🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Grand Cherokee

Year:

1998

Platform Code:

ZJ

Body Style:

SUV

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury SUV, often competing with models like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Blazer.

Appeal:

Off-road capability, comfortable ride, spacious interior, towing capacity.

Competitors 1998:

Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Blazer/TrailBlazer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Dodge Durango.

Key Features Vehicle:

Four-wheel drive (full-time and part-time options), available V8 engine, comfortable ride quality, robust towing capability, spacious interior for its class.

Key Features Manual:

Comprehensive coverage for all major mechanical and electrical systems, detailed diagnostic procedures, extensive illustrations and diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Page Count:

Est. 1500-2500+ pages (typical for full service manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All engine options, including diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions.

Transmission:

Automatic and Manual transmissions, including overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, clutch service, driveline components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake, hydraulic systems, component replacement, bleeding procedures.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension (solid axle front, multi-link rear), steering system, wheel alignment, component replacement, shock absorbers, springs.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, power windows, locks, mirrors, instrumentation, charging system, starting system.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service, component replacement.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, body repair procedures.

Chassis:

Frame, unibody construction, driveline, transfer case, axles, driveshafts.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation, brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, engine performance issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for rebuilding engines, transmissions, transfer cases, and other major components.

Installation:

Instructions for installing replacement parts and accessories.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF, enabling searchability and digital access.

Print Quality:

Variable (digital formats can be printed at high resolution).

Searchability:

High (assuming OCR'd PDF).

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

4.0L (242 ci) "Power Tech" Inline 6-cylinder (I6)

Engine 1 Code:

ERH

Engine 1 Horsepower:

190 hp @ 4,600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

225 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Engine 2:

5.2L (318 ci) "Magnum" V8

Engine 2 Code:

ECL

Engine 2 Horsepower:

220 hp @ 4,800 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm

Engine 3:

5.9L (360 ci) "Magnum" V8 (Optional in some markets/later models, may be included in manual)

Engine 3 Code:

EGA

Engine 3 Horsepower:

235 hp @ 4,600 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

330 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for I6, 89 octane for V8s)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

42RE 4-speed automatic (with 4.0L I6)

Transmission Optional 1:

44RE 4-speed automatic (with 5.2L V8)

Transmission Optional 2:

46RE 4-speed automatic (with 5.9L V8)

Transmission Features:

Selectable 4WD (Command-Trac) or Full-Time 4WD (Selec-Trac) options. Low-range gear available in transfer case.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Capacity 42Re 44Re:

Approx. 10.5 US quarts (9.9 liters) (pan and filter)

Transmission Fluid Capacity 46Re:

Approx. 11.5 US quarts (10.9 liters) (pan and filter)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2,761 mm)

Length:

179.1 inches (4,549 mm)

Width:

70.5 inches (1,791 mm)

Height:

66.0 inches (1,676 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3,900 lbs (1,769 kg) (4.0L I6, RWD)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) (5.9L V8, 4WD)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,600-5,800 lbs (2,540-2,630 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity Max:

Up to 6,500 lbs (2,948 kg) with appropriate towing package and engine

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front Impact:

4 Stars (1998 Model Year)

NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:

4 Stars (1998 Model Year)

ABS:

Standard (likely 4-wheel ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with driver's side pretensioner.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD player. Optional premium sound systems available. Uconnect or similar advanced infotainment systems were not available.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS. No electronic stability control, traction control, or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were offered.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone integration. Aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 3-6 months, whichever comes first), depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendation based on oil type.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles

Transmission Fluid Service Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (dependent on use, consult manual for severe service)

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service SN, SM, SL, SJ or higher; SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions. SAE 10W-30 may be used in warmer climates.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (often orange or red color, but verify specification). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 5.2L:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity 5.9L:

5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11-13 US quarts (10.4-12.3 liters) (Varies slightly by engine)

Common Issues Zj General:

Cracked cylinder heads (especially early 5.2L V8), sagging headliner, interior plastic quality concerns, transfer case issues (e.g., NP242 'slipping' in 2WD), radiator leaks, water pump failures, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failures, rust on body and frame components, rear main seal leaks.

Common Issues Zj Electrical:

Window regulators failing, power lock actuators, intermittent dashboard warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Jeep is an American brand with a long history of producing rugged, off-road capable vehicles, originally for military use.

Zj Generation Period:

1993-1998

Zj Key Updates 1998:

While 1998 was the final year of the ZJ generation, there were minor updates throughout its run, including engine revisions and feature packaging. The 1998 model year generally represented the peak of refinement for this generation.

Production Location:

Detroit, Michigan, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award History:

The Grand Cherokee ZJ has been generally well-regarded for its off-road prowess and comfortable ride for its time. While specific awards for the 1998 model are not widely publicized, the ZJ generation as a whole received praise in automotive reviews for its blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, earning it a strong following.