Segment:
Compact SUV, popular for its off-road capability and versatility.
Competitors 1988:
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Off Road:
Renowned for its robust 4x4 systems (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac) and excellent ground clearance, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
Durability:
Known for its rugged construction and the reliable AMC-designed 4.0L inline-six engine.
Design:
Unibody construction (a pioneering feature for SUVs at the time) contributed to a lighter, more car-like driving experience compared to body-on-frame competitors.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of 4.0L Inline-6 and 2.5L Inline-4 engines, including diagnostics, overhaul, and component testing.
Transmission:
Coverage for both manual (AX-4, AX-5) and automatic (AW-4) transmissions, including removal, installation, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Information on transfer cases (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac), front and rear axles (Dana 30, Dana 35), driveshafts, and differentials.
Suspension Steering:
Complete details on front and rear suspension (leaf springs, U-joint axle shafts, shock absorbers), steering system (power steering, steering gear).
Brakes:
Disc and drum brake systems, hydraulic circuits, parking brake, master cylinder, power booster, and component replacement procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, accessories, and diagnostic procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (Renix, Bosch), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, and evaporative emissions control.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, and troubleshooting.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emissions components.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system operation, diagnosis, and service; heater system components.
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, and upholstery.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and tune-up procedures.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications and tolerances.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical parameters, and diagnostic data.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine 1:
4.0L (242 cu in) AMC I6 OHV
Horsepower 1:
173 hp @ 4700 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2:
2.5L (150 cu in) AMC I4 OHV
Horsepower 2:
119 hp @ 4700 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
135 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for 4.0L, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for 2.5L (early models) evolving to MPFI.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, manual transmissions vary.
Coolant Change:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Spec:
API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact spec and temperature range).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual for exact specification; Dexron II/III might be acceptable for AW-4 but consult manual).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual).
Transfer Case Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for Selec-Trac), NP231 transfer case often uses Dexron II/III.
Common Problems 1:
Headliner sagging, worn door seals, interior plastic degradation, rear main seal leaks on the 4.0L engine, 'death wobble' (steering/suspension shimmy at certain speeds).
Common Problems 2:
Radiator leaks, clutch master cylinder leaks (manual transmission), rust issues in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, tailgate).
Typical Repairs:
Water pump replacement, alternator replacement, exhaust manifold gaskets, U-joints, brake pads/rotors, ball joints.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history rooted in military vehicles, evolving into a symbol of American off-road capability and adventure.
Xj Introduction:
The Cherokee XJ was introduced for the 1984 model year, revolutionizing the SUV market with its compact size and unibody construction.
Xj 1988 Updates:
The 1988 model year saw minor updates, including potential refinement of the fuel injection systems and interior features.
Production Period:
The XJ platform was produced from 1984 to 2001, with the 'Jeep Cherokee' nameplate continuing in many markets.