Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops specializing in vintage Jeep vehicles
Competitors:
Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer, International Harvester Scout
Vehicle Selling Points:
Renowned off-road capability, rugged construction, iconic Jeep design
Manual Benefit:
Provides detailed, accurate, and authorized repair and maintenance information essential for preserving and repairing the 1978 Jeep CJ-7.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for all engine options
Transmission:
Service and repair for manual and automatic transmissions
Drivetrain:
Four-wheel drive system (transfer case, axles, differentials)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (drum/disc), hydraulic components
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, ignition system, lighting, accessories
Fuel:
Fuel delivery, carburetion (e.g., Rochester Quadrajet, Motorcraft 2150), fuel tank
Cooling:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, piping
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, convertible top
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for common and uncommon faults
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reassembly
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Diagnostics:
Specific diagnostic steps for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
File Type:
PDF (Assumed for digital versions)
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans (for PDF) allowing for clear reproduction of diagrams and text
Binding:
N/A (for digital); Typically spiral or perfect bound for printed versions
Paper Type:
N/A (for digital); Typically durable paper stock for printed workshop manuals
Engine Code:
Varies by trim/option (e.g., AMC 258, AMC 304, potentially others)
Displacement:
Commonly 4.2L (258 cu in) Inline-6, 5.0L (304 cu in) V8
Bore X Stroke:
Varies by engine (e.g., 258: 3.75 x 3.875 in)
Compression Ratio:
Varies by engine (e.g., 258: 8.0:1 or 8.3:1)
Horsepower:
Varies by engine (e.g., 258: ~110-125 HP, 304: ~150-170 HP)
Torque:
Varies by engine (e.g., 258: ~200-220 lb-ft, 304: ~240-265 lb-ft)
Carburetor:
Typically 1-barrel Rochester or Motorcraft carburetor (e.g., Rochester 2100/2150, Motorcraft 2150)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Conventional Breakerless Electronic Ignition (e.g., Motorcraft, Delco)
Transmission Type:
3-speed Manual (e.g., Warner T-18 or T-15A)
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic (e.g., Turbo Hydramatic 375 or 727)
Transfer Case:
Dana 20, 2-speed with part-time 4WD
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Wheelbase:
103.5 inches (2629 mm)
Length:
157.3 inches (4000 mm)
Width:
69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
65.2 inches (1656 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,600 lbs (1450 - 1630 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,700 - 5,000 lbs (2130 - 2270 kg)
Crash Test Data:
Limited standardized crash test data available for this era of light trucks/SUVs.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes (standard), Rear Drum Brakes. Power assist often optional.
Seat Belts:
Lap belts or Shoulder belts depending on configuration
Roll Cage:
Integral to the vehicle's structure, especially the windshield frame and roll bar.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise intervals).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check manually, typically every 24,000-36,000 miles.
Differential Fluid Change:
Typically every 24,000-36,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SF, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific engine and climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Varies by engine (e.g., 258 I6: 5 quarts with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based permanent antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Rust (especially body tub, frame, wheel wells), carburetor tuning, electrical gremlins, worn suspension bushings, steering box wear.
Recommended Upgrades Often Covered:
Modern ignition upgrades, carburetor conversion kits, suspension lift components, brake upgrades.
Jeep Legacy:
Direct descendant of the original WWII Willys Jeep, known for ruggedness and off-road prowess.
Cj Series Introduction:
The CJ series ran from 1945 to 1986, with the CJ-7 representing a significant modernization and extension of the CJ-5's platform.
Cj7 Introduction:
Introduced in 1976 as a larger, more comfortable successor to the CJ-5, offering a longer wheelbase.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Period:
CJ-7 produced from 1976 to 1986. 1978 model is early production.
