

AMC 258 (4.2L I6), AMC 304 (5.0L V8), AMC 360 (5.9L V8)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jeep J10 was a robust, workhorse full-size pickup truck, popular for its off-road capability and durability. It competed with domestic rivals like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet C/K series, and Dodge D-Series.

Competitive Analysis:

Jeep's offering stood out with its iconic styling and robust chassis, often favored by those seeking a more rugged and distinct alternative to its competitors. The J10 offered a blend of utility and the legendary Jeep go-anywhere spirit.

Key Features:

Strong V8 engine options, available four-wheel drive, durable leaf-spring suspension, classic Jeep styling, spacious standard cab.

Value Proposition:

This comprehensive service manual PDF provides owners and mechanics with the in-depth technical information necessary to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1979 Jeep J10 Standard Cab Pickup, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, clutch, transmission (manual & automatic), transfer case, driveshafts, axles, suspension, steering, brakes (front disc/rear drum), electrical system, body, interior, HVAC, emissions control.

Estimated Page Count:

~700-900

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing, lubrication, oil pump, oil pan.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet, Carter BBD) service, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter, emissions control integration.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, fan clutch, coolant specifications, flush and fill procedures.

Transmission Manual:

SM465, T-18, NP435 disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, clutch system, PTO provision (if applicable).

Transmission Automatic:

TorqueFlite (e.g., 727, 904) overhaul, adjustments, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Transfer Case:

Dana 20, New Process NP205 (likely) overhaul, lubrication, operation, four-wheel drive engagement.

Suspension:

Front leaf spring, rear leaf spring, shock absorbers, bushings, lubrication points, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (if equipped), steering gear, tie rods, drag link, steering column, lubrication, adjustments.

Brakes:

Front disc brake caliper service, brake pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, rear drum brake service, wheel cylinders, brake shoes, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator, charging system, ignition switch, lighting system, gauges, dashboard instruments, fuse panel, starter solenoid, horn.

Body Interior:

Door mechanisms, window regulators, seat removal, interior trim, dashboard removal, tailgate operation, body panel repair, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heater core, blower motor, ducting, A/C system (if equipped) diagnosis and repair.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication points, tune-up procedures, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake adjustment.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical schematic interpretation, common failure modes.

Repair:

Step-by-step disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major components and systems, including component replacement and adjustment.

Diagnostics:

Engine performance diagnosis, electrical system fault finding, brake system diagnostics, transmission issues.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications, tolerances, and torque values.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text and images, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Interactivity:

Hyperlinked table of contents and index for easy navigation.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

AMC 258 (4.2L) Inline-6

Engine Option 1 Displacement:

4.2 Liters (258 cubic inches)

Engine Option 1 Configuration:

Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine Option 1 Horsepower:

~110-115 HP @ 3500 RPM (estimated)

Engine Option 1 Torque:

~200-210 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (estimated)

Engine Option 2:

AMC 304 (5.0L) V8

Engine Option 2 Displacement:

5.0 Liters (304 cubic inches)

Engine Option 2 Configuration:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine Option 2 Horsepower:

~150-155 HP @ 3600 RPM (estimated)

Engine Option 2 Torque:

~240-250 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM (estimated)

Engine Option 3:

AMC 360 (5.9L) V8

Engine Option 3 Displacement:

5.9 Liters (360 cubic inches)

Engine Option 3 Configuration:

V8, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine Option 3 Horsepower:

~170-175 HP @ 3400 RPM (estimated)

Engine Option 3 Torque:

~290-300 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (estimated)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (likely Rochester Quadrajet or Carter BBD for I6/smaller V8, potentially others for 360)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributor-based, electronic ignition (likely)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Manual (e.g., SM465, T-18, NP435)

Optional Transmission:

3-Speed Automatic (e.g., Chrysler Torqueflite 727 or 904)

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD, likely Dana 20 or New Process NP205

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated (typical for manual)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 or 85W-90 (consult manual for specific type)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by configuration (e.g., 119" for short bed, 131" for long bed)

Length:

Varies by bed length (approx. 190-210 inches)

Width:

Approx. 79 inches

Height:

Approx. 68-70 inches

Cab Type:

Standard Cab

Seating Capacity:

3 (driver + 2 passengers)

Bed Lengths:

Available in Fleetside 6.5 ft and 8 ft configurations

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4000-4500 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by configuration, typically 5000-6000+ lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Safety standards and testing were less stringent in 1979 compared to modern vehicles. Official NHTSA ratings from this era are limited or non-existent for this specific model.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel drive (optional), robust chassis construction.

Passive Safety Features:

Lap belts, reinforced cabin structure, dual-circuit hydraulic brakes.

Front Brakes:

Power-assisted disc brakes

Rear Brakes:

Drum brakes

Standard Tire Size:

Typically 7.75-15 or similar (consult manual for exact options)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x5.5 inches (139.7mm) (common for Jeeps of this era)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio (optional), analog gauges.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus on mechanical systems.

Engine Management:

Carburetor-based fuel delivery and distributor-based ignition control. Minimal electronic intervention.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical recommendation for the era)

Tune Up Interval:

Every 12,000-24,000 miles (includes spark plugs, points/condenser if applicable, distributor cap/rotor)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 24,000-36,000 miles or 24 months

Coolant Flush:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific engine/climate)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 US quarts (with filter) for I6, 5-6 US quarts for V8s (consult manual)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (green)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)

Common Issues:

Rust (especially on fenders, cab corners, bed), carburetor tuning issues, vacuum leaks, potential cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), U-joint wear, steering component wear.

Lubrication Points:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, steering idler arm, U-joints, driveshaft slip joints, parking brake cables, pedal pivots.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep, originally Willys-Overland, has a rich military and off-road heritage dating back to WWII. This legacy is evident in the robust engineering and capability of its civilian vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The J-series pickup trucks, including the J10, were produced from 1963 to 1987. They evolved from the earlier Gladiator line, sharing many components and design philosophies. The 1979 model represents a mature iteration of this platform, featuring AMC engines and updated styling.

Production Period:

1979

Manufacturer:

American Motors Corporation (AMC)

Assembly Location:

Various AMC plants in the United States

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1979 J10 are not widely documented, the Jeep brand has consistently been recognized for its off-road prowess and rugged utility throughout its history.

Ratings:

Valued by enthusiasts for durability and off-road capability.