🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Year:

1985

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV/Off-Road Vehicle

Brand Perception:

Rugged, capable, off-road heritage

Key Competitors 1985:

Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Toyota 4Runner

Unibody Construction:

Pioneering unibody construction for a lighter and more car-like ride in an SUV

Four Wheel Drive:

Available Command-Trac and Selec-Trac 4WD systems

Engine Options:

Robust inline-four and inline-six engine choices

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, assumed from typical sales)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All major engine systems (e.g., fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control)

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic Transmission repair and overhaul

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive system (Command-Trac/Selec-Trac), transfer case, differentials, axles, driveshafts

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, steering linkage, shock absorbers, springs

Brakes:

Brake system components (discs, drums, master cylinder, calipers, lines), parking brake

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, electrical components, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system

Body:

Body construction, panels, doors, windows, interior trim, body repair procedures

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding guides

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems

Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and transfer case overhauls

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances for all components

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Assumed)

Searchable:

Yes (Assumed for digital format)

Printable:

Yes (Assumed for digital format)

Image Resolution:

High (for clear diagrams and photos, if included)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

AMC 2.5L I4 (150 cu. in.)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 105 hp @ 4,800 RPM

Torque 1:

Approx. 132 lb-ft @ 2,400 RPM

Fuel System 1:

Fuel Injection (Renix system)

Engine Code 2:

AMC 4.0L I6 (242 cu. in.)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 140 hp @ 4,000 RPM

Torque 2:

Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 2,000 RPM

Fuel System 2:

Fuel Injection (Renix system)

Compression Ratio 1:

8.2:1 (2.5L I4)

Compression Ratio 2:

8.8:1 (4.0L I6)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-Speed Manual (e.g., AX-4)

Transmission Type Opt:

3-Speed Automatic (e.g., AW4)

Transfer Case Options:

2WD, Command-Trac (part-time 4WD), Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity may vary, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF Dexron-III (check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.5 inches (2578 mm)

Length:

Approx. 160.1 inches (4067 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.4 inches (1610 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,000-3,400 lbs (1360-1542 kg), depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1985:

NHTSA rating data for 1985 vehicles is often incomplete or not directly comparable to modern standards. Consult specific recall data for potential issues.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, limited speaker configurations

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or widely available option in 1985 for the Cherokee XJ.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era, check manual for exact spec)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-30 API SG or higher (check manual for exact spec)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid

Common Issue 1:

Renix fuel injection system issues (e.g., injector pulse issues, MAP sensor problems)

Common Issue 2:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump)

Common Issue 3:

Leaf spring perches cracking (rear suspension, especially under heavy use)

Common Issue 4:

Interior electrical gremlins (door locks, power windows if equipped)

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Built on Jeep's long history of robust, off-road capable vehicles, stemming from the original Willys MB.

Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced for the 1984 model year, was a revolutionary vehicle for Jeep, marking the transition from body-on-frame to a unibody construction for their SUV lineup.

1985 Updates:

Minor revisions from the 1984 model, with a focus on refining the initial offerings. The 4.0L inline-six engine became a significant option, offering improved performance.

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

The Jeep Cherokee XJ (including the 1985 model) was widely praised for its innovative unibody design and off-road capabilities, earning it numerous accolades in off-road and automotive publications throughout its lifespan.