Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable (depending on original scan quality)
Printability:
Printable
Print Quality
Quality:
Digital reproduction of original factory manual (quality may vary based on source)
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Displacement:
4.0 Liters (242 cubic inches)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-6, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Multi-Point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 173 hp @ 4700 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 3.570 in (98.4 mm x 90.7 mm)
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Engine 1 Oil Capacity:
5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Engine 1 Recommended Oil:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific conditions)
Secondary Engine
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (150 cubic inches)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline-4, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-Point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) / Throttle Body Injection (TBI) on some early models
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 116-125 hp
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 135-145 lb-ft
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission 1 Type:
AX-4 (4-Speed Manual)
Optional
Transmission 2 Type:
AW4 (4-Speed Automatic)
Features
Transfer Case:
New Process NP231 Command-Trac (Part-Time 2WD/4WD)
Transmission Fluid Type Aw4:
Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Aw4:
Approx. 7 US quarts (6.6 Liters) for refill
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Overall Length:
167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Overall Width:
69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Overall Height:
62.1 inches (1577 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.7 inches (221 mm) (stock)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
3200-3600 lbs (1450-1630 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4600-4750 lbs (2087-2154 kg)
Wheels And Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
15 x 7 inch
Standard Tire Size:
215/75R15
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inch (5 x 114.3 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3/5 stars (typical for 80s SUVs, manual will detail specific test protocols for the era)
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum; power assist standard
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Front: Shoulder/lap belts; Rear: Lap belts (standard, manual will detail adjustability/retraction features)
Rollover Protection:
Integrated roll bar structure within the unibody design
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player (optional CD player on some models), basic speaker system
Dashboard Controls:
Analog gauges, physical climate controls, radio knobs
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Available on some models, typically rear-wheel only for 1988
Cruise Control:
Optional
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None (basic automotive technology of the era)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depends on driving conditions)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type
Fluid Specifications
Engine Coolant:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III
Transfer Case Fluid:
NP231: ATF Dexron II or III
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (check manual for specific axle types and limited-slip additives if applicable)
Known Issues
Common Issues 40L:
Cracked cylinder heads (later versions improved), oil filter adapter seal leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, rear main seal leaks, oil pump drive gear wear
Common Issues Xj:
Rust (particularly rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and unibody frame rails), worn leaf springs, sagging headliner, electrical gremlins (especially grounds), radiator leaks, water pump failures, tie rod ends and ball joint wear
Common Issues Aw4:
Solenoid issues, internal seal wear, TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) issues affecting shift quality
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Legacy:
Jeep has a storied history dating back to World War II with the Willys MB, known for its ruggedness and off-road prowess.
Model Evolution
Xj Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced for the 1984 model year, revolutionizing the SUV market as the first mass-produced 'compact' SUV with a unibody construction.
Xj Generation 1:
1984-1996. The 1988 model is part of the first generation, with significant styling and mechanical updates occurring throughout its lifespan.
Engine Development:
The legendary AMC 4.0L inline-six engine was introduced in 1987, quickly becoming the preferred engine for its power and durability, and would be a staple for Jeep for decades.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years Xj:
1984-2001
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Offroad Magazine Awards:
Often lauded by off-road publications for its capability and aftermarket support. (Specific 1988 awards may vary but it consistently ranked high.)
Industry Impact:
Pioneered the modern compact SUV segment, setting a benchmark for off-road performance and utility.