Target Audience:
Jeep Cherokee XJ owners, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops specializing in Jeep vehicles.
Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, factory-level repair and maintenance information that is often more detailed and accessible than online forums. Empowers owners to perform their own repairs, saving money and increasing vehicle longevity.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Covers all major mechanical and electrical systems of the 1997-1999 Jeep Cherokee XJ.
Brand Loyalty:
The XJ Cherokee is renowned for its ruggedness and capability, fostering a dedicated owner base that values detailed technical documentation.
Self Sufficiency:
Enables owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, from routine servicing to more complex overhauls.
Engine Service:
Detailed procedures for 4.0L (242 ci) Inline-6 gasoline engine, including timing, valve train, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, and exhaust systems.
Transmission Service:
Coverage for 42RE (4-speed automatic) and AX-15 (5-speed manual) transmissions, including overhaul, adjustments, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Service:
Comprehensive details on front and rear axles (Dana 30 front, Chrysler 8.25 or Dana 35 rear), transfer case (NP231 'Command-Trac'), driveshafts, and CV joints.
Suspension Service:
Front suspension (solid axle with leaf springs or optional coil springs), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system, and wheel alignment procedures.
Brake Service:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard), anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped, brake fluid specifications, caliper and master cylinder overhaul, and parking brake system.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, and accessory circuits.
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustments, interior trim, exterior body panel repair, glass replacement, and body sealant application.
Maintenance Tasks:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, filter replacements (air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, and lubrication points.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and suspension noises.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for major vehicle systems.
Special Tools And Equipment:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to major component overhaul and engine rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic charts.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 3.563 in. (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for this generation)
Horsepower:
Approximately 185-190 hp @ 4600 rpm (model year dependent)
Torque:
Approximately 220-225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (model year dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth Antifreeze/Coolant, Blue (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Type 1:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission Type 2:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transfer Case:
New Process (NP) 231 'Command-Trac' (Standard 4WD system)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 (or equivalent - consult manual for exact Mopar spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-3 or GL-4 75W-90 Gear Oil (consult manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 170.0 inches (4318 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65.0 inches (1651 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.4 inches (2626 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (1497 - 1633 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4750 - 5000 lbs (2154 - 2268 kg)
Standard Tire Size:
P215/75R15 (common)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (5 x 114.3 mm)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (for comparable models of the era)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (for comparable models of the era)
ABS:
Optional (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seat belts
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player and Optional CD Player.
Speakers:
Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard or Optional depending on trim level.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System available on some models.
Auxiliary Inputs:
N/A (No factory auxiliary audio inputs for this era).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (recommend checking manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) or as per manual recommendation.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (50,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-30 API Service Category SJ or higher (or consult manual for exact Mopar specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issue 1:
Head gasket leaks (especially around the manifold on the 4.0L engine)
Common Issue 2:
Cracked cylinder heads (less common on later models, but still possible)
Common Issue 3:
CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure leading to stalling.
Common Issue 4:
Interior and exterior rust, particularly on rocker panels, floor pans, and tailgate.
Common Issue 5:
Leaf spring wear and sag, particularly at the rear.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep's heritage is rooted in robust, go-anywhere utility vehicles, a philosophy carried through to the Cherokee XJ.
Xj Generation:
The XJ, produced from 1984 to 2001, was revolutionary for its unibody construction, offering a lighter and more fuel-efficient alternative to body-on-frame SUVs of its time. The 1997-1999 models represent the final major refresh of the XJ generation, featuring updated styling, improved interiors, and revised powertrain options.
Production Period:
1984-2001 (XJ generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
