🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Jeep Model: Cherokee Model Code: XJ Year: 1990 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact SUV Target Audience Manual: Jeep owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts. Competitive Analysis Competitors Vehicle 1990: Ford Bronco II, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota 4Runner Key Features Vehicle Unibody Construction: Pioneering unibody construction for an SUV, offering lighter weight and improved ride compared to body-on-frame rivals. Off Road Capability: Renowned off-road prowess due to Command-Trac (2WD/4WD) or Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD) transfer cases and robust drivetrain options. Key Features Manual Completeness: Comprehensive, factory-level information essential for accurate diagnosis and repair. Value Proposition: Enables cost-effective maintenance and repairs, extending the lifespan and preserving the value of the vehicle. 📋 Manual Details Identification Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language: English Format: Digital (likely PDF, as implied by 'Repair Manual Software') 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Engine Mechanical: Comprehensive coverage including disassembly, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting for all engine variants. Engine Electrical: Detailed diagrams and troubleshooting for ignition, fuel injection, starting, charging, and emissions control systems. Transmission Manual: Service and repair procedures for manual transmissions (e.g., AX-5, BA-10/5). Transmission Automatic: Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions (e.g., AW-4). Drivetrain 4X4: Detailed information on transfer case (e.g., NP231), front and rear axle assemblies, and hub operation. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, including leaf springs, shock absorbers, control arms, and steering linkage. Steering: Power steering system components, hydraulic pump, steering box/rack, and linkage. Brakes: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, and ABS (if equipped). Body And Frame: Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, roof, and unibody structural components. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, gauges, interior controls, horn, wipers, and HVAC electrical components. Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning: HVAC system components, refrigerant charging, blower motor, heater core, and A/C compressor. Procedures Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection and replacement. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, often with flowcharts. Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems. Diagnostics: Detailed diagnostic steps, including use of diagnostic tools and interpretation of sensor data (OBD-I for this era). Rebuilds: Comprehensive procedures for rebuilding engines, transmissions, transfer cases, and axles. Technical Depth Depth Level: In-depth, professional level suitable for dealership technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Properties File Format: PDF (typically, for digital versions) Searchability: Likely fully text-searchable for quick access to specific topics. Printability: Printable pages, allowing for physical reference. Physical Properties Page Count Estimated: 1000-2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era). Print Quality: High-resolution scans/digital reproductions ensuring clarity of diagrams and text. Binding Type: N/A (for digital format) Paper Type: N/A (for digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine 1 Engine Code: 4.0L I-6 (High Output) Engine Displacement: 3957 cc (242 ci) Engine Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV) Bore X Stroke: 3.875 in x 3.563 in (98.4 mm x 90.5 mm) Compression Ratio: 8.8:1 Horsepower Net: 177 hp @ 4750 rpm (approx.) Torque Net: 220 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (approx.) Fuel System: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs (later models) or Distributor with Ignition Coil. Cooling System Capacity: 10.5 US quarts (9.9 L) Oil Capacity W Filter: 5 US quarts (4.7 L) Recommended Oil Viscosity: API SG, SAE 10W-30 Optional Engine Engine Code: 2.5L I-4 Engine Displacement: 2469 cc (151 ci) Engine Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV) Horsepower Net: 125 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.) Torque Net: 147 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Fuel System: Throttle Body Injection (TBI) or Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Manual Transmission Model: AX-5 (2WD and 4WD versions) Gear Ratios: Refer to manual for specific ratios, but typically 5 forward gears + reverse. Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch Optional Transmission Type: Automatic Transmission Model: AW-4 (4-speed electronically controlled) Torque Converter Stall Speed: Refer to manual for specifications. Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+3 (or equivalent, consult manual for exact specification) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 8 US quarts (7.6 L) for AW-4 (dry fill) Transfer Case Standard 4X4 System: Command-Trac NV231 (Part-time, 2WD High, 4WD High, 4WD Low, Neutral) Optional 4X4 System Optional 4X4 System: Selec-Trac NV242 (Full-time, 2WD, 4WD High, 4WD Low, Neutral) Transfer Case Fluid Fluid Type: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent, consult manual) Fluid Capacity: Approx. 1.75 US quarts (1.66 L) for NV231/NV242 📐 Dimensions Exterior Lxwxh Dimensions: Approx. 167.5 in (L) x 69.9 in (W) x 64.4 in (H) (1990 Model) Wheelbase Wheelbase: 103.4 inches (2626 mm) Track Width Front Track: 57.5 inches (1460 mm) Rear Track: 57.0 inches (1450 mm) Ground Clearance Ground Clearance: Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) for 4x4 models Weights Curb Weight Min...
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) or 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) depending on engine and axle ratio (check manual for specifics).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating 1990:
Likely 3-star (representative for vehicles of this era, specific data for 1990 XJ may vary).
Active Features
Brake System:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 1990 models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard for 1990.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, shoulder belts for front occupants.
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks available.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Dashboard Controls:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel, temperature, oil pressure, and voltmeter. Manual climate controls.
Driver Assistance
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for rear wheels.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
OBD Standard:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation), requiring specialized diagnostic tools and procedures.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, or every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for definitive recommendation).
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not applicable for 1990 models.
Service Intervals Fluids
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Power Steering Fluid Check:
Check every oil change. Flush and replace as needed, typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Service Intervals Ignition
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum/iridium (if applicable).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (or equivalent, consult manual)
Known Issues Engine
4.0L Common Issues:
Cracked cylinder heads (though less common on 1990 models compared to later years), oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan, lifter tick.
2.5L Common Issues:
Head gasket failures, oil consumption, valve seat issues.
Known Issues Drivetrain
Transfer Case Chain Slap:
NV231 transfer case chain can stretch and cause noise.
Axle Seal Leaks:
Rear axle pinion seal and axle shaft seal leaks are common.
Known Issues Suspension
Leaf Spring Sag:
Rear leaf springs can sag over time, reducing ride height.
Known Issues Electrical
Wiring Harness Issues:
Corrosion and chafing in wiring harnesses, particularly in engine bay and under the vehicle.
Alternator Failure:
Alternators can fail prematurely.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, originating from military applications (Willys MB).
Model Evolution
Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced in 1984, revolutionizing the SUV market with its compact size and unibody construction.
Xj Updates 1990:
1990 saw the introduction of the more powerful 4.0L High Output inline-six engine as a primary option and the driver-side airbag as standard equipment.
Production
Production Period Xj:
1984-2001 (North America), later in other markets.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Toledo, Ohio, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year 1984:
While not for 1990, the XJ was Motor Trend's SUV of the Year upon its introduction in 1984, highlighting its innovative design and capability.
Ratings
Off Road Magazine Ratings:
Consistently praised by off-road publications for its capability and compact size.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets U.S. Federal EPA emissions standards for 1990 model year.
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