🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Comanche

Year:

1984

Chassis Code:

MJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck

Unique Selling Proposition:

A compact pickup built on Jeep's renowned 4x4 heritage, offering robust capability and utility.

Key Competitors:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Hilux/Tacoma

Drivetrain Options:

Available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations (Command-Trac part-time 4WD system).

Body Styles:

Regular Cab and Quad Cab (extended cab) configurations.

Bed Lengths:

Short Bed and Long Bed options.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed (based on industry standard for this era, PDF versions often later digitalizations)

Page Count:

Estimated 500-700+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), driveline, axles, clutch

Chassis:

Suspension (front & rear), steering system, brakes (front & rear), wheels & tires

Electrical:

Battery, starting system, charging system, ignition system, lighting system, instrument panel, gauges, accessories, wiring diagrams

Body:

Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, doors, windows, body panels, chassis lubrication

Interior:

Seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, headliner, floor coverings.

Maintenance:

Lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, inspections

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, body panel repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all major systems, fault code interpretation (if applicable)

Diagnostics:

System-specific diagnostic charts, symptom-to-cause mapping, troubleshooting flowcharts.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed torque specifications, alignment procedures, and electrical schematics.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams for all electrical components.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems.

Engine Rebuild Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly, including piston ring gap, bearing clearances, and valve timing.

Transmission Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed procedures for disassembling, inspecting, and rebuilding both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch pack replacement, valve body calibration, and gear synchronization.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Notes:

If digital (PDF), expect high-resolution scans of original pages. Searchable text functionality is desirable but not guaranteed for older scanned documents.

Print Quality Notes:

Original manuals typically feature clear black and white diagrams and text. Reproduction quality will vary.

Binding Type Notes:

Originals were typically perfect-bound or spiral-bound for ease of use on a workbench.

Paper Type Notes:

Originals were printed on durable paper stock to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement 1:

2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4

Engine Code 1:

4-150

Engine Horsepower 1:

Approx. 115 hp @ 4600 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Engine Displacement 2:

4.0L (242 cu in) AMC I6

Engine Code 2:

4.0L OHV I6

Engine Horsepower 2:

Approx. 173 hp @ 4500 rpm (later models, 1987+)

Engine Torque 2:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (later models, 1987+)

Fuel Delivery 1:

Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 2.5L I4

Fuel Delivery 2:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 4.0L I6 (introduced later, but important for context)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11-13 quarts (Varies by engine and radiator size).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

4-speed Manual (NP2500)

Transmission Type 2:

3-speed Automatic (TF-999 / A904)

Transmission Type 3:

4-speed Automatic (AW4) - Primarily with 4.0L I6 (later models)

Transfer Case Manual:

New Process NP207 Command-Trac (part-time, 2WD/4WD Part-Time/4WD Part-Time Lo)

Transfer Case Automatic:

New Process NP231 Command-Trac (part-time, 2WD/4WD Part-Time/4WD Part-Time Lo) - Common with AW4

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 (check specific manual for exact spec, e.g., Chrysler MS-5404)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+2 or ATF+3 (Chrysler spec)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Bed:

113.0 inches

Wheelbase Long Bed:

125.0 inches

Overall Length Short Bed:

176.1 inches

Overall Length Long Bed:

188.1 inches

Bed Length Short:

6 feet

Bed Length Long:

7 feet

Curb Weight Approx:

3,200 - 3,800 lbs (varies by configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

4,700 - 5,300 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Notes:

Data for 1984 compact trucks is less comprehensive than modern standards. Focus on structural integrity and driver protection features of the era.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist standard on most trims.

Seatbelts:

Lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear, if equipped).

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio with cassette player was common. Optional premium sound systems might have existed.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers (dash and/or door mounted).

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trims.

Air Conditioning:

Optional, integrated into the dash.

Connectivity Features:

None, as this predates modern connectivity standards.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).

Tune Up Interval Miles:

Spark plugs, distributor cap, rotor, and wires typically every 30,000-50,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per severe duty schedule.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity 2 5L:

Approx. 5 quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 4 0L:

Approx. 6 quarts (with filter) - Note: 4.0L was not a 1984 option.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+2 or ATF+3 (Chrysler spec) or equivalent power steering fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Leaf springs (sagging), universal joints, exhaust systems (rust), cooling system components (radiator, hoses), alternator, starter motor.

Engine Specific Notes:

The AMC 2.5L (4-150) is known for reliability but can be prone to oil leaks and exhaust manifold cracks over time. TBI systems require regular cleaning.

Electrical System Notes:

Wiring harness insulation can degrade over time, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Ground points should be inspected and cleaned.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

The Comanche leverages Jeep's long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability, extending this to the compact pickup segment.

Introduction Year:

1986 (Model Year)

Platform:

Based on the XJ Cherokee platform, sharing many components.

Production Period:

1986-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Accolades:

While not directly awarded, the Comanche inherits Jeep's strong off-road heritage and capability, making it a respected choice for off-road enthusiasts of its era.

Consumer Reports Notes:

Consumer Reports ratings for this specific model year are less readily available. Generally, Jeep products of this era were rated for utility and off-road prowess but could vary in reliability compared to Japanese competitors.