Market Position:
Essential resource for Jeep Cherokee XJ owners and technicians specializing in this iconic SUV, particularly for parts sourcing and identification in the aftermarket and for older models.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with other OEM and aftermarket parts catalogs for the XJ generation. Its value lies in its specific focus on the 1997-2001 model years, which saw significant updates.
Key Features:
Comprehensive parts listing, detailed diagrams, part number reference for the specified model years, ideal for repairs, restorations, and sourcing.
Major Systems:
Engine, Powertrain, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Cooling, Fuel, Exhaust, Electrical, Interior Components, Exterior Body Panels, Chassis Components, HVAC, Accessories
Included Procedures:
Part identification, part interchangeability (implied), component sourcing for repair/restoration
Technical Depth:
Detailed component breakdowns with part numbers and diagrams, suitable for parts sourcing and basic assembly/disassembly understanding.
Engine Type:
4.0L (242 ci) OHV Inline 6-cylinder (Primary for most XJs of these years)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.414 in (98.4 mm x 86.7 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.75:1
Horsepower Gross:
Approx. 185 hp @ 4700 rpm (for 1997-2001 models)
Torque Gross:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (for 1997-2001 models)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.0 US gallons (57 L)
Alternative Engine:
2.5L (150 ci) AMC 4-cylinder (Less common, primarily early XJs but potential for these years)
Alternative Engine Code:
APA (2.5L)
Transmission Type Std:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic (Common for 4.0L)
Transmission Type Opt:
NV3550 5-Speed Manual (Optional, particularly for 2000-2001 models with 4.0L)
Transmission Type Opt 2:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual (Older transmission, potentially phased out by 1997 but parts catalog might include).
Transfer Case Std:
Command-Trac NV231 (Part-time, 2WD/4WD)
Transfer Case Opt:
Selec-Trac NV242 (Full-time 4WD option)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 (Chrysler specification) or equivalent (e.g., Mopar ATF+3, Dexron III H)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90
Wheelbase:
103.4 inches (2626 mm)
Length:
164.1 inches (4168 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
63.9 inches (1623 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg), varies by configuration
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 32.6 cu ft (923 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for most configurations)
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated Disc Brakes; Rear: Disc or Drum Brakes (depending on trim/drivetrain)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Available ABS (Standard on some higher trims and later years)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on all models by 1999, likely on these years)
Seatbelts:
Front three-point seat belts with pretensioners, rear three-point seat belts
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player, optional Infinity Gold speaker system.
Display:
Analog gauges, basic digital odometer/trip meter.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most trims.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.
Connectivity Options:
Limited to basic audio inputs (cassette/CD). No Bluetooth or USB standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or 2-3 years for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API certified engine oil, viscosity grade 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L engine).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler's HOAT coolant (Orange), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issues Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (especially on earlier 4.0L, less common but possible on these years), oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Common Issues Transmission:
Valve body issues in 42RE (sometimes referred to as 'death wobble' in the transmission), clutch wear in manual transmissions.
Common Issues Suspension:
Death wobble (steering/suspension shimmy, often related to track bar, ball joints, tie rod ends, or control arm bushings), worn leaf spring bushings.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty clock spring in steering wheel, intermittent wiper issues, window regulator failures.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 51515, Fram PH8A, Mopar MO-090
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 42540, Fram CA2540
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
Not applicable for most XJ models of this era.
Brand Heritage:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for robust off-road capability and durable vehicles, dating back to its military origins in WWII.
Model Evolution:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its unibody construction, offering a lighter, more fuel-efficient, and more car-like ride than traditional body-on-frame SUVs. The 1997 redesign brought a smoother exterior, updated interior, and improved safety features.
Production Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years:
1984-2001
