🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Jeep Model: Cherokee XJ Years Covered: 1997, 1998, 1999 Codes Model Code: XJ 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact SUV / Off-road vehicle. Target Audience: Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed technical information for maintaining and repairing their Jeep Cherokee XJ. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder. Key Features Vehicle Legacy: The XJ Cherokee is renowned for its unibody construction, robust drivetrain options, and legendary off-road capability. Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving costs and extending vehicle life. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic procedures. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (typical for this era's factory manuals: 1500-2500+ pages). Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, tuning, and component repair for all applicable variants. Transmission: Detailed procedures for both automatic (e.g., AW4, 42RE) and manual (e.g., AX-15, NV3550) transmissions, including overhaul, adjustment, and fluid service. Drivetrain: Coverage of transfer cases (e.g., NP231, NP242), axles (Dana 30 front, Chrysler 8.25 rear), driveshafts, U-joints, and differentials. Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems, including coil springs, leaf springs (rear), shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, and alignment procedures. Steering: Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, and related components. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS diagnosis and repair, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, and parking brake. Electrical: Complete electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams for all circuits, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starter, and accessories. Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, and evaporative emission control system. Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, and heater core replacement and service. Exhaust System: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, component replacement, and refrigerant service. Body And Interior: Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement, and paint repair guidance. Diagnostic Trouble Codes: Extensive coverage of OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures, and symptom-based troubleshooting. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, and tune-ups. Diagnostics: Systematic diagnostic routines for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical issues. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for common and complex repairs, component replacement, and adjustments. Rebuilds: Detailed guidance for overhauling major components like engines and transmissions. Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, and other critical data. Troubleshooting: Flowcharts and guides for diagnosing specific problems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval. Print Quality Quality: Professional quality, intended for clear reproduction of diagrams and text. Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type 1: 4.0L (242 cid) Inline 6-Cylinder 'High Output' (MPI - Multi-Point Injection) Engine Code 1: ERH (1997-1999) Horsepower 1: Approx. 185-190 hp @ 4700 rpm (varies slightly by year) Torque 1: Approx. 220-225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies slightly by year) Optional Engine Engine Type 2: 2.5L (150 cid) 4-Cylinder 'High Output' (MPI) Engine Code 2: ENH (1997-1999) Horsepower 2: Approx. 125 hp @ 4600 rpm Torque 2: Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm Fuel System Injection Type: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended) Ignition System Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Transmission Type 1: 4-speed Automatic (e.g., AW4) Optional Transmission Transmission Type 2: 5-speed Manual (e.g., AX-15 or NV3550) Features Transfer Case Options: New Process (NP) 231 (Command-Trac 2-speed part-time 4WD) or NP 242 (Selec-Trac full-time 4WD). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 101.4 inches (2576 mm) Length: 169.9 inches (4315 mm) Width: 70.5 inches (1791 mm) Height: 64.4 inches (1636 mm) Weights Curb Weight Approx Kg: 1500-1700 kg (depending on engine and drivetrain) Towing Capacity Kg Approx: 2000-3500 kg (depending on configuration and engine) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating: Not readily available for this specific model year under current NHTSA standards as it predates many modern testing protocols. Active Features ABS: Available as an option, particularly on higher trims or later production models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags. Seat Belts: Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear seat belts (later models may have three-point in rear). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: Factory AM/FM/Cassette or AM/FM/CD players. Options for premium sound systems. Speakers: Typically 4 or 6 speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most trims. Power Features: Power windows, power locks, power mirrors were common options. Connectivity OBD Ii Port: Yes, compliant with...
Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed technical information for maintaining and repairing their Jeep Cherokee XJ.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Key Features
Vehicle Legacy:
The XJ Cherokee is renowned for its unibody construction, robust drivetrain options, and legendary off-road capability.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving costs and extending vehicle life.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
General Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic procedures.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical for this era's factory manuals: 1500-2500+ pages).
