Segment:
Compact Pickup Truck
Target Audience:
Jeep Comanche owners, DIY mechanics, restoration enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, Nissan Hardbody, Toyota Pickup
Unique Selling Points:
Combined Jeep's robust off-road heritage with truck utility, available Command-Trac 4x4 system, unibody construction shared with XJ Cherokee
Manual Utility:
Provides essential information for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting to keep the Comanche in optimal condition.
Manual Value:
Empowers owners to perform their own repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring quality workmanship.
Covered Years:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Trim Levels Covered:
Pioneer, Chief, Laredo, XJ Sport, Eliminator, Sport, Base
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Manual Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Driveline, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Audio System, Power Accessories
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Chassis Frame, Bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Changes, Tune-Ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Common Faults & Solutions
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) Code Retrieval & Interpretation, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing
Component Replacement:
Engine, Transmission, Transfer Case, Axles, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Alternator, Starter, Radiator, A/C Compressor, Body Panels, Doors
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced (includes wiring diagrams, sensor specifications, troubleshooting guides)
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step procedures with torque specifications and diagrams
Engine Options Early:
2.5L AMC I4 (150 ci), 2.8L GM V6 (173 ci)
Engine Options Later:
4.0L AMC I6 (242 ci), 4.2L AMC I6 (258 ci)
4.0L I6 Horsepower:
Approx. 173-180 hp
4.0L I6 Torque:
Approx. 220-225 lb-ft
2.5L I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 112-125 hp
2.5L I4 Torque:
Approx. 135-150 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 4.0L and 4.2L, Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or MPI for 2.5L and 2.8L (depending on year)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
Engine Control Unit:
ECU/PCM (specifics vary by year and engine)
Standard Transmission Early:
3-speed Automatic (e.g., Chrysler A904/A999), 4-speed Manual
Standard Transmission Later:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., AW4), 5-speed Manual (e.g., AX-15)
Optional Transmission Early:
4-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Later:
4.0L often paired with AW4 automatic and NP242 transfer case
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (2WD/4WD Part-Time - NP231), Command-Trac (2WD/4WD Full-Time - NP242)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual for exact spec based on transmission type)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (viscosity varies by temperature and transmission type)
Wheelbase Shortbed:
113.0 inches
Wheelbase Longbed:
125.0 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,800 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (varies by configuration)
NHTSA Ratings:
No formal standardized ratings for this era, but generally considered robust for its class.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (Rear disc optional on some later models)
Seat Belts:
Lap and shoulder belts (front), Lap belts (rear)
Airbags:
Not standard on early models, driver airbag introduced in later years (check specific model year).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player standard, optional CD player on later models.
Speakers:
Typically 4-speaker system (dash and door).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became optional/standard on rear wheels in later model years.
Connectivity Features:
Basic functionality for its era; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity without aftermarket modifications.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type).
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (check manual for specific transmission type and fluid).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Tune Up Intervals:
Spark plugs and filters typically at 30,000-60,000 miles (engine dependent).
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SJ or higher; 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for specific engine).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mopar OAT or HOAT compatible)
Common Wear Items:
Leaf spring bushings, U-joints, brake components, radiator, water pump, fuel pump.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to intermittent electrical issues due to age; wiring harness integrity is crucial.
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear quarter panels, floor pans, frame rails (especially in rust-belt regions).
4.0L I6 Potential Issues:
Head gasket issues can occur at higher mileage; cracked cylinder heads were a known, albeit less common, issue on early 4.0Ls.
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep, a brand synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness since WWII.
Comanche Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 as a compact pickup truck, based on the Jeep Cherokee (XJ) platform.
Mj Platform Distinction:
Unique MJ (Comanche) unibody construction, distinct from traditional body-on-frame trucks.
Major Updates:
Engine upgrades (introduction of 4.0L I6), interior refinements, minor styling tweaks throughout its production run.
Production Years:
1986-1992 (MJ platform), extended production to 1996 with some carryover parts/design elements.
Production Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Industry Accolades:
Often cited for its robust powertrain (especially the 4.0L I6) and off-road prowess for a compact pickup. Praised for its utility and Jeep heritage.
Off Road Capability Rating:
Highly regarded by off-road enthusiasts for its capability, especially with 4x4 and appropriate tires.
Manual Certification:
This manual is compiled from official factory service information, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer specifications.
