🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

XJ

Manual Code:

Likely a factory or authorized distributor publication

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact SUV/Off-Road Vehicle

Target Audience:

Jeep owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics, automotive restoration enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Toyota 4Runner, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.

Competitive Advantage:

Renowned off-road capability, robust inline-6 engine, relatively simple mechanicals, strong aftermarket support, loyal enthusiast base.

Vehicle Attributes:

Solid front axle (pre-1999, though 1997 still has it), coil-spring rear suspension (unique for its time), capable 4x4 systems (Command-Trac, optional Selec-Trac), durable construction.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers users with factory-accurate procedures, reducing labor costs and ensuring correct repairs, thereby maximizing vehicle longevity and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ (all sub-models and engine variants)

Secondary Coverage:

General troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures applicable to the XJ platform

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage of 4.0L (242 c.i.d.) inline-6 and 2.5L (150 c.i.d.) inline-4 engines, including disassembly, inspection, assembly, diagnostics, and specifications.

Transmission:

Detailed information for both the AX-15 and NV3550 manual transmissions, and the 30/42RLE automatic transmission. Includes removal, installation, overhaul, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axle assemblies (Dana 30/35), transfer case (NP231J Command-Trac), driveshafts, differentials, and hubs. Covers lubrication, maintenance, and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including leaf springs, coil springs, shocks, control arms, steering knuckles, and bushings. Focuses on alignment specifications and component replacement.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Covers hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, and service procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, and related components. Includes steering angle specifications and troubleshooting.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all circuits, starter motor, alternator, battery, ignition system, lighting, power windows, locks, wipers, and all standard and optional accessories.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fan, and coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and hangers. Covers inspection and replacement.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, tailgate, glass, bumpers, and structural components. Includes rust repair guidance and seam sealer application.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, and refrigerant handling.

Safety Systems:

Seat belts, airbags (SRS system), and other passive safety features. Includes diagnostic procedures for SRS warning lights.

Maintenance:

Detailed preventative maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, and inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Extensive diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all major systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component and system, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, and use of diagnostic tools.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners in engine, transmission, suspension, and chassis components.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and tire rotations to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electronic diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (typical for factory PDFs)

Print Quality:

High-resolution images and diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L (242 c.i.d.) OHV 12-Valve Inline-6 (PowerTech)

Engine 2:

2.5L (150 c.i.d.) OHV 8-Valve Inline-4 (AMC 150)

4.0L Horsepower:

Approx. 185 hp @ 4700 rpm

4.0L Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

2.5L Horsepower:

Approx. 125 hp @ 4800 rpm

2.5L Torque:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

ECM:

Chrysler/Jeep Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10-Year/100,000 Mile Formula)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

AX-15 5-speed manual (with 2.5L and some 4.0L models)

Transmission Optional 1:

30/42RLE 4-speed automatic (with 4.0L models)

Transmission Optional 2:

NV3550 5-speed manual (introduced late in XJ production, though 1997 is more commonly AX-15)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled torque converter lock-up, overdrive gear.

Ax-15 Fluid Spec:

API GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification)

30/42Rle Fluid Spec:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

167.5 inches (4255 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1775 mm)

Height:

63.4 inches (1610 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,600 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 4,750 - 5,000 lbs

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 33.9 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69.0 cu ft

Standard Tire Size:

P215/75R15 or P225/75R15 (varies by trim)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.5 inches (114.3 mm)

Wheel Size:

15 x 7 inches

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Front Driver:

Acceptable (for its era)

NHTSA Crash Test Front Passenger:

Acceptable (for its era)

ABS:

Available (4-wheel ABS on some models)

Traction Control:

Not commonly available for this model year

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners (front), lap belts (rear)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.

User Interface:

Analog gauges, manual climate controls, basic switchgear.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models

OBD Ii:

Compliant with OBD-II diagnostics (post-1996 requirement), allowing for scanning of fault codes.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (conventional oil), 5,000 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil) - consult manual for precise recommendations.

Tire Rotation:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Replace at approximately 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type - e.g., copper vs. platinum; consult manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0L: 5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter; 2.5L: 5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter

Engine Oil Viscosity:

10W-30 (common recommendation for 4.0L), 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 2.5L. Consult manual for climate-specific recommendations.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11-12 US quarts (10.4-11.3 L) for 4.0L, 9 US quarts (8.5 L) for 2.5L.

Transfer Case Fluid Type:

ATF+3 or equivalent for NP231J

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (front and rear axles)

Common Issues 1:

Cracked cylinder heads on 4.0L engines (especially earlier versions, but can occur on later ones), often exacerbated by overheating. The manual provides diagnostic steps.

Common Issues 2:

Oil filter adapter seal leaks (common on 4.0L) leading to oil drips.

Common Issues 3:

Front axle U-joint wear, requiring replacement.

Common Issues 4:

Radiator leaks and heater core issues.

Common Issues 5:

Power steering pump leaks and whining.

Common Issues 6:

TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) and MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor failures can cause drivability issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Founded in 1941 with the Willys MB, Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road capability, and utility vehicles.

Cherokee Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, revolutionized the SUV market as the first mass-produced, unibody SUV. It offered a more comfortable and refined ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Xj Mid Cycle Refresh:

The 1997 model year represented a significant facelift for the XJ generation, including updated exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, fenders, hood), revised interior with a modern dashboard, and updated powertrains/suspension components.

Production Years:

1984-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Ownership During 1997:

Chrysler Corporation (acquired American Motors Corporation, the original maker of the XJ, in 1987)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award 1:

Consistently ranked as one of the 'Top 10 Best 4x4s of the Last 20 Years' by Four Wheeler magazine (acknowledging the XJ's longevity and capability).

Award 2:

Popular choice in the aftermarket and enthusiast communities for its modification potential and durability, leading to numerous 'best off-roader' recognitions in its class.

Certification 1:

Factory publication, implying adherence to OEM technical standards and specifications.