🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

ZJ

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ represented Jeep's foray into the luxury SUV segment, competing with established players like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Blazer, while offering superior off-road capability.

Competitive Analysis:

The ZJ Grand Cherokee was lauded for its unibody construction, which provided a more comfortable ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs, combined with Jeep's legendary four-wheel-drive systems (Selec-Trac, Command-Trac, and the full-time Quadra-Trac).

Key Features Vehicle:

Available with powerful V8 engines, a refined interior for its class, and advanced four-wheel-drive options.

Key Features Manual:

Offers detailed, step-by-step instructions with diagrams, enabling DIY repairs and maintenance, saving on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete service and repair for 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ

Page Count Estimated:

Hundreds of pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Detailed procedures for engine diagnostics, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Transmission Service Repair:

Covers automatic and manual transmission service, repair, and overhaul procedures.

Brake System:

Diagnosis and repair of hydraulic, ABS, and parking brake systems.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics for all electrical circuits.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component inspection, replacement, and alignment procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Periodic Lubrication:

Recommended lubrication points, fluid types, and service intervals.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan service and repair.

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, and fuel tank service and diagnostics.

Emission System:

Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR system, and evaporative emission control service.

Heater Air Conditional:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Engine Control System:

PCM diagnostics, sensor testing, and related control module procedures.

Chassis Body:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, and chassis component service.

Restraint System:

Airbag system diagnostics and replacement procedures.

Interior:

Trim removal, seat repair, and interior component service.

Differential Drive Axle:

Front and rear axle service, differential overhaul, and axle shaft replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues.

General Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks.

Rebuilding:

Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding instructions.

Depth:

Comprehensive coverage from basic DIY maintenance to complex engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

4.0L (242 cu in) Inline-6

Engine 1 Code:

AMC 242

Engine 1 Horsepower:

185 hp @ 4,700 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.0L (242 cu in) Inline-6 High Output

Engine 2 Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4,700 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm

Engine 3 Displacement:

5.2L (318 cu in) V8 Magnum

Engine 3 Code:

LA318

Engine 3 Horsepower:

220 hp @ 4,600 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 4 Displacement:

5.9L (360 cu in) V8 Magnum

Engine 4 Code:

LA360

Engine 4 Horsepower:

230 hp @ 4,800 rpm

Engine 4 Torque:

320 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

42RE 4-speed Automatic

Transmission 2 Type:

NV3550 5-speed Manual (less common)

Transmission Fluid Type 42Re:

ATF+3 (MS-7176)

Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re:

Approx. 7.5 pints (dry fill)

4X4 Systems:

Selec-Trac (Part-time/Full-time), Command-Trac (Part-time), Quadra-Trac (Full-time optional)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.0 inches

Length:

179.1 inches

Width:

70.5 inches

Height:

63.4 inches

Curb Weight Approx:

4,000 - 4,500 lbs (depending on engine and drivetrain)

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 6,500 lbs (with proper equipment and V8 engine)

Payload Capacity Max:

Approx. 1,150 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Not specifically rated in the modern sense, but design considered occupant protection.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

Front: Three-point automatic locking retractors; Rear: Lap and shoulder belts

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models

Traction Control:

Available on some models, particularly with V8 engines.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with optional premium sound systems. Limited digital integration typical of the era.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for longer intervals).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type; ATF+3 is sensitive to heat).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-30 for 4.0L I6 and 5.2L V8; SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 for 5.9L V8.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler Long-Life (HOAT) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 (MS-7176)

Known Issues Engine:

Cracked cylinder heads on the 4.0L I6 (though less prevalent on later models), oil filter adapter housing leaks.

Known Issues Transmission:

Leaking transmission cooler lines, wear on torque converter clutch.

Known Issues Electrical:

Faulty instrument cluster components, failing power window motors, HVAC blower motor resistor failures.

Known Issues Suspension:

Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and track bar bushings.

Known Issues Cooling:

Leaking radiator, heater core failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep, a division of Chrysler Corporation at the time, had a long history of producing capable off-road vehicles, including the Wagoneer and Cherokee.

Model Evolution:

The ZJ Grand Cherokee was introduced for the 1993 model year as a larger, more luxurious sibling to the XJ Cherokee. The 1998 model year received minor updates and continued the successful formula of blending luxury, comfort, and Jeep's core off-road prowess.

Production Years:

1993-1998 (ZJ platform)

Manufacturing Location:

Jefferson North Assembly, Detroit, Michigan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions Vehicle:

Often praised by automotive critics for its blend of comfort and off-road capability, though not consistently recognized with specific major awards like modern SUVs.