Niche:
Known for its robust 4x4 capabilities, legendary 4.0L inline-six engine, and off-road prowess, appealing to enthusiasts and utility buyers alike.
Contemporaries:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Design:
Unibody construction (a pioneering feature for SUVs at the time), relatively compact footprint, excellent approach and departure angles.
Powertrain Longevity:
The AMC 4.0L inline-six is renowned for its durability and torque, making it a sought-after engine for both daily driving and off-roading.
Engine Systems:
2.5L I4 (AMC 150), 4.0L I6 (AMC 242) - including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, and emissions.
Drivetrain Systems:
Selectable 4WD (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac) and 2WD systems, NP231, NP242 transfer cases, Dana 30 front axle, Dana 35C rear axle.
Transmission Systems:
AX4, AX4-P, AW4 automatic transmissions; AX5, BA10/5, NV3550 manual transmissions.
Braking Systems:
Front disc brakes (solid and vented), rear drum brakes; ABS systems for applicable models.
Electrical Systems:
Alternator, starter, battery, lighting, power windows, power locks, instrumentation, engine control modules (ECMs/PCMs).
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft and bearing replacement.
Transmission Service:
Automatic and manual transmission removal, disassembly, reassembly, and fluid changes. Transfer case servicing.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Leaf spring replacement, shock absorber service, steering gearbox adjustments and replacement, power steering system service.
Brake System Overhaul:
Brake pad and shoe replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder service, brake bleeding procedures, parking brake adjustments.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common electrical faults, circuit testing using multimeters, troubleshooting power distribution issues.
Body And Interior Service:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment and removal, bumper service, trim panel replacement.
HVAC System Repair:
Heater core replacement, A/C compressor service, blower motor replacement, refrigerant system diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, tire rotations.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
OBD-I and early OBD-II code interpretation and troubleshooting steps.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Engine 1:
2.5L I4 (AMC 150)
Engine 1 Hp:
Approx. 121-130 hp (varies by year and calibration)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 150-160 lb-ft (varies by year and calibration)
Engine 2:
4.0L I6 (AMC 242)
Engine 2 Hp:
Approx. 173-190 hp (varies by year and calibration)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 220-255 lb-ft (varies by year and calibration)
Acceleration 0 60:
Highly variable based on engine, transmission, and drivetrain; typically 9-12 seconds for 4.0L models.
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across all covered years and engines.
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Limited data available for early models, but generally considered structurally sound for its era. Later models saw improvements.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum standard; optional ABS on later models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag introduced in later years (around 1994-1995). Passenger airbag not typically offered.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear lap belts standard. Shoulder belts in rear became more common later.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Check fluid levels periodically, typically no scheduled change unless issues arise.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH rated oil recommended (refer to manual for specific year/engine). Capacity approx. 5 quarts with filter for 4.0L.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler specifications) for AW4 and AX4 models. Check manual for exact spec.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90) for AX5, BA10/5. AX15/NV3550 typically use ATF+4 or specific gear oil.
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+4 for NP231/NP242 typically.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with proper corrosion inhibitors (typically green or orange). 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 11-12 quarts for 4.0L.
Common Faults:
Head gasket failures (especially on early 4.0L), cracked cylinder heads (late 90s 4.0L, less common in this range), CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure, steering box wear, rear main seal leaks, rust (especially on unibody structure and rocker panels).
Diagnostic Tips:
The manual will detail how to diagnose symptoms such as rough idle, misfires, loss of power, and specific fault codes.
Jeep Legacy:
Built upon Jeep's long history of producing rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, the Cherokee XJ was a revolutionary step forward with its unibody design, blending off-road capability with daily driver comfort.
Generations:
The XJ is the first generation of the Jeep Cherokee, produced from 1984 to 2001, with this manual covering the initial and longest-running phase.
Major Updates:
Key updates include the introduction of the 4.0L engine (1987), significant interior and exterior styling refreshes (1997), and updates to safety features and electronics.
Production End:
1996 (for this specific manual's coverage)
Manufacturing Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
