Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road oriented SUV
Target Audience:
Off-road enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, owners seeking in-depth vehicle knowledge
Competitors 1999:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder
Unique Selling Proposition:
Renowned off-road capability, legendary inline-six engine, robust unibody construction
Iconic Engine:
4.0L "Power-Tech" Inline-6 (AMC 242)
Body Style:
2-door and 4-door (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Drivetrain Options:
Part-time 4WD (Command-Trac), Full-time 4WD (Selec-Trac)
Suspension Design:
Front solid axle, rear leaf springs (known for durability and articulation)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, component testing, diagnostics
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine management diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
NV3550, AX-15 (if applicable to '99 spec, though AX-15 phased out), rebuild procedures, component identification
Transmission Automatic:
AW4 (42RE), rebuild procedures, hydraulic control systems, electronic diagnostics
Transfer Case:
NP231, NP242 (Selec-Trac), disassembly, assembly, maintenance, repair
Axles And Differentials:
Dana 30 (front), Chrysler 8.25 (rear), Dana 44 (optional rear), bearing preloads, gear backlash, fluid specifications
Suspension Front:
Solid beam axle, leaf springs, shock absorbers, steering linkage, alignment specifications
Suspension Rear:
Leaf springs, shock absorbers, axle articulation
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering gear, tie rods, drag links, hydraulic pressure tests
Brake System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper/cylinder overhaul
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter replacement, EVAP system
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, flush and fill procedures
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, pipe routing, hanger replacement
HVAC System:
Air conditioning compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, controls
Interior Electrical:
Dashboard instruments, lighting, power windows, power locks, seat controls, audio system
Exterior Electrical:
Headlights, taillights, turn signals, mirrors, wiper system, horn
Body And Frame:
Unibody construction, door mechanisms, tailgate, panel replacement, rust prevention
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), child seat anchors
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, axle servicing
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic charts, common fault identification, symptom-based troubleshooting
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor components
Diagnostic Testing:
Specifications for electrical tests, pressure tests, vacuum tests, resistance checks
Tune Up Procedures:
Spark plug replacement, ignition timing, fuel system cleaning
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, throttle cable adjustment
Body Work And Refinishing:
Panel alignment, trim piece removal and installation, basic body repair guidance
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and advanced diagnostics
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail with exploded views, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for automatic transmissions.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
4.0L I6: Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum plugs. 2.5L I4: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with copper plugs.
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km).
Engine Coolant:
50/50 mix of Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-7170) and distilled water, or equivalent HOAT coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF
Differential Fluid Front:
Dana 30: SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil. Add friction modifier if limited-slip. Capacity: ~1.5 quarts.
Differential Fluid Rear:
Chrysler 8.25: SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil. Capacity: ~2.25 quarts. Dana 44: SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil. Add friction modifier if limited-slip. Capacity: ~2.75 quarts.
Common Issues Engine:
Cracked cylinder heads (less common on later 4.0L engines), oil filter adapter leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Common Issues Transmission:
AW4 transmission cooler line leaks, solenoids in automatic transmissions.
Common Issues Suspension:
Leaf spring sag, worn bushings, track bar wear (on some models), steering box play.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window motor failures, headlight switch issues, grounds in the wiring harness, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure on 4.0L.
Common Issues Body:
Rust, particularly in rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and around wheel wells. Door seal deterioration.