Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, Jeep owners seeking detailed technical information.
Competitors:
Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder.
Vehicle Strengths:
Robust build quality, excellent off-road capability, classic Jeep styling, reliable powertrains.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving money and extending vehicle life. Essential for diagnosing and fixing issues specific to this generation.
Repair Focus:
Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and diagnostics.
Systems Scope:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical, HVAC, body, interior, diagnostics.
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (typical for a comprehensive service manual covering multiple years and configurations).
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions controls, engine mechanical components, engine electrical.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., AX-15, NV3550, AW4, NP231, NP242), clutches, differentials, transfer cases, axles, driveshafts, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (leaf springs, coil springs, U-joints, sway bars), steering system (power steering pump, steering gear/rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS (if equipped), parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, power windows, power locks, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, body control modules.
HVAC Body Interior:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim, rust repair.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, tune-ups, belt and hose replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, starter and alternator replacement, radiator replacement, fuel pump replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, cooling system issues, brake problems.
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, exploded views, overhaul procedures.
Engine Type 1:
4.0L Inline-6 (242 ci) OHV
Horsepower 1:
Approx. 190 hp @ 4,600 rpm
Torque 1:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm
Engine Type 2:
2.5L Inline-4 (150 ci) OHV
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4,500 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Crankshaft Position Sensor
Type 1:
4-Speed Automatic (AW4)
Type 2:
5-Speed Manual (AX-15 / NV3550)
Type:
N/A (These were the primary offerings)
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD), Command-Trac (part-time 4WD - NP231), NP242 (full-time 4WD option)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar) or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-3 or GL-4 rated gear oil (e.g., 75W-90).
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2,576 mm)
Length:
Approx. 170.1 inches (4,320 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.4 inches (1,788 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.4 inches (1,610 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1,451 - 1,633 kg) depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when properly equipped.
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 800 - 1,000 lbs (363 - 454 kg).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Four stars (1997-2001 models).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Four stars (1997-2001 models).
ABS:
Available on select models and trims.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard).
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, shoulder belts with inertia reels.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette or CD players, optional premium sound systems.
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature; warning lights for oil pressure, battery, check engine.
ABS:
Available anti-lock braking system for improved stopping control.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for automatic, as needed for manual based on condition.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API service category SG, SH, SJ or higher).
Engine Coolant Type:
Chrysler Mopar OAT (Olds) or HOAT (Hybrid) Antifreeze/Coolant, green color, ethylene glycol base.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar power steering fluid.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially early 4.0L models), oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, cracked exhaust manifolds (4.0L), distributorless ignition system (DIS) coil pack failures.
Transmission Common Problems:
AW4 transmission solenoids can fail, clutch wear on manual transmissions, transfer case chain stretch/wear (NP231).
Suspension Steering Common Problems:
Worn control arm bushings, sway bar links, tie rod ends, and steering box play/leaks.
Electrical Common Problems:
Window regulator failures, dashboard warning light issues, intermittent electrical connections, C101 connector corrosion (engine harness).
Body Common Problems:
Rust in rocker panels, floor pans, rear quarter panels, and tailgate.
Jeep Legacy:
Founded on military Jeep vehicles, known for ruggedness and off-road prowess.
Xj Introduction:
Introduced in 1984, the XJ revolutionized the SUV market as the first mass-produced unibody SUV. The 1997-2001 models represent the second generation with significant updates.
1997 Facelift Features:
Revised exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, fenders, hood), updated interior (dashboard, seats), improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) reduction, introduction of the NP242 transfer case as an option.
Production Years:
1984-2001 (global markets, with North American production ending in 2001).
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
Offroad Magazine Awards:
Frequently recognized for off-road capability and value by automotive publications.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varied ratings depending on the year, but often praised for durability and capability.
Jeep Cherokee Xj Reputation:
Considered an icon in the compact SUV segment, highly regarded by enthusiasts for its off-road prowess and customization potential.
