Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Positioning:
Renowned for its off-road capability, ruggedness, and relatively compact size compared to larger SUVs of the era.
Competitors:
Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Ford Bronco II, Toyota 4Runner.
Design:
Unibody construction (a significant innovation for SUVs at the time), contributing to lighter weight and better on-road manners.
Powertrain:
Offered with robust inline-six and four-cylinder engines, paired with capable 4WD systems.
Durability:
The XJ is celebrated for its robust build quality and long-term durability, making it a favorite for off-roading and overland travel.
Engine:
Comprehensive engine repair, overhaul, diagnostics, and component replacement for all 1988 XJ variants.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for automatic and manual transmission service, repair, and adjustment.
Drivetrain:
In-depth coverage of 2WD and 4WD systems, including transfer cases, differentials, axles, and driveshafts.
Suspension:
Complete information on front and rear suspension components, including springs, shock absorbers, control arms, and steering linkage.
Brakes:
Service and repair procedures for front disc and rear drum brakes, parking brake system, and hydraulic lines.
Electrical:
Extensive electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, component testing, and repair for lighting, ignition, charging, and accessories.
Bodywork:
Information on body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass, and sealing components.
HVAC:
Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.
Fuel System:
Coverage of fuel injection systems, fuel pumps, lines, and evaporative emissions control.
Cooling System:
Detailed information on radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan service.
Exhaust System:
Repair and replacement of exhaust manifolds, pipes, catalytic converter, and muffler.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification, and systematic troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Rebuilding:
Comprehensive guides for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Refurbishing:
Guidance on restoring worn or damaged parts and systems.
Restoration:
Information relevant to bringing a classic vehicle back to original or improved condition.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving malfunctions across all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Expert-level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostic techniques.
File Type:
Likely PDF, offering searchability and ease of access.
Quality:
Assumed high-quality digital reproduction for clear diagrams and text.
Binding:
Not applicable for digital format; if printed, likely spiral-bound for lay-flat use.
Paper:
Not applicable for digital format.
Engine Code:
4.0L Inline-6 OHV (High Output)
Displacement:
242 cubic inches (3960 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 173 hp @ 4500 RPM (may vary slightly by source/tune)
Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (may vary slightly by source/tune)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.562 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm)
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Engine Code:
2.5L Inline-4 OHV (AMC 150 'Tech")
Displacement:
150 cubic inches (2466 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 121 hp @ 4800 RPM
Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM
Fuel System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Length:
Approx. 167.2 inches (4247 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Varies by trim and suspension, typically around 7-8 inches (178-203 mm).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100-3400 lbs (1406-1542 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain.
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
Likely 3-star due to higher center of gravity, typical for SUVs of the era.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brakes. ABS not standard on 1988 models.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts.
Airbags:
Driver airbag was optional or not available on all 1988 models.
Audio System:
AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Speaker count varies by trim.
Gauges:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some trims), fuel, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and voltage.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard on 1988 models, and often not an option.
Connectivity Features:
None beyond basic radio/cassette functionality.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid:
Automatic: Check every oil change, replace/flush around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Manual: Check as needed, replacement at higher mileages.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Typically 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature suitability). Capacity: ~5 quarts with filter for 4.0L.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF+3 or equivalent (Chrysler spec). Capacity: ~5.5 quarts for AW4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF or manufacturer-specific power steering fluid.
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on early 4.0L models), cracked cylinder heads (less common on '88), rust (particularly wheel wells, rockers, and frame rails), cooling system issues (water pump, radiator), minor electrical gremlins.
Jeep Legacy:
Built upon Jeep's reputation for robust off-road vehicles, originating from military roots.
Xj Introduction:
The XJ platform was introduced for the 1984 model year, revolutionizing the SUV segment with its unibody design.
1988 Updates:
While specific major updates for '88 are minor, this year falls within the core of the XJ's highly regarded early production run. The 4.0L inline-six was becoming increasingly dominant.
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
