🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee

Model Code:

XJ

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle

Key Competitors 1997:

Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Blazer

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust unibody construction, legendary off-road capability (especially with Command-Trac/Selec-Trac and Dana axles), durable powertrains, practical utility.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth technical guidance for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Documentation Scope:

Complete Factory Service, Repair, and Workshop Manual

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine mechanical (including disassembly, assembly, inspection), Fuel system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission (AX-5, AX-15), Automatic transmission (AW4, Select-Shift), Transfer case (NP231 Command-Trac, NP242 Selec-Trac), Drive axles (Dana 30 front, Dana 35 rear, Chrysler 8.25 rear), Driveshafts, Wheel bearings

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front suspension (leaf spring, solid axle), Rear suspension (leaf spring), Steering system (power steering pump, steering gear), Shocks and struts, Ball joints, Tie rod ends

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes, Parking brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped

Electrical Systems:

12-volt battery system, Charging system (alternator), Starting system (starter motor), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses and relays, Wiring diagrams, Instrument cluster, Power windows and locks, Audio system

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Frame, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Tire rotations, Brake inspections, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspections and replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Clutch replacement, Differential service, Brake caliper and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and repair, HVAC system repair

Troubleshooting Guidance:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Component testing procedures

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, Wear limits for critical components, Clearances and adjustments

Diagnostic Capability:

Comprehensive diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretations, On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures

Rebuild Instructions:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque sequences and clearances.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical system wiring diagrams for all major systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text and vector graphics where available.

Printable:

Printable pages for on-site use.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

4.0L Inline-6 OHV 'High Output' (6-242)

Engine Displacement 1:

3956 cc (242 cubic inches)

Engine Bore Stroke 1:

3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Horsepower 1:

190 hp @ 4750 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

235 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Induction 1:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type 1:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline

Engine Type 2:

2.5L Inline-4 OHV (4-150)

Engine Displacement 2:

2469 cc (150 cubic inches)

Horsepower 2:

121 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2:

147 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approx.)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual (AX-15 on 4.0L, AX-5 on 2.5L)

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (AW4)

Transfer Case Options:

NP231 Command-Trac (2WD High, 4WD High, Neutral, 4WD Low), NP242 Selec-Trac (2WD High, 4WD High Part-Time, 4WD High Full-Time, Neutral, 4WD Low)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 (MS-7176D) or equivalent

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify specific type for AX-5/AX-15)

Transfer Case Fluid:

NP231/NP242: ATF+3 (MS-7176D) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2576 mm)

Length:

167.5 inches (4255 mm)

Width:

71.0 inches (1803 mm)

Height:

64.4 inches (1636 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3400 - 3800 lbs (1542 - 1724 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

4700 - 4900 lbs (2132 - 2223 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

33.8 cu ft (0.96 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

71.0 cu ft (2.01 m³)

Standard Wheel Size:

15 x 7 inch steel or alloy

Standard Tire Size:

P215/75R15 or P225/75R15

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 4.5 inch (5x114.3 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:

Three-star (for 1997 models)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts with pretensioners, three-point rear seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

Rear LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system (availability may vary).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on 4-wheel disc brake models (if equipped, manual covers specific diagnosis).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.

ABS Availability:

Optional on certain models, primarily with 4-wheel disc brakes.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II compliant for engine and emissions diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (for conventional oil); consider longer intervals with synthetic oil as per manual recommendation.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement 4.0L:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (OEM copper plugs); longer with platinum or iridium plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for automatic transmissions, or sooner under severe driving conditions.

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations and viscosity index). Synthetic 10W-30 or 5W-30 often recommended for improved performance and longevity.

Engine Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange) or equivalent compatible coolant. Consult manual for exact specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 (MS-7176D) or equivalent.

Common Wear Items:

Leaf spring bushings, track bar bushings, U-joints, water pump, alternator, radiator, headliner sag (interior fabric).

4.0L Engine Concerns:

Crankshaft position sensor failures, rear main seal leaks, cracked cylinder heads (less common on later models).

Electrical Issues:

Headlight switch failures, intermittent wiper issues, fuse box corrosion.

Comprehensive Intervals:

The manual provides detailed intervals for all major maintenance items, including checks, replacements, and fluid changes, tailored for different driving conditions.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep's heritage is rooted in rugged, go-anywhere capability, a reputation built through military vehicles and iconic models like the CJ and Wrangler.

Cherokee Xj Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee, introduced for the 1984 model year, revolutionized the SUV market with its unibody construction, offering a lighter, more car-like ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

1997 Facelift:

The 1997 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the XJ, including revised exterior styling (new grille, headlights, front fenders, hood, and rear liftgate), updated interior with a new dashboard and improved ergonomics, and enhanced safety features.

Production Period:

1984-2001 (North America)

Manufacturing Locations:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:

While the XJ was not the direct recipient of the 'SUV of the Year' award in 1997, it was consistently lauded for its off-road prowess and value in automotive reviews throughout its lifespan.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally rated as a good to excellent vehicle for reliability and performance in its class, particularly the 4.0L engine.