🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee XJ

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

XJ

Engine Codes:

2.5L AMC 150, 4.0L AMC 242

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road utility vehicle

Reputation:

Renowned for its ruggedness, off-road capability, and versatility. The XJ is a highly sought-after vehicle for off-roading and as a reliable daily driver.

Competitors 1997:

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

Design Philosophy:

Unibody construction (a pioneering feature in its class), compact size, excellent approach/departure angles, robust drivetrain options.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking an off-road capable vehicle, individuals needing a versatile and durable SUV, DIY mechanics.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ (all trims and configurations)

Engine Coverage:

2.5L I4 (AMC 150), 4.0L I6 (AMC 242)

Transmission Coverage:

42RE Automatic, NV3550 Manual

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.5L & 4.0L), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Transfer Case, Drivetrain (Front & Rear Axles, Driveshafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Body Electrical System, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Audio System, Power Accessories, HVAC System, Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams

Body:

Body Exterior (Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate), Body Interior (Trim, Seats), Bumpers, Glass, Convertible Top (if applicable), Frame and Unibody Structure

Maintenance:

Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, transfer case fluid, axle fluid), Filter replacements, Lubrication, Spark plug replacement, Belt replacement, Wiper blade replacement

Repair:

Engine overhaul, Cylinder head repair, Fuel injector replacement, Water pump replacement, Thermostat replacement, Radiator replacement, Brake pad/rotor replacement, Caliper rebuild, Suspension component replacement (shocks, springs, control arms), Steering linkage repair, CV axle replacement, Driveshaft repair, Transfer case rebuild, Transmission repair (automatic and manual), Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical system diagnostics, Engine performance diagnostics, Transmission performance diagnostics, HVAC system troubleshooting

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, Clearances and tolerances, Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) definitions and repair procedures, Wiring diagrams, Component locations, Technical service bulletins (TSBs) relevant to the model year

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allows for quick navigation and keyword finding)

Resolution:

High resolution (suitable for printing)

Readability:

Clear diagrams, schematics, and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine 1 Power:

Approx. 125 horsepower @ 4,600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)

Engine 2 Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine 2 Power:

Approx. 190 horsepower @ 4,750 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 3,300 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) - Coil-on-plug (on some later models, but 1997 likely uses distributor)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

NV3550 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

42RE 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transfer Case Options:

Command-Trac NV231 (part-time, 2WD high, 4WD high, 4WD low) / Selec-Trac NV242 (full-time 4WD, 2WD high, 4WD high, 4WD low, Neutral) - *Manual will specify which is covered or if both are.*

Transfer Case Fluid Spec:

ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon) for NV231; NP-242 may also use ATF+4

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

101.4 inches (2,576 mm)

Length:

167.1 inches (4,244 mm)

Width:

69.9 inches (1,775 mm)

Height:

63.4 inches (1,610 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Varies by suspension and tire size, typically 8-10 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,200 - 3,500 lbs (1,451 - 1,588 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,700 - 5,000 lbs (2,132 - 2,268 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 33.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 69 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Four-star rating (for specific configurations, consult NHTSA archives)

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (4-wheel ABS optional on some trims)

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional on select models/trims

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available. Speaker configurations vary by trim.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front wheels only for 1997. Rear-wheel ABS was not common.

OBD Ii:

Compliant with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) standards, allowing for diagnostic code reading with compatible scanners.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact spec based on oil type used).

Engine Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual: Inspect as needed, change if service history is unknown.

Transfer Case Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles

Axle Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (or more frequently for severe use/off-roading)

Engine Oil Spec 2.5L:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity recommendation based on climate)

Engine Oil Spec 4.0L:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 (check manual for exact viscosity recommendation based on climate)

Coolant Spec:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (5/150) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically a green long-life type for this era)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Common Problems Engine 4.0L:

Head gasket failure (especially earlier years, but can still occur), oil filter adapter housing leaks, crankshaft position sensor (CKP) failure, camshaft position sensor (CMP) failure, exhaust manifold cracks.

Common Problems Engine 2.5L:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, potential oil pressure issues if not maintained.

Common Problems Transmission:

42RE: Torque converter issues, solenoid pack failure, overdrive band failure. NV3550: Clutch wear, input shaft bearing issues.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn control arm bushings, worn ball joints, worn tie rod ends, death wobble (can be caused by worn steering components or track bar).

Common Problems Electrical:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, instrument cluster issues, CPS/CPS sensor failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Jeep has a storied history rooted in military vehicles, renowned for unparalleled off-road prowess and ruggedness since its inception in the 1940s.

Xj Introduction:

The Jeep Cherokee (XJ) was introduced in 1984, revolutionizing the SUV market with its unibody construction, offering a lighter, more car-like ride while retaining off-road capability.

Xj Generation:

This manual covers the second generation of the XJ Cherokee (1997-2001), which received a significant facelift and interior update.

1997 Updates:

Key updates for 1997 included a revised exterior with new front and rear fascias, updated interior with a new dashboard and improved ergonomics, and optional ABS brakes.

Production Period:

1984-2001

Manufacturer:

Chrysler Corporation (which acquired American Motors Corporation, the original manufacturer of the XJ)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Acclaim:

Consistently praised in automotive publications and by off-road enthusiasts for its off-road capability, often cited as a benchmark in its class.

Customer Satisfaction Driver:

Generally high customer satisfaction for its durability and off-road prowess, though minor electrical and interior component issues can affect overall ratings.