Original Market:
Full-size, body-on-frame SUV popular for off-road capability and utility.
Competitors 1979:
Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer/K5 Blazer, Dodge Ramcharger.
Off Road Capability:
Renowned for its robust 4WD system, high ground clearance, and durable construction.
Utility:
Versatile vehicle for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and work purposes.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory information for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 1979 Jeep Cherokee Wide Track Sport.
Engine:
Detailed information on engine diagnostics, overhaul, and component repair.
Transmission:
Coverage of manual and automatic transmission systems, including maintenance and repair.
Drivetrain:
Focus on 4-wheel drive system, transfer case, axles, and driveshafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Service and repair for brake systems, including drums, discs, and hydraulic components.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, ignition system, and lighting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Rochester Quadrajet or similar), fuel pump, and fuel lines.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and fan clutch service.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter (if applicable for '79 emissions), muffler, and pipe maintenance.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, and frame inspection.
Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard components, and trim panel service.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, and fault finding.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures.
Adjustment:
Adjustments for carburetor, brakes, clutch, and other systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, and critical measurement data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all circuits.
Depth:
Factory-level detail for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Resolution:
High quality, allowing for clear printing of text and diagrams.
Binding:
Not applicable for PDF, but designed for easy printing and binding.
Paper Recommendation:
Standard printer paper (8.5" x 11" or A4) suitable for printing.
Text Search:
Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.
Engine Options Likely:
Could include AMC 258 cu in (4.2L) inline-6 or AMC 360 cu in (5.9L) V8.
Horsepower Range Estimated:
Approx. 110-125 hp for 4.2L, 170-195 hp for 5.9L (specific figures vary by year and tune).
Torque Range Estimated:
Approx. 200-220 lb-ft for 4.2L, 280-320 lb-ft for 5.9L.
Carburetor Type:
Likely a 2-barrel or 4-barrel carburetor (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Cooling Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system.
Ignition Type:
Conventional breaker point ignition or early electronic ignition (e.g., Prestolite).
Standard Transmission Likely:
3-speed manual transmission (e.g., SM400).
Optional Transmission Likely:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Turbo Hydramatic 350/400).
Transfer Case:
New Process 208 or similar full-time 4WD transfer case (specific to Wide Track designation).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Likely Dexron-III or equivalent (check specific manual for exact spec).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 80W-90).
Crash Test Data:
Limited formal crash test data available for this era of vehicle compared to modern standards.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist likely standard.
Steering:
Power steering typically standard for this model and era.
Seatbelts:
Lap and shoulder belts likely standard in front.
Rollover Protection:
Body-on-frame construction provides inherent structural integrity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact '79 specs).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points, and condenser every 15,000-25,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SF rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze and water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron-II or Dexron-III.
Common Problems 1979:
Rust (especially wheel wells, rocker panels, tailgate), carburetor tuning issues, aging electrical components, worn suspension bushings.
Oil Filter Example:
e.g., Fram PH8A, Wix 51085 (verify for specific engine).
Air Filter Example:
e.g., Fram CA1031PL (verify for specific engine).
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep is synonymous with off-road prowess and durable utility vehicles, tracing its roots back to WWII.
Cherokee Nj:
The original SJ Cherokee (1974-1983) was a pioneering full-size SUV, known for its comfortable ride and off-road capabilities.
Wide Track Significance:
The 'Wide Track' designation typically referred to specific axle and wheel configurations designed to widen the stance for improved stability, particularly off-road.
Manufacturer:
American Motors Corporation (AMC) during this period.