Introduction
|
Market Position
|
Vehicle Segment:
|
Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle
|
Target Audience:
|
DIY enthusiasts, mechanics, Jeep owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge
|
Competitive Analysis
|
Competitors 1988:
|
Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner
|
Unique Selling Proposition:
|
Renowned off-road capability, durable Uniframe construction, strong inline-six engine option
|
Key Features
|
Design Philosophy:
|
Rugged utility, compact size, excellent off-road performance for its class
|
Powertrain Options:
|
Proven AMC engines known for reliability and torque
|
Manual Coverage
|
Systems Covered
|
Powertrain:
|
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, emission controls
|
Transmission Drivetrain:
|
Manual transmissions, automatic transmissions, transfer cases, drive axles, drivelines
|
Suspension Steering:
|
Front suspension (leaf springs, SOA option covered), rear suspension (leaf springs), steering system (power steering components)
|
Brakes:
|
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
|
Electrical:
|
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, wiring diagrams
|
Body Chassis:
|
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, frame structure
|
Procedures Included
|
Maintenance:
|
Routine service checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
|
Troubleshooting:
|
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification, symptom-based diagnosis
|
Repair Rebuild:
|
Component removal and installation, major assembly overhauls, specific repair procedures for all systems
|
Diagnostics:
|
Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system testing, transmission fault finding
|
Specifications:
|
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, timing settings
|
Technical Depth
|
Depth:
|
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
|
Detail Level:
|
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams for nearly all repair and maintenance tasks.
|
Maintenance
|
Service Intervals
|
Oil Change Interval:
|
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
|
Transmission Fluid Change:
|
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Consult manual for manual transmission intervals.
|
Coolant Change Interval:
|
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for conventional coolant; longer intervals for extended life coolants if used.
|
Fluid Specifications
|
Engine Oil Type:
|
SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L), SAE 10W-40 or 10W-30 for 2.5L. Consult specific manual for exact API service classification.
|
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
|
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Chrysler specifications, often compatible with Dexron II/III)
|
Transfer Case Fluid:
|
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (for AW4-based transfer cases), NP231 uses ATF+4 or Dexron III
|
Power Steering Fluid:
|
ATF+3 or equivalent power steering fluid
|
Known Issues
|
Common Issues 1:
|
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses), head gasket failures on early 4.0L engines, Rusty unibody structure, worn leaf spring bushings.
|
Common Issues 2:
|
Interior electrical gremlins (especially aged wiring), AW4 transmission solenoid failures, worn U-joints.
|
Maintenance Schedule Detail
|
Spark Plug Replacement:
|
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
|
Air Filter Replacement:
|
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
|
Brake Fluid Flush:
|
Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
|