🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jeep

Model:

Cherokee (XJ)

Year:

1987

Market:

North America

Chassis Code:

XJ

👋 Introduction

Original Market Positioning:

Compact SUV, positioned as a capable and versatile off-road vehicle with a utilitarian focus, appealing to adventurers and families seeking durable utility.

Key Competitors 1987:

Vehicle Key Attributes:

Manual Benefit To Owner:

Enables owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving money and ensuring quality, while understanding their vehicle's intricate systems.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Options Covered:

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Drivetrain:

Chassis:

Electrical:

Body:

Maintenance Procedures:

Repair Procedures:

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Procedures:

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Format:

PDF

Digital Resolution:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF allows for quick access to specific topics and procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

AMC 242

Displacement Ci:

242

Displacement Liters:

4.0

Configuration:

Inline-6 (I6)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Cast Iron

Bore X Stroke In:

3.875 x 3.414

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower Net Approx:

173 hp @ 4500 rpm

Torque Net Approx:

220 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor with electronic ignition

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Oil Viscosity 40L:

10W-30

Oil Capacity Quarts 40L:

5.0 (with filter)

Engine Code:

AMC 150

Displacement Ci:

150

Displacement Liters:

2.5

Configuration:

Inline-4 (I4)

Horsepower Net Approx:

125 hp @ 4800 rpm

Torque Net Approx:

170 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Recommended Oil Viscosity 25L:

10W-30

Oil Capacity Quarts 25L:

5.0 (with filter)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

AW-4 Automatic

Gear Count:

4-speed Automatic

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:

8.0 (approximate, dry fill)

Transmission Type:

TF-999 Automatic

Gear Count:

3-speed Automatic

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:

6.0 (approximate, dry fill)

Manual Transmission 1:

AX-5 (for 2.5L I4 and some 4.0L I6)

Manual Transmission 2:

AX-4 (less common, mostly earlier models but may appear on some 1987)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:

2.5 (approximate)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase In:

101.4

Length In:

169.5

Width In:

69.9

Height In:

63.1

Ground Clearance In:

8.7 (approximate)

Approach Angle Degrees:

Approx. 45

Departure Angle Degrees:

Approx. 30

Breakover Angle Degrees:

Approx. 22

Curb Weight Lbs Approx:

3100-3400 (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs Approx:

4500-4800

Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind Rear Seat:

33.2

Cargo Volume Cu Ft Max Folding Rear Seat:

71.2

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating 1987:

Not rated (NHTSA testing methodology varied significantly)

Active Safety Features Standard:

Passive Safety Features Standard:

Optional Safety Features:

None widely available or documented for this year

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System 1987:

Basic AM/FM Radio, optional Cassette Player or CD Player (rare for base models)

Driver Assistance Features 1987:

None standard (e.g., no ABS, traction control, cruise control was optional)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

3,000-5,000 (depending on driving conditions and oil type)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:

30,000-60,000 (varies by usage and fluid type)

Coolant Flush Interval Miles:

30,000-50,000

Spark Plug Replacement Miles:

30,000-60,000 (depending on plug type)

Coolant Type:

Conventional Green Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+3 (or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Xj Issues 1987:

📚 Vehicle History

Jeep Brand Legacy:

Founded in 1941 with the Willys MB, Jeep has a long and storied history of producing rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, particularly known for its military heritage and off-road prowess.

Xj Generation Introduction:

The XJ Cherokee was introduced for the 1984 model year, revolutionizing the SUV market by being the first mass-produced compact SUV with unibody construction, offering a lighter, more fuel-efficient, and car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Xj 1987 Updates:

The 1987 model year saw significant updates, most notably the introduction of the legendary 4.0L inline-six engine, which quickly became the preferred powerplant due to its torque and smoothness. Minor styling tweaks and interior revisions may have also occurred.

Xj Production Years:

1984-2001

Xj Manufacturing Location:

Toledo, Ohio, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Editors Choice:

Awarded 'Four Wheeler of the Year' by Four Wheeler magazine in 1984, which set the standard for the compact SUV class and influenced many subsequent models.

Overall Automotive Reputation:

The XJ Cherokee is widely regarded as an automotive icon for its durability, off-road capability, and longevity, with a strong enthusiast following.