🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Comanche

Year:

1988

Vehicle Body Style:

Pickup Truck

Chassis Code:

XJ (light truck platform)

Vin Code:

1J4

Generation:

First Generation (SJ/XJ platform based)

Generation Years:

1986-1992

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Pickup Truck

Competitors 1988:

Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10/Blazer, Toyota Pickup, Nissan Hardbody

Jeep Comanche Advantage:

Renowned Jeep off-road capability, rugged XJ-based unibody construction, available straight-six engine for power.

Key Features Manual:

Authoritative OEM content, detailed illustrations, step-by-step repair guidance, comprehensive system coverage.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant labor costs compared to dealership service. Offers deep understanding of vehicle systems for informed decisions.

Digital Advantage:

Print-on-demand flexibility, instant access, ability to back up for data security (unlike some DRM-restricted manuals).

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

1988 Jeep Cherokee, Comanche, Wagoneer, Wrangler

Engine Coverage:

2.5L AMC I4, 4.0L AMC I6

Transmission Coverage:

4-speed automatic (AW4), 5-speed manual (AX-5, AX-15)

Drivetrain Coverage:

2WD, 4WD (Command-Trac, Selec-Trac)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typical factory service manuals exceed 800 pages)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Intended Audience:

Dealership Technicians, Professional Mechanics, Enthusiast DIYers

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (.PDF)

Delivery Method:

CD-ROM ONLY (Original, enhanced digital delivery)

Digital Features:

Printable, Searchable Text, Zoomable

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel, Engine Cooling, Engine Lubrication, Engine Ignition, Emission Control, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires, Driveline (Axles, Driveshafts)

Electrical:

Battery, Starting System, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior), Instrument Panel Systems, Audio Systems, Horn Systems, Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Systems, Wipers and Washer Systems, Vehicle Speed Control System, Passive Restraint Systems, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Lock Systems, Power Window Systems, Power Mirror Systems, Chime/Buzzer Warning Systems, Overhead Console Systems

Body:

Frame and Bumpers, Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Seating

Comfort And Climate:

Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting Charts, Symptom-based Diagnosis, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams for Electrical Diagnostics

Repair Procedures:

Component Removal and Installation, Component Disassembly and Assembly, Reassembly Steps with Torque Specifications

Maintenance Procedures:

Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Schedules, Belt and Hose Inspection/Replacement

Technical Specifications:

Torque Values, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications, Performance Data

Depth:

Comprehensive Factory Level Detail

Illustrations:

Photographs, Exploded Views, Line Drawings, Wiring Diagrams

Diagnostic Tools:

Mentions of required special tools, although specific tool part numbers might not be listed for generic tools.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

.PDF

Required Software:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (latest version recommended)

Printability:

High Resolution, Suitable for Professional Printing

Binding Type Digital:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type Digital:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

2.5L AMC I4 (4-2.5L)

Engine 1 Description:

Overhead Valve (OHV) inline four-cylinder

Engine 1 Hp:

119 hp @ 4,000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

173 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm

Engine 2:

4.0L AMC I6 (4.0L)

Engine 2 Description:

Overhead Valve (OHV) inline six-cylinder, renowned for its torque and durability

Engine 2 Hp:

177 hp @ 4,000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-port fuel injection

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition, distributorless ignition system (DIS) on some later models, but likely distributor for '88

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (AX-5 or AX-15)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (AW4 - Chrysler/Aisin Warner collaboration)

Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:

ATF+3 (Chrysler spec, equivalent to Dexron II/III in practice for this era)

Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:

GL-3 or GL-4 gear oil (typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transfer Case Options:

Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-time) or Command-Trac (4WD Part-time)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

113.0 inches (2870 mm)

Overall Length:

174.7 inches (4437 mm) (Short Bed)

Overall Width:

70.3 inches (1786 mm)

Overall Height:

65.9 inches (1674 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity Approx:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment and engine

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Not comprehensively rated by modern standards, but generally considered robust for its era.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc or front disc/rear drum brakes depending on configuration, Power steering

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder front, lap rear), Energy-absorbing steering column

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Type:

Basic AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player (optional CD player might have been available on higher trims).

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers, depending on trim level.

Driver Assistance Features:

Vehicle Speed Control (Cruise Control) available as an option.

Connectivity Features:

Minimal by modern standards. Primarily manual controls for HVAC and audio.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for this era, consult manual for specific synthetic oil recommendations if applicable).

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (using conventional green coolant).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:

Every 60,000 miles or as needed.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 (check owner's manual for temperature ranges and viscosity variations).

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) - Ethylene Glycol based

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid

Common Issue 1:

Radiator leaks (especially plastic end tanks on original radiators).

Common Issue 2:

Water pump failures.

Common Issue 3:

Leaf spring U-bolt loosening or breakage under heavy load.

Common Issue 4:

Cracked cylinder heads on early 4.0L I6 engines (though less common on 1988 models compared to earlier years).

Common Issue 5:

Aging electrical connectors and grounds causing intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Heritage:

Jeep's legacy is deeply rooted in off-road prowess and utility, dating back to World War II. The Comanche carried this reputation forward into the light truck segment.

Comanche Introduction:

Introduced in 1986 as Jeep's entry into the compact pickup market, sharing its platform with the highly successful XJ Cherokee.

Comanche Design Philosophy:

Focused on utility, off-road capability, and the familiar Jeep driving experience, setting it apart from more car-like competitors.

Production Years:

1986-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

Ownership Changes:

Produced under AMC ownership initially, then Chrysler after the 1987 acquisition.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design And Engineering Awards:

While specific awards for the 1988 Comanche are not readily documented, the XJ platform it shared was praised for its pioneering unibody SUV design and off-road capability.