Vehicle Class:
Compact SUV / Off-road Vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, professional mechanics.
Competitors 1997:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Jeep Cherokee Xj Appeal:
Renowned for its robust construction, iconic styling, and legendary off-road capability, particularly with its unibody construction offering a good balance of ride comfort and durability.
Primary Coverage:
All mechanical and electrical systems, body and chassis.
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostics, troubleshooting, maintenance, repair procedures, specifications.
Estimated Pages:
Over 1000 (based on typical factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, drive axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, body electrical, lighting, infotainment.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, wiring diagrams.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, timing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Code And Type:
4.0L (242 ci) OHV Inline-6 (PowerTech)
Engine Displacement:
3957 cc (242 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.56 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Horsepower:
185 hp @ 4700 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20.0 gallons (75.7 L)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or distributor-based systems depending on specific build date.
Alternator:
Various ratings, typically 90-136 Amps.
Battery:
Group 34/78 recommended, 600-700 CCA minimum.
Transmission Type 1997:
42RE 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Optional:
AX-15 5-Speed Manual (less common in later XJ years)
Transfer Case Options:
NV231 (Command-Trac part-time 4WD), NV242 (Selec-Trac full-time 4WD).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 (Mopar P/N 05010126AA) or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
AX-15: SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil.
Transfer Case Fluid:
NV231/NV242: Mopar 242-GH (Chrysler Manual Transmission Lubricant) or SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil.
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
70.3 inches (1786 mm)
Height:
63.6 inches (1615 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) depending on suspension and tire size.
Curb Weight Approx:
3300-3600 lbs (1497-1633 kg) depending on configuration.
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment.
Payload Capacity Max:
Approx. 1,100 lbs (499 kg).
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
1997 models may have partial frontal/side impact ratings available from NHTSA. Consult specific year testing for detailed scores.
ABS:
Available on some models, particularly 4WD. Rear-wheel ABS was common.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts; front shoulder belts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or optional CD player. Aftermarket head units common. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
ABS Availability:
Optional, typically on higher trims or 4WD models. Rear-wheel ABS standard on some configurations.
Factory Options:
Limited connectivity by modern standards. May include basic power accessories, cruise control. Not typically equipped with Bluetooth or advanced infotainment connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), more frequently for heavy-duty use. Check for filter replacement.
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for conventional plugs, or as specified for platinum/iridium plugs if fitted.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
API Certified SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L inline-6) or 5W-30 for colder climates. Consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations.
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) 10 Year/100,000 Mile Formula (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors appropriate for Chrysler engines).
Common Ailments:
Head gasket failures (especially on early 4.0L engines, less common by '97 but still a consideration), radiator leaks, heater core issues, exhaust manifold cracks, oil filter adapter leaks, rear main seal leaks, U-joint wear, front axle disconnect (vacuum system) issues on some models.
Typical Repairs Detailed:
Detailed procedures for replacing head gaskets, radiators, water pumps, thermostats, alternator belts, drive belts, spark plugs, fuel injectors, various sensors (e.g., crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor).
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles dating back to WWII. The Cherokee nameplate has been synonymous with this heritage.
Xj Generation:
Second generation (1984-1996) and final significant refresh phase for the XJ (1997-2001). The 1997 model saw major exterior styling updates (new front and rear fascias, fenders, hood) and interior revisions.
Assembly Locations:
Toledo, Ohio, USA; Beijing, China; Villa Lewis, Argentina.
Automotive Press Mentions:
The Cherokee XJ, including models from this era, has frequently been lauded by automotive publications for its off-road prowess, durability, and value, often appearing on 'best used SUV' or 'best off-roader' lists.
Jd Power Ratings:
Specific JD Power ratings for the 1997 model are difficult to ascertain without direct access to historical reports, but the XJ was generally well-regarded for its dependability in its class during its production run.
