Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Jeep Cherokee XJ owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Differentiation:
This manual is noted for its comprehensiveness, often exceeding the scope of general owner's manuals and providing factory-level detail crucial for in-depth repairs.
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with exploded views for clarity.
Diagnostic Tools:
Coverage of diagnostic codes and troubleshooting procedures.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Schematics, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Transfer Case, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes
Electrical:
Engine Control, Body Control, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio, Powertrain Control Modules (PCM)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Glass, Doors, Liftgate
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Fuel System:
Fuel Delivery, Fuel Tank, Emissions Control
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical schematics.
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline 6 Cylinder (OHV, 12-valve)
Engine Name:
Power-Tech Six
Horsepower:
Approx. 185 hp @ 4,700 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
ECU Type:
Chrysler SBEC or NGC (depending on specific build date and emissions package)
Transmission Type:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual (less common in later XJ models)
Transfer Case:
NV231 Command-Trac (part-time, 2-speed 4WD) or NV242 Selec-Trac (full-time, 2-speed 4WD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (or equivalent spec, check specific service bulletin for exact designation for 1997)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MS-9070 (manual transmission fluid) or equivalent, typically 75W-90 gear oil
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
165.9 inches (4214 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
64.0 inches (1626 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg), varies by trim and options
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L) with rear seats folded
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - based on 1990s testing standards
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes; optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels or all four wheels.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 24 months for automatic transmission.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Service SG, SH, SJ rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for ambient temperature recommendations)
Engine Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. (Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Common Problem 1:
Head Gasket Leaks (especially on the 4.0L engine, though often addressed by '97 models with improved designs)
Common Problem 2:
Cracked Cylinder Heads (less common on '97 but a known XJ issue)
Common Problem 3:
Radiator Leaks and Overheating
Common Problem 4:
Transfer Case Chain Stretch and Slip
Common Problem 5:
Interior Trim Wear and Tear, Creaks and Rattles
Common Problem 6:
Leaf Spring Sag (rear suspension)
Common Problem 7:
Power Window Regulator Failure
1997 Update:
Significant facelift including new exterior styling (hood, grille, fenders, bumper), updated interior, improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) characteristics, and updated powertrain options.
Production Period:
1984-2001 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
