Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road utility vehicle
Reputation:
Renowned for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and utilitarian design
Key Competitors 1995:
Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco II, Mitsubishi Montero, Nissan Pathfinder
Chassis Design:
Unibody construction (distinctive for its era in SUVs), offering a balance of strength and ride comfort
Powertrain Options:
Proven AMC engines, robust transfer cases and axles for off-road prowess
Durability:
Highly regarded for its long-term durability and ease of maintenance
Engine:
2.5L AMC I4, 4.0L AMC I6 (detailed diagnostics, repair, specifications)
Transmission:
AX-5 (5-speed manual), AW4 (4-speed automatic) - overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications, torque converter details
Drivetrain:
NP231 Command-Trac (2WD/4WD), NP242 Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD/Full-time 4WD) transfer cases, Dana 30 front axle, Chrysler 8.25 rear axle (or Dana 44 depending on specific configuration) - overhaul, service, lubrication, axle ratios
Suspension:
Leaf spring rear, coil spring front with control arms - geometry, alignment, shock absorbers, bushings, ball joints, U-joints
Steering:
Power steering system - pump, gearbox, hoses, linkage, steering column, diagnostics
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum (or rear disc on some models) - hydraulic system, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box layouts, starting and charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control (EVAP), throttle body
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant types, capacities, flushing and refilling procedures
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant types, service procedures
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, hangers, emissions controls
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, glass, seals, body shop repair procedures, corrosion protection
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems, error code interpretation (if applicable)
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures for major components (engine, transmission, axles), component repair and adjustment
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnosis, fuel system pressure testing, emission control system testing, computer system diagnostics (if applicable)
Installation:
Accessory installation, body component replacement, suspension component replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls)
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, clearances, diagrams, and exploded views
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (recommend based on driving conditions)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mopar MO-090 or Wix 51515
Engine Oil Type 4.0:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0 Quarts:
5
Engine Oil Type 2.5:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5 Quarts:
5
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent green ethylene glycol based
Coolant Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 11.5-13 (depending on engine/radiator)
Common Issues Engine:
Head gasket failure (especially on early 4.0L), cracked cylinder heads (rare on 4.0L), oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, distributor O-ring leaks
Common Issues Transmission:
AW4 issues: harsh shifting, torque converter shudder; AX-5 issues: synchronizer wear, input shaft bearing failure
Common Issues Suspension:
Leaf spring sag, worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, u-joint failure
Common Issues Electrical:
Chafed wiring harnesses, intermittent gauge operation, blower motor resistor failure, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure on 4.0L
Common Issues Body:
Rust (especially frame rails, rocker panels, and floor pans), tailgate issues, window regulator failure
Service Intervals Transmission
Transmission Fluid Change Miles Aw4:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (recommend based on driving conditions)
Transmission Fluid Change Miles Ax5:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (recommend based on driving conditions)
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Flush Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Service Intervals Ignition
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)