Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, specifications for 3.8L V6 and 3.6L Pentastar (if applicable for 2009 models) engines.
Transmission:
Repair and overhaul for manual (NSG370) and automatic (42RLE) transmissions, including clutches, driveline components, and transfer case.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper service, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (solid axles), steering gear, power steering system, alignment procedures, wheel bearing replacement.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, body control modules, multiplex systems, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II), wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, convertible top service, door and latch mechanisms, glass replacement, body repair techniques.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, blower motor, refrigerant handling, diagnostic procedures.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure, emissions control systems, catalytic converter.
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications, pressure testing, fan systems.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, emissions monitoring.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, repair, mounting points for body and suspension components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotation, fluid level checks, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, internal component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), cylinder head service.
Transmission Repair:
Transmission removal and installation, clutch replacement, internal transmission component overhaul, fluid flushing.
Brake Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, bleeding the brake system, ABS component replacement.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Replacement of ball joints, tie rod ends, drag links, shocks, springs, steering box rebuild.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing circuits, component replacement, wiring harness repair, use of diagnostic scan tools.
Body Work:
Panel alignment, dent repair, rust prevention, window and door seal replacement.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant charging, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator).
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Wheelbase 2 Door:
95.4 inches (2423 mm)
Wheelbase 4 Door Unlimited:
116.0 inches (2946 mm)
Length 2 Door:
160.0 inches (4064 mm)
Length 4 Door Unlimited:
179.2 inches (4552 mm)
Width Excluding Mirrors:
73.7 inches (1872 mm)
Height:
72.4 inches (1839 mm) approx.
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat 2 Door:
12.4 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat 4 Door Unlimited:
31.5 cubic feet
Curb Weight 2 Door Manual:
Approx. 3,885 lbs (1762 kg)
Curb Weight 4 Door Unlimited Auto:
Approx. 4,562 lbs (2069 kg)
Towing Capacity 2 Door:
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Towing Capacity 4 Door Unlimited:
3,500 lbs (1588 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x5 inches (127mm)
Tire Size Standard:
P225/75R16 or LT255/75R17 (varies by trim)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Inspect during oil changes.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually, depending on environment.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement 3 8L:
Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for the 3.8L V6, using iridium-tip spark plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change for 3.8L V6.
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Engine Coolant (OAT) or equivalent meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-9769 (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 95LE) - Mopar P/N 05013457AA or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MTL) or equivalent meeting MS-9224 specification.
Transfer Case Fluid:
Mopar NV241 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent meeting MS-9224 specification (same as manual transmission fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for certain ABS components).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent meeting MS-5901 specification.
Common Issues 3 8L:
Potential for oil filter housing leaks, lifter tick on cold starts, exhaust manifold cracks (less common on JK than previous generations but possible).
Common Issues Transmission:
Manual transmission clutch wear, automatic transmission solenoids or valve body issues (less common on 42RLE than previous transmissions).
Common Issues Suspension:
Death wobble (a characteristic of solid axle vehicles that can be exacerbated by worn steering components, track bar, or control arm bushings), ball joint wear.
Common Issues Electrical:
Water intrusion into TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), leading to various electrical gremlins. Window motor failures, headlight switch issues.