🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Model Years Covered:

1997, 1998, 1999

Platform Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential reference tool for Jeep Cherokee XJ owners, enthusiasts, and professional mechanics involved in maintenance, restoration, or repair.

Value Proposition:

Provides the critical OEM part numbers and visual breakdowns essential for accurate part identification, preventing incorrect purchases and ensuring vehicle integrity.

Features:

Illustrated exploded views, comprehensive part number listings, coverage for 1997-1999 model years.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

OEM Replacement Parts Catalog

Specific Systems Covered:

Engine, Powertrain, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body, Interior, Climate Control, Accessories

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, typically 300-600 pages for comprehensive XJ parts catalogs.

Type:

Parts Manual / Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Illustrated, Exploded Parts Diagrams, Part Numbers Listed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Cylinder heads, blocks, pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, valvetrain, timing components, oil pump, oil pan, intake/exhaust manifolds.

Engine Ancillaries:

Alternator, starter, power steering pump, A/C compressor, water pump, distributor, ignition coils, sensors (TPS, MAP, O2, Crank/Camshaft position).

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel rail, evaporative emissions system components.

Components:

Radiator, radiator hoses, thermostat, water pump, cooling fan, heater core, expansion tank.

Components:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust pipes, hangers, heat shields.

Components:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 42RE, 44RE), manual transmission (e.g., AX-15, NV3550), transfer case (e.g., NP231), driveshafts, U-joints, axle assemblies.

Components:

Front and rear axle housings, differential gears, axle shafts, bearings, seals, locking differentials (if applicable).

Components:

Coil springs, control arms (upper/lower), ball joints, tie rod ends, steering knuckles, sway bar, shock absorbers/struts.

Components:

Leaf springs, shock absorbers, U-bolts, axle perches, track bar (if applicable).

Components:

Steering gear box/rack and pinion, power steering pump, hoses, steering column, steering wheel, tie rods, drag link.

Components:

Brake rotors, calipers, brake pads, brake lines, dust shields.

Components:

Brake drums/rotors, wheel cylinders/calipers, brake shoes/pads, brake lines, parking brake components.

Components:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lights, fog lights, bulb types and locations.

Components:

Instrument cluster components, gauges, warning lights, switches (wiper, headlight, ignition).

Components:

Door locks, power windows, power mirrors, horn, battery, starter, alternator, fuse box, relays, wiring harnesses.

Components:

Fenders, hood, doors, tailgate, bumpers, grille, mirrors, glass, windshield wipers, trim pieces.

Components:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, center console, headliner, carpet, seat belts, interior trim.

Components:

A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, HVAC controls, ducting.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed exploded diagrams facilitate systematic disassembly and reassembly of components.

Part Identification:

Identification of every component with corresponding OEM part numbers for ordering.

Service Replacement:

Guidance for identifying and sourcing replacement parts for repairs and maintenance.

Depth:

Comprehensive part enumeration and visual representation; does not typically include step-by-step repair procedures but is essential for part sourcing and understanding assembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital (PDF) or Printed Hardcopy. Specific format depends on the product offering.

Quality:

High-quality reproductions of original OEM diagrams and part listings.

Binding:

If printed: Spiral-bound, perfect-bound, or loose-leaf for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper:

If printed: Durable paper stock, often on heavy gloss or matte paper for clarity of diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Engine Code:

4.0L (242 ci) - Commonly designated as the 'High Output' (HO) version for this era.

Horsepower:

Approximately 190-193 hp @ 4750 rpm (depending on exact year and calibration)

Torque:

Approximately 235-239 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (depending on exact year and calibration)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Material:

Cast Iron

Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic

Transmission Model:

Chrysler 42RE (3-speed plus Overdrive) or 44RE (4-speed)

Transmission Type:

Manual

Transmission Model:

New Process (NP) NV3550 (5-speed)

Transfer Case:

Selec-Trac (part-time 4WD with 2WD option) or Command-Trac (part-time 4WD, typically NP231)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

Approximately 165.4 - 167.4 inches (4201 - 4252 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.5 - 67.1 inches (1689 - 1704 mm)

Height:

Approximately 62.0 - 64.1 inches (1575 - 1628 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg), depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4,500 - 4,700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (for the driver and passenger in frontal impact tests, based on earlier testing methodologies).

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (standard); some models offered rear disc brakes.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option on some trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard on 1997+ models.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or AM/FM/CD player. Upgraded speaker systems available. Aftermarket head unit compatibility is common.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

Towing Features:

Trailer tow package often available, including hitch receiver, wiring harness, and potentially transmission cooler.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for standard spark plugs; longer for platinum/iridium plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, depending on usage. Manual transmission fluid may vary.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH, SJ, or newer. Viscosity: 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. (Consult manual for precise spec).

Engine Oil Capacity:

6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter for 4.0L engine.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent meeting Chrysler specification.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent, check specific transmission model for older ATF+ types if applicable for the 42RE/44RE).

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler power steering fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.

Common Problems:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially earlier 4.0L models, less common on '97+ HO but still possible), radiator leaks, water pump failures, rear main seal leaks, alternator failures, transfer case chain stretch/wear, various suspension and steering component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Jeep, a division of Chrysler Corporation during this period, has a long lineage in rugged, off-road capable vehicles.

Generation Codification:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its unibody construction, differentiating it from traditional body-on-frame SUVs. The 1997-2001 models represent the second generation (facelifted XJ).

1997 Updates:

Major exterior styling refresh including new front and rear fascias, fenders, hood, doors, and updated interior. Introduction of a new dashboard design and improved ergonomics. ABS became more widely available.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (globally, with slight variations)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability:

Widely recognized for its off-road prowess, often praised for its articulation, approach/departure angles, and robust 4x4 systems, contributing to its cult following.

Value Retention:

The XJ Cherokee, particularly well-maintained examples, holds its value exceptionally well in the enthusiast market due to its durability and off-road capabilities.