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, tuning, and component repair for all applicable variants.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for both automatic (e.g., AW4, 42RE) and manual (e.g., AX-15, NV3550) transmissions, including overhaul, adjustment, and fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Coverage of transfer cases (e.g., NP231, NP242), axles (Dana 30 front, Chrysler 8.25 rear), driveshafts, U-joints, and differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including coil springs, leaf springs (rear), shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, and related components.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS diagnosis and repair, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, and parking brake.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams for all circuits, lighting, ignition system, charging system, starter, and accessories.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, and evaporative emission control system.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, and heater core replacement and service.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, component replacement, and refrigerant service.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement, and paint repair guidance.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Extensive coverage of OBD-II codes, diagnostic procedures, and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, and tune-ups.
Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic routines for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for common and complex repairs, component replacement, and adjustments.
Rebuilds:
Detailed guidance for overhauling major components like engines and transmissions.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, and other critical data.
Troubleshooting:
Flowcharts and guides for diagnosing specific problems.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Quality:
Professional quality, intended for clear reproduction of diagrams and text.
Approx. 185-190 hp @ 4700 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Torque 1:
Approx. 220-225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Optional Engine
Engine Type 2:
2.5L (150 cid) 4-Cylinder 'High Output' (MPI)
Engine Code 2:
ENH (1997-1999)
Horsepower 2:
Approx. 125 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque 2:
Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Ignition System
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs.
🔧 Transmission
Standard Transmission
Transmission Type 1:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., AW4)
Optional Transmission
Transmission Type 2:
5-speed Manual (e.g., AX-15 or NV3550)
Features
Transfer Case Options:
New Process (NP) 231 (Command-Trac 2-speed part-time 4WD) or NP 242 (Selec-Trac full-time 4WD).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2576 mm)
Length:
169.9 inches (4315 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
64.4 inches (1636 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx Kg:
1500-1700 kg (depending on engine and drivetrain)
Towing Capacity Kg Approx:
2000-3500 kg (depending on configuration and engine)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not readily available for this specific model year under current NHTSA standards as it predates many modern testing protocols.
Active Features
ABS:
Available as an option, particularly on higher trims or later production models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear seat belts (later models may have three-point in rear).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio Options:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or AM/FM/CD players. Options for premium sound systems.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims.
Power Features:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors were common options.
Connectivity
OBD Ii Port:
Yes, compliant with OBD-II standards for emissions and diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Engine Oil:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum/Iridium plugs: ~100,000 miles. Standard plugs: ~30,000 miles (refer to manual for exact type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (check manual for specific fluids).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN or higher, SAE 10W-30 (preferred for 4.0L), SAE 5W-30 also acceptable (check manual).
Engine Coolant Specification:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent HOAT coolant. DO NOT mix with traditional green coolant.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (for models equipped with AW4) or ATF+3 (for older transmissions, check manual for specific application).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar power steering fluid or equivalent ATF type fluid (check manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3.
Known Issues
Common Issues 40L:
Cracked cylinder heads (later 4.0L engines, though less prevalent in this later XJ generation), oil filter adapter leaks, CPS (Crankshaft Position Sensor) failure, distributorless ignition system (DIS) issues.
Jeep has a long history of producing rugged, capable off-road vehicles dating back to World War II.
Model Evolution
Xj Generation Intro:
The XJ Cherokee was a revolutionary vehicle when introduced in 1984, being the first compact SUV with a unibody construction.
Xj Updates 1997 1999:
These model years represent the final facelift of the XJ, featuring updated exterior styling (new front and rear fascias, improved headlights), revised interior with a more modern dashboard and improved ergonomics, and upgraded powertrain options.
Production
Production Period Xj:
1984-2001 (North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Vehicle Awards:
The XJ Cherokee was consistently praised for its off-road prowess, durability, and value. It was often cited in enthusiast magazines and rankings as a top compact SUV and off-roader.