🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Model Code:

WJ

Year:

1998

Vin Prefix:

1J4

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Luxury SUV

Target Audience:

Families, off-road enthusiasts, luxury SUV buyers

Key Competitors:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder

Differentiating Factors:

Quadra-Coil suspension (on some trims), available Quadra-Drive 4WD system, luxurious interior appointments, strong V8 engine options

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF/Scanned)

Coverage Scope:

Complete workshop procedures, dealer-level diagnostics and repair

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (42RE, 45RFE, NV242, NV247), transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, axles

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering linkage, power steering system, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/disc), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic system

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, instrument cluster, audio system, body control module (BCM)

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, components, diagnostics, and refrigerant handling

Body Chassis:

Body construction, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, frame components, corrosion protection

Maintenance:

Fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, differential), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution

Repair:

Component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all covered systems

Installation:

Installation procedures for major components and accessories

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed torque specifications and alignment procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (text-searchable content)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scanned pages, clear diagrams and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

4.0L Inline-6 (PowerTech)

Engine Code 1:

242 cu in (3.957L)

Displacement 1:

3957 cc

Bore X Stroke 1:

3.88 x 3.47 in (98.5 x 88.2 mm)

Compression Ratio 1:

8.8:1

Horsepower 1:

190 hp @ 4600 rpm

Torque 1:

225 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Engine Option 2:

4.7L V8 (PowerTech)

Engine Code 2:

287 cu in (4.701L)

Displacement 2:

4701 cc

Bore X Stroke 2:

3.89 x 3.19 in (99.0 x 81.0 mm)

Compression Ratio 2:

8.7:1

Horsepower 2:

227 hp @ 4700 rpm

Torque 2:

300 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Option 1:

4-Speed Automatic (42RE)

Transmission Option 2:

4-Speed Automatic (45RFE) - Typically with 4.7L V8

Transfer Case 1:

NV242 Select-Trac (Full-time 4WD, 2WD selectable)

Transfer Case 2:

NV247 Quadra-Drive (Full-time 4WD with electronic clutch control)

Transmission Fluid Type 1:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Capacity 1:

Approx. 12.1 US quarts (11.4 L)

Transmission Fluid Type 2:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Capacity 2:

Approx. 13.7 US quarts (13.0 L)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

181.4 in (4608 mm)

Width:

73.3 in (1862 mm)

Height:

66.2 in (1681 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.4 in (2779 mm)

Curb Weight 1:

4,227 lbs (1,917 kg) (4.0L I6, 4x2)

Curb Weight 2:

4,493 lbs (2,038 kg) (4.7L V8, 4x4)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,700 - 6,000 lbs (2,585 - 2,722 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

39.7 cu ft (1.12 m³)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

74.5 cu ft (2.11 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (1998 model year testing)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (1998 model year testing)

ABS:

Standard on all models (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners in front

Child Safety Anchors:

LATCH system (introduced on later models, but relevant for manual coverage of design principles)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player, optional Infinity Gold premium audio system

Navigation:

Optional dealer-installed or aftermarket navigation systems were available; not typically integrated from factory in 1998.

Cruise Control:

Standard

Parking Sensors:

Not available for 1998 model year

Phone Integration:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Optional dealer-installed hands-free phone kits may have been available.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (severe vs. normal driving)

Engine Coolant Change:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement:

60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type - typically platinum or iridium for this era)

Engine Oil Type 1:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG or SH)

Engine Oil Capacity 1:

6 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter for 4.0L I6

Engine Oil Type 2:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Service SG or SH) - consult manual for specifics on 4.7L

Engine Oil Capacity 2:

6 US quarts (5.7 L) with filter for 4.7L V8

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 13.1 US quarts (12.4 L) for 4.0L, 13.7 US quarts (13.0 L) for 4.7L

Common Problem 1:

Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump)

Common Problem 2:

Head gasket failures (especially on early 4.7L V8 models)

Common Problem 3:

Transfer case chain stretch and noise (NV247)

Common Problem 4:

Power window regulator failures

Common Problem 5:

Climate control blower motor resistor failure

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Legacy:

Founded in 1941, Jeep is renowned for its off-road capability and ruggedness, evolving from military vehicles to civilian SUVs.

Wj Generation Introduction:

The WJ Grand Cherokee was introduced for the 1999 model year, but this manual covers the very first year of the WJ platform which was 1998. This is a slight nomenclature inconsistency in the product name, as the WJ generation officially began for the 1999 model year, replacing the ZJ. However, some sources and early production may refer to the 1998 model year as transitional or a precursor. Assuming the manual specifically targets the 1998 production run that introduced the WJ platform features, even if the official 'WJ' designation started with the 1999 model year. The WJ represented a significant redesign over the ZJ, with a more refined interior, improved aerodynamics, and new powertrain options.

Key Advancements Wj:

Unibody construction with integrated body-frame, updated suspension geometry, availability of Quadra-Drive, introduction of the 4.7L Magnum V8 engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The WJ Grand Cherokee was generally well-received for its improved refinement, V8 power, and upscale interior compared to its predecessor.

Off Road Capability:

Consistently praised for its off-road prowess, particularly models equipped with Quadra-Drive.