🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Generation:

XJ

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Jeep Cherokee XJ represented a mature and highly capable compact SUV, known for its robust construction, off-road prowess, and reliable powertrain options. It was positioned as a practical and durable choice for adventurers and families seeking a versatile vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Blazer. The XJ's unibody construction offered a more car-like ride than body-on-frame competitors, while its solid axle front suspension (on earlier models, transitioning to CV joint front axle on 4WD models in later years like 1998) provided excellent articulation for off-road use. Its relatively compact size made it more maneuverable than larger SUVs.

Key Features:

Legendary 4.0L 'High Output' inline-six engine, legendary Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4WD systems, durable unibody construction, strong aftermarket support, compact yet capable off-road platform, iconic boxy styling.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete vehicle service and repair

Page Count:

Approximately 1800 pages (estimated for comprehensive factory manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Zip/PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (4.0L I6, 2.5L I4), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (AW4, NV3550), Transfer Case (NP231), Driveline, Axles (Dana 30 Front, Dana 35 Rear), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Steering System, Suspension (Front & Rear), Body & Frame, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC System, Restraints System (Airbag), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Emissions Control.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, engine diagnostics and repair, transmission removal and installation, clutch service, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering linkage service, driveline maintenance, electrical troubleshooting, HVAC system repair, body panel alignment, interior trim removal and installation, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, component testing and replacement, detailed disassembly and reassembly procedures for all major components.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to complete engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical diagnostics. Includes torque specifications, clearance measurements, diagnostic flowcharts, and detailed exploded views.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L (3956cc) OHV 12-valve Inline-6 (PowerTech)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4750 RPM (approx.)

Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (approx.)

Fuel System:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Bore Stroke:

3.875 in x 3.575 in (98.4 mm x 90.8 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Engine Code 4 0L:

ERH

Secondary Engine Option:

2.5L (2507cc) OHV 8-valve Inline-4 (AMC 150)

Horsepower 4 Cylinder:

114 hp @ 4500 RPM (approx.)

Torque 4 Cylinder:

147 lb-ft @ 2500 RPM (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 4 0L:

4-Speed Automatic (AW4)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (NV3550)

Transfer Case Options:

New Process NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 2WD/4WD) or Selec-Trac (Full-Time 4WD option).

Fluid Type Aw4:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

Fluid Capacity Aw4:

9.7 US quarts (9.2 L)

Fluid Type Nv3550:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent (API GL-3/GL-4, SAE 75W-90)

Fluid Capacity Nv3550:

2.2 US quarts (2.1 L)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

173.4 inches (4404 mm)

Width:

70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Height:

64.5 inches (1638 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.3 inches (211 mm) stock

Curb Weight 4Wd Auto:

Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4800-5000 lbs (2177-2268 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 30.5 cu ft (0.86 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 68.4 cu ft (1.94 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

Not rated or available for this model year via standard channels.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - standard on rear wheels, optional on front. (Note: early models may not have had ABS as standard).

Passive Features:

Driver-side airbag, seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced unibody structure, side-impact beams.

Brake System Front:

Ventilated Disc Brakes

Brake System Rear:

Drum Brakes

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional CD player available. Manual climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited; primarily ABS on some models. No advanced electronic driver aids.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Basic vehicle diagnostics via OBD-I (earlier models) or OBD-II (later models like 1998).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendations).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

4.0L I6: ~100,000 miles (Platinum); 2.5L I4: ~30,000 miles (Copper/Standard).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or as per severe duty schedule.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SJ, SAE 10W-30 (preferred) or 10W-40 for 4.0L I6; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for 2.5L I4.

Engine Oil Capacity 4 0L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 2 5L:

5 US quarts (4.7 L) with filter

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 (Mopar) or equivalent

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Known Issues:

Common issues include: radiator leaks (especially the plastic end tanks), water pump failure, head gasket issues (though less common on the later 4.0L compared to earlier years), exhaust manifold cracks (4.0L), differential pinion seal leaks, transfer case chain stretch, heater core leaks, TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) failure, crankshaft position sensor failure, and aging electrical connectors. The unibody construction can also be prone to rust in certain climates, particularly around the rocker panels and floor pans.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mopar MO-090 or Wix 51515 (example)

Air Filter Part Number:

Mopar P5248894 or Wix 42332 (example)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep, originating from WWII Willys MB, has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness and off-road capability. The Cherokee line built upon this legacy, establishing itself as a pioneer in the compact SUV segment.

Model Evolution:

The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984 and remained in production with only minor updates through 2001 in North America. It was revolutionary for its time with its unibody construction, offering a lighter and more comfortable ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs. The 1998 model year represents a refinement of this successful formula, featuring updated interior styling and improved powertrain options.

Production Years:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the 1998 model year itself may not have specific documented awards, the XJ Cherokee platform as a whole has been consistently praised for its durability, off-road capability, and value by automotive publications and enthusiasts throughout its production run.