🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

ZG (WJ Platform - Predecessor to WJ)

Platform:

ZJ (Later models designated as ZG in some markets, though technically ZJ generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZG/ZJ) was positioned as a premium, mid-size SUV, offering a blend of luxury, off-road capability, and utility. It competed with vehicles like the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, and Nissan Pathfinder.

Competitive Analysis:

The ZJ Grand Cherokee distinguished itself with its more refined interior, available V8 engine, and legendary Jeep "Trail Rated" capability, though often overshadowed in pure luxury by some competitors. Its solid front axle (on early models) provided superior off-road articulation.

Key Features:

Comfortable ride, significant towing capacity, robust four-wheel-drive systems (Selec-Trac, Quadra-Trac), luxurious interior appointments for its era, and substantial off-road prowess.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body and Frame, Body Electronics, Emissions Control, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Page Count:

Approximately 1200-1500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Ignition system, Cooling system, Exhaust system, Lubrication system, Intake system, Automatic transmission (42RE, 44RE, 46RE), Transfer case (NV242, NV249), Front axle (Dana 30), Rear axle (Dana 35, Dana 44), Suspension (front solid axle, rear solid axle), Steering system, Power steering, Brake system (ABS, non-ABS), Parking brake, Climate control (HVAC), Exterior lighting, Interior lighting, Power windows, Power locks, Seats, Sunroof, Radio, Security system, Airbags, Body panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Windshield wipers, Chassis electrical, Wiring harnesses

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), Engine repair and overhaul, Transmission service and repair, Drivetrain component replacement, Suspension and steering alignment and repair, Brake system diagnostics and repair, Electrical system troubleshooting, HVAC system repair, Bodywork and collision repair, Diagnostic procedures, Component testing, Wiring diagram interpretation, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) lookup and resolution

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical system diagnostics, and detailed body repair procedures. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manual pages, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.0L Inline 6-Cylinder (High Output OHV)

Secondary Engine:

5.2L V8 Magnum (318 ci)

Engine Codes:

4.0L: ERH, ERT; 5.2L: EWH, EWK

Horsepower 4 0L:

189 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque 4 0L:

228 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Horsepower 5 2L:

220 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque 5 2L:

295 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Block Material:

Cast Iron (both engines)

Head Material:

Cast Iron (4.0L), Aluminum (5.2L)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs (4.0L), Distributor ignition with single ignition coil (5.2L)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

42RE 4-Speed Automatic (for 4.0L)

Optional Transmission:

44RE 4-Speed Automatic (for 5.2L), 46RE 4-Speed Automatic (for 5.9L - rare for '97, typically '98+)

Transfer Case Options:

NV242 Selec-Trac (part-time 4WD with full-time option), NV249 Quadra-Trac (full-time 4WD with low range)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (recommended, though ATF+3 was original spec)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.7 U.S. quarts (9.2 liters) for 42RE/44RE (dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

178.1 inches (4524 mm)

Exterior Width:

71.2 inches (1808 mm)

Exterior Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2761 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) depending on suspension and tire size

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,100 - 4,500 lbs (1859 - 2041 kg) depending on engine and trim

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,500 lbs (2948 kg) with optional towing package and 5.2L V8

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 stars (1997)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 stars (1997)

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, Three-point seat belts with pretensioners, Side-impact door beams

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player, optional premium sound system, power antenna.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional steering wheel audio controls.

Connectivity Features:

No advanced Bluetooth or smartphone integration as expected for the era.

Lighting Technology:

Halogen headlights, standard interior lighting.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type used; synthetic recommended for longer intervals).

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years. Inspect condition regularly.

Service Intervals Coolant:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for conventional coolant; longer for HOAT or OAT (consult manual for specific type).

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 (recommended for both engines, check specific ambient temperature ranges).

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Chrysler Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) - consult manual for specific type (e.g., Mopar 10 Year/100,000 Mile).

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (check manual for specific recommendation)

Known Issues 4 0L:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 4.0L), distributorless ignition system (DIS) coil pack failures, oil filter adapter leaks, rear main seal leaks.

Known Issues 5 2L:

Oil filter adapter housing leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, occasional oil sludge buildup if maintenance is neglected.

Known Issues General:

Transmission cooler line leaks, radiator leaks, electronic control module (ECM) failures, power window motor failures, rust on body panels (especially wheel arches and rocker panels), worn steering box, differential seal leaks.

Spark Plug Type 4 0L:

Champion Copper Plus (e.g., RC12ECC) or equivalent, typically 0.035 inch gap.

Spark Plug Type 5 2L:

Champion Platinum Power (e.g., 7057) or equivalent, typically 0.035 inch gap.

Oil Capacity 4 0L:

6 U.S. quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.

Oil Capacity 5 2L:

7 U.S. quarts (6.6 liters) with filter.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jeep, a brand synonymous with off-road capability and ruggedness, has a history dating back to WWII with the iconic Willys Jeep. This heritage informs the Grand Cherokee's design and engineering.

Model Evolution:

The ZJ generation of the Grand Cherokee was introduced for the 1993 model year, replacing the Cherokee (XJ) as Jeep's flagship SUV. The 1997 model represents a mid-cycle update for the ZJ platform, with minor styling tweaks and powertrain refinements.

Production Years Zj:

1993-1998

Manufacturing Location:

Detroit, Michigan, USA (Jefferson North Assembly Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Often praised for its combination of luxury and off-road capability, making it a popular choice in the SUV market of its time. It contributed to Jeep's strong sales performance in the 1990s.

Ratings:

Various automotive publications of the era lauded its V8 engine option and refined interior compared to its predecessor and some competitors.