🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee, CJ5, CJ7, J10, J20

Year:

1979

Vehicle Code:

CJ-5, CJ-7, J-10, J-20

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for owners and enthusiasts of the 1979 Jeep Cherokee, CJ5, CJ7, J10, and J20, offering factory-level repair and maintenance information.

Competitors:

Direct competitor to any third-party repair guides, offering superior accuracy and completeness due to its 'Actual Genuine Repair Service Factory Manual' status.

Features:

Official factory content, step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations/diagrams, troubleshooting guides, high resolution, printable, searchable PDF.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All styles and configurations for the specified models and year.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle.

Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, rebuilding, refurbishing, restoration, tuning, electrical system diagnosis and repair.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering fundamental maintenance to advanced diagnostics and repair, equivalent to professional technician knowledge.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Printability:

Printable without restriction; individual pages or entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - Printable)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1979:

Likely includes inline-6 (e.g., 258 cu in / 4.2L) and V8 (e.g., 304 cu in / 5.0L, 360 cu in / 5.9L) options depending on model and trim. Specific cubic inch and liter displacements would be detailed within the manual.

Horsepower Torque:

Specific horsepower and torque figures for each engine variant will be detailed in the manual. For context, a 258 cu in inline-6 typically produced around 110-115 hp, while V8s offered higher output.

Fuel Delivery:

Manual covers carburetor-based fuel systems for most 1979 models. May include details on specific carburetor models (e.g., Motorcraft 2150, Rochester Quadrajet) and fuel pump operation. Fuel injection was less common on these models in 1979 but might be covered if applicable to specific late-production variants.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely includes manual transmissions such as the T-90, T-98, or SM465 (4-speed) depending on the specific vehicle model and application.

Optional Transmission:

Automatic transmissions such as the TH350 or TH400 (3-speed) were commonly available options.

Transmission Coverage:

Detailed repair, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions, including fluid types and capacities.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Lengths:

Varies by model: CJ-5 (approx. 84 inches), CJ-7 (approx. 103.5 inches), J-Series trucks (approx. 119-131 inches). Exterior dimensions like length, width, and height are model-specific and will be in the manual.

Curb Weight:

Curb weight varies significantly by model and configuration, generally ranging from approximately 3,000 lbs for CJ-5 models to over 4,500 lbs for heavier duty J-20 trucks. Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) will also be detailed.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings 1979:

Safety standards and testing for 1979 vehicles did not include the modern NCAP ratings. Manuals of this era would focus on occupant protection systems available at the time, such as seat belts and steering column design.

Active Safety:

Includes coverage of braking systems, steering systems, and suspension for maintaining vehicle control. Likely covers power steering and power brake systems if equipped.

Passive Safety:

Covers seat belt systems, steering column design, and body structure considerations for occupant protection. The 'Restraint System' section is key here.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Infotainment systems in 1979 were basic, typically consisting of an AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette deck. The manual would cover radio removal, installation, and speaker wiring.

Driver Assistance Features:

Driver assistance features were rudimentary or non-existent in 1979. The manual would focus on mechanical systems for vehicle control (brakes, steering) rather than electronic aids.

Connectivity Features:

No electronic connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports were available. The manual's 'Electrical System' and 'Wiring Diagram' sections would cover basic wiring for accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Recommended Intervals:

The manual will detail specific service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, and tune-ups. These would typically be based on mileage (e.g., 3,000-5,000 miles for oil changes) and time.

Fluid Types:

Will specify engine oil viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 20W-50 depending on climate and engine), coolant type (conventional green antifreeze), brake fluid type (DOT 3), transmission fluid type (e.g., Dexron for automatics, gear oil for manuals), differential fluid (e.g., 80W-90), power steering fluid, and chassis grease types.

Common 1979 Jeep Issues:

Common issues for this era may include carburetor tuning problems, fuel system leaks, rust/corrosion (especially in the body and frame), suspension wear (bushings, leaf springs), aging electrical components, and potential overheating issues if the cooling system is not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Heritage:

Jeep, a brand with deep military roots dating back to WWII, is synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness. The CJ series represents the civilian evolution of the original Jeep utility vehicles.

Cj Evolution:

The CJ-5, introduced in 1955, was a long-running and iconic model. The CJ-7, introduced in 1976, offered a longer wheelbase and improved comfort. The J-Series trucks (J10, J20) were Jeep's full-size pickup offerings, built on a truck chassis and known for their utility and off-road prowess.

1979 Production Context:

1979 marked a period where Jeep was owned by AMC (American Motors Corporation), which influenced design and engineering. The CJ models were highly popular for recreational off-roading, while the J-Series served as robust work trucks.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Awards:

While specific awards for the 1979 models might not be readily available, Jeep as a brand consistently earns accolades for off-road capability and durability. The CJ series is often celebrated in enthusiast circles for its iconic status.