🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Trim:

Wide Track Sport

Year:

1979

Generation Designation:

SJ

Vin Prefix:

J

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle

Vehicle Positioning:

Rugged, capable off-road vehicle with a focus on utility and sportiness

Key Competitors:

Early competitors would include vehicles like the Chevrolet Blazer, Ford Bronco, and Toyota Land Cruiser, though the Cherokee carved its own niche with unibody construction and a more car-like ride for some trims.

Body Style:

Two-door SUV (typical for this era, though 4-door models also existed under the Cherokee nameplate)

Drivetrain:

Command-Trac 4x4 system (or likely optional 2WD for some models)

Design Philosophy:

Rugged durability combined with increasing comfort and utility features

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service Repair:

Included

Transmission Service Repair:

Included

Brake System:

Included

Wiring Diagrams:

Included

Electrical System:

Included

Suspension:

Included

Steering:

Included

Cooling System:

Included

Fuel System Injection:

Included

Emission Control System:

Included

Heater Air Conditioning:

Included

Engine Control System:

Included

Chassis Body:

Included

Restraint System:

Included

Interior Trim:

Included

Differential Drive Axle:

Included

General Maintenance:

Included

Troubleshooting:

Included

Periodic Lubrication:

Included

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with numbered procedures

Diagnostic Procedures:

Comprehensive diagnostic information for various systems

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine and preventative maintenance tasks

Troubleshooting Guides:

Guides for identifying and resolving common and complex issues

Disassembly Assembly:

Included

Cleaning Reinstalling:

Included

Depth Of Information:

Professional-level detail, same used by local service/repair shops

Diagrams Illustrations:

Hundreds of diagrams, detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos

Critical Information:

Notes, cautions, and warnings pinpoint critical information

Tool Requirements:

Specifies required tools for repairs

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Capability:

Zoom IN/OUT functionality

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely offered with AMC inline-six and V8 engines. Common options for 1979 included: AMC 258 cu in (4.2L) I6, AMC 304 cu in (5.0L) V8, AMC 360 cu in (5.9L) V8.

Horsepower Torque Specifications:

Varies significantly by engine option. For example, the 4.2L I6 typically produced around 112 hp, while the 5.9L V8 could produce upwards of 175-195 hp, depending on the specific tune and emissions equipment.

Fuel Delivery:

Primarily carbureted, with various Rochester Quadrajet or Motorcraft 2-barrel or 4-barrel carburetors depending on the engine and emissions package.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely the 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Turbo Hydramatic 350 or 400, depending on AMC/GM sourcing).

Optional Transmission:

Manual transmissions were also available, such as the 3-speed manual or the 4-speed manual (e.g., T18 or T-15A).

Transfer Case:

Dana 20 or NP208 (depending on exact configuration and option packages) providing 2WD and 4WD Hi/Lo range.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104 inches (2642 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177-180 inches (4496-4572 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70-74 inches (1778-1880 mm), 'Wide Track' designation implies a wider stance than standard models.

Height:

Approx. 63-65 inches (1600-1651 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,800 - 4,400 lbs (1724 - 2000 kg), depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Ratings:

No formal government crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA) as understood today existed for vehicles of this era. Safety features were more basic.

Active Safety Features:

Power front disc brakes, possibly optional power steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts, reinforced body structure, possibly padded dashboard and steering wheel.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette player as an option. Basic speaker setup.

Driver Assistance Features:

Minimal to none by modern standards. Features like power steering and power brakes were considered advanced.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult specific manual for exact mileage.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, points (if applicable), and timing adjustments usually recommended around 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

Viscosity typically 10W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate. Refer to manual for specific API service classification (e.g., SE).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Jeep/AMC coolant or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF Type A Suffix A or DEXRON II for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil) depending on transmission model.

Common Problems 1979 Cherokee:

Rust (especially in lower body panels, wheel wells, and frame components), carburetor tuning issues, ignition system (points/condenser wear), exhaust manifold leaks, rear main seal leaks, power steering pump leaks, aging electrical components.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a long and storied history rooted in military vehicles, known for ruggedness and off-road capability.

Cherokee Sj Evolution:

The SJ Cherokee, introduced in 1974, was built on the full-size Jeep Wagoneer platform, offering a more upscale and comfortable experience than earlier Jeeps. The 'Wide Track' was a specific performance or appearance package enhancing its stance.

Manufacturer:

American Motors Corporation (AMC), which owned Jeep at the time.

Production Period:

The SJ Cherokee was produced from 1974 to 1983.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

While specific awards for the 1979 model year are not readily documented, the SJ Cherokee (and its Wagoneer sibling) was recognized for its off-road prowess and comfort, helping to define the modern SUV segment.