Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, measurement tolerances
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits, color-coded tracing
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable (OCR processed)
Printability:
Printable pages
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High resolution (clear diagrams and photos)
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine Code:
4.0L (242 ci) - 'Select-Shift'
Displacement:
3957 cc (4.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
3.88 in x 3.41 in (98.5 mm x 86.7 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Horsepower:
181 hp @ 4,750 rpm
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (Recommended)
Engine Cooling
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized Liquid Cooling
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Coolant Capacity:
12.1 US quarts (11.4 Liters)
Thermostat Rating:
195°F (90.5°C)
Engine Oil
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 API Certified
Oil Capacity:
5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mopar: 53020612, Fram: PH8A, Wix: 51085
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Manual Transmission
Transmission Model:
AX-15 (4.0L engine)
Gears:
5-speed forward, 1-speed reverse
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for the AX-15. Manual Trans: Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant or equivalent.
Optional
Transmission Type:
Automatic Transmission
Transmission Model:
42RLE (Later model TJ, but 4-speed 32RH likely for '97 with 4.0L)
Gears:
3-speed forward, 1-speed reverse (32RH)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (for 42RLE), ATF+3 (for 32RH)
Features
Transfer Case:
NV231 Command-Trac (2WD High, N, 4WD High, 4WD Low)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
Mopar NV231 Transfer Case Lubricant or equivalent
Transfer Case Fluid Capacity:
1.7 US quarts (1.6 Liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
93.4 inches (2372 mm)
Length:
150.2 inches (3815 mm)
Width:
66.5 inches (1689 mm)
Height:
71.6 inches (1819 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.3 inches (211 mm)
Approach Angle:
41.7 degrees
Departure Angle:
30.3 degrees
Breakover Angle:
27.5 degrees
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,400 - 4,600 lbs (1996 - 2087 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2,000 lbs (907 kg) standard
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
15 x 8 inches
Standard Tire Size:
30x9.50R15
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 4.5 inches (5 x 114.3 mm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars (for 4x4 models)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels
Traction Control:
N/A (not available on 1997 TJ)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel front seat belts, lap belts in rear
Rollover Protection:
Integral roll cage structure
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available.
Speakers:
Typically 2 or 4 speakers depending on trim.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional
Keyless Entry:
Optional
Connectivity
Aux Input:
N/A (not standard)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (traditional) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions)
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Inspect annually, change as needed / Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Oil filter adapter O-ring leaks, rear main seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks, head gasket issues (less common on 4.0L compared to some other Chrysler engines), catalytic converter failure.
Common Problems Transmission:
Clutch wear (manual), input shaft seal leaks, bearing noise (manual), valve body issues (automatic).
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints, worn control arm bushings, steering box wear, track bar issues (if equipped), death wobble (can be caused by multiple worn suspension components).
Common Problems Electrical:
Window motor failure, alternator issues, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) failure, bad grounds.
Common Repairs
U Joint Replacement:
Frequent replacement due to off-road use and potential wear.
Radiator Replacement:
Can be prone to clogging or leaks over time.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Jeep has a rich heritage dating back to World War II with the iconic Willys MB, known for its off-road prowess and utility.
Model Evolution
Tj Introduction:
The TJ generation replaced the YJ Wrangler in 1997, introducing significant updates like coil springs instead of leaf springs and a coil-over-shock rear suspension for improved ride and articulation.
Tj Key Changes From Yj:
Coil spring suspension, revised interior, improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) characteristics, standard driver airbag.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
Production Years
Tj Production Span:
1997-2006
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Ranking:
Consistently ranked as one of the most capable off-road vehicles in its class by automotive publications.
Value Retention:
Known for strong resale value due to its iconic status and enduring demand.
Ratings
Consumer Satisfaction:
Generally positive, particularly for its core off-road capabilities, though sometimes criticized for on-road refinement and interior amenities.