🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Jeep Model: Cherokee Model Code: XJ Year: 1997 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact SUV, highly regarded for off-road capability and durability. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1997: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. Key Features Chassis Design: Unibody construction, a pioneering feature in its class, offering a better ride and handling than body-on-frame competitors. 4X4 Capability: Renowned Selec-Trac and Command-Trac 4WD systems, coupled with excellent ground clearance and approach/departure angles. Durability: Known for its robust construction and reliability, particularly the powertrain. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Summary: Comprehensive factory service repair manual covering all mechanical and electrical systems of the 1997 Jeep Cherokee XJ. Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Print (likely softcover or comb-bound) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair for all engine components, including cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, and emissions. Engine Performance: Includes engine diagnostics, performance tuning, and troubleshooting for power delivery issues. Transmission Manual: Complete repair, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for the manual transmission. Transmission Automatic: Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and adjustment procedures for the automatic transmission. Drivetrain: Coverage of transfer case operation, front and rear axle assemblies, differentials, CV joints, and driveshafts. Suspension: Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, repair, and replacement, including springs, shocks, bushings, and control arms. Steering: Detailed information on power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement (pump, rack, hoses). Brakes: Full coverage of brake system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting, including hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), rotors, pads, and calipers. Electrical System: Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis, and repair for the entire electrical system. HVAC: Service and repair procedures for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling. Body And Frame: Procedures for body panel removal/installation, interior trim, glass replacement, and frame inspection. Fuel System: Detailed coverage of fuel pump, injectors, lines, and fuel tank service and diagnosis. Exhaust System: Repair and replacement of exhaust components, including catalytic converter and muffler. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan diagnosis and repair. Emission Control: Information on emission control devices, diagnosis, and repair for compliance. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement. Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems across all vehicle systems. Component Overhaul: Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and axles. Electrical Diagnostics: Pinpoint electrical faults using wiring diagrams, multimeter testing, and component resistance/voltage checks. Brake System Repair: Pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line bleeding, master cylinder replacement. Suspension Alignment: Procedures for checking and adjusting wheel alignment angles. HVAC Service: Refrigerant recharging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser), leak detection. Body Panel Replacement: Instructions for removing and installing doors, fenders, hoods, and bumpers. Technical Depth Depth Level: Expert Level - Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers. Diagnostic Charts: Inclusion of detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-to-cause tables. Torque Specifications: Comprehensive list of all critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and driveline components. Special Tools: Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs. Wiring Diagrams: High-quality, detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Likely digital format (PDF) for modern sales, but the original was printed. Print Quality Print Quality: Original factory print quality; digital versions aim to replicate clarity of text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding Type: Original: Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched; digital: N/A Paper Type Paper Type: Original: High-quality, durable paper; digital: N/A Digital Features Searchability: If PDF, includes searchable text for quick information retrieval. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: 4.0L OHV V6 (60-degree) Engine Displacement 1: 3956 cc (241.4 cu in) Engine Bore X Stroke 1: 91.1 mm x 77.7 mm (3.59 in x 3.06 in) Engine Compression Ratio 1: 8.8:1 Engine Horsepower 1: 190 hp @ 4400 rpm Engine Torque 1: 225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Engine Block Material 1: Cast Iron Engine Cylinder Head Material 1: Cast Iron Engine Fuel Delivery 1: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Ignition System 1: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) Engine Variants Optional Engine Available: No, 4.0L OHV V6 was standard for this year. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW4) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (AX-15) Features Transfer Case Options: Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD with 2WD mode) or Command-Trac (part-time 4WD). Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+3 (Chrysler) Manual Transmission Fluid Type: AX-15: SAE 75W-90 (API GL-4 or GL-5, check manual for specific recommendation) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 103.4 inches (2626 mm) Length: 167.2 inches (4247 mm) Width: 71.2 inches (1808 mm) Height: 66.1 inches (1679 mm) Ground Clearance: Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) (varies slightly with trim/options) Weights Curb Weight Range: 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724...
If PDF, includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 1:
4.0L OHV V6 (60-degree)
Engine Displacement 1:
3956 cc (241.4 cu in)
Engine Bore X Stroke 1:
91.1 mm x 77.7 mm (3.59 in x 3.06 in)
Engine Compression Ratio 1:
8.8:1
Engine Horsepower 1:
190 hp @ 4400 rpm
Engine Torque 1:
225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Block Material 1:
Cast Iron
Engine Cylinder Head Material 1:
Cast Iron
Engine Fuel Delivery 1:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Ignition System 1:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Engine Variants
Optional Engine Available:
No, 4.0L OHV V6 was standard for this year.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AW4)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (AX-15)
Features
Transfer Case Options:
Selec-Trac (full-time 4WD with 2WD mode) or Command-Trac (part-time 4WD).
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
AX-15: SAE 75W-90 (API GL-4 or GL-5, check manual for specific recommendation)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
103.4 inches (2626 mm)
Length:
167.2 inches (4247 mm)
Width:
71.2 inches (1808 mm)
Height:
66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) (varies slightly with trim/options)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
3,500 - 3,800 lbs (1588 - 1724 kg) (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4,700 - 5,200 lbs (2132 - 2359 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 34.5 cu ft (977 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 69.0 cu ft (1954 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating 97:
Likely 3-star or 4-star (NHTSA ratings for this era are less comprehensive).
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point active belts, rear lap and shoulder belts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges and controls.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS (optional rear-wheel). No modern driver-assistance systems.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports; aftermarket solutions are common.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on usage and fluid type).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically copper or platinum).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Capacity 1:
10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations); 5.5 quarts (5.2 L) with filter.
Engine Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Conquest Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Mopar P/S Fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Headliner sag, especially in warmer climates.
Common Issue 2:
Oil filter adapter housing leaks (common on 4.0L).
Common Issue 3:
Cracked exhaust manifolds (on the 4.0L engine).
Common Issue 4:
Water pump leaks and bearing failures.
Common Issue 5:
Door hinge wear and sagging doors.
Common Issue 6:
Leaf spring 'sags' or breaks due to age and load.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness, off-road prowess, and utility, originating from its military WWII roots.
Model Evolution
Xj Generation:
The XJ Cherokee, introduced in 1984, was revolutionary for its time, being the first compact SUV and pioneering unibody construction in its class.
Xj Redesign 1997:
The 1997 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the XJ, including a redesigned interior, exterior styling updates (new front and rear fascias, updated grille), improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety features.
Production
Xj Production Years:
1984-2001 (North America, last year for US market)
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Recognition:
The XJ Cherokee was widely praised for its off-road capability and was often considered one of the most trail-worthy SUVs available in its segment.
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