Compact SUV, positioned as a capable and versatile off-road vehicle with a utilitarian focus, appealing to adventurers and families seeking durable utility.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 1987:
âą Chevrolet S-10 Blazer
âą Ford Bronco II
âą Toyota 4Runner
âą Nissan Pathfinder
Key Features
Vehicle Key Attributes:
âą Body-on-frame construction
âą Solid front axle (initially, later replaced by IFS on some models, but 1987 is typically solid)
âą Leaf spring rear suspension
âą Renowned off-road capability
âą Compact and maneuverable size
Manual Value Proposition
Manual Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving money and ensuring quality, while understanding their vehicle's intricate systems.
đ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Engine Options Covered:
âą 2.5L AMC I4 (150 cu in)
âą 4.0L AMC I6 (242 cu in)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
đ Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
âą Engine Mechanical (2.5L I4, 4.0L I6)
âą Fuel System
âą Ignition System
âą Exhaust System
âą Cooling System
âą Lubrication System
âą Manual Transmission (AX-4, AX-5)
âą Automatic Transmission (AW-4, TF-999, TF-40)
Drivetrain:
âą Transfer Case (NP231, NP242)
âą Front Axle (Dana 30)
âą Rear Axle (Chrysler 8.25, Dana 35)
Chassis:
âą Suspension System (Front: Leaf Spring/Solid Axle, Rear: Leaf Spring)
âą Steering System
âą Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Drum)
âą Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
âą Battery and Charging System
âą Starting System
âą Lighting System
âą Instrumentation
âą Wiring Diagrams (Comprehensive)
âą Body Control Modules (BCM)
âą Fuse and Relay Locations
Body:
âą Body Structure and Panels
âą Doors, Hood, Tailgate
âą Interior Trim and Upholstery
âą Glass and Sealing
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
âą Oil and Filter Changes
âą Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs
âą Spark Plug Replacement
âą Air Filter Replacement
âą Belts and Hoses Inspection/Replacement
âą Brake Pad and Rotor Service
âą Battery Maintenance
âą Tire Rotation and Pressure Checks
Repair Procedures:
âą Engine Component Replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump)
âą Transmission Overhaul and Rebuild
âą Clutch Service (Manual Transmission)
âą Brake Caliper and Drum Service
âą Suspension Component Replacement (shocks, leaf springs, bushings)
âą Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
âą Fuel Pump and Injector Service
Troubleshooting:
âą Diagnostic Flowcharts
âą Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides
âą Component Testing Procedures
âą Wiring Diagram Interpretation for Fault Finding
Diagnostic Procedures:
âą OBD-I diagnostics (if applicable and documented)
âą Component testing procedures for fuel, ignition, and emissions systems
âą Troubleshooting guides for common electrical faults using wiring diagrams
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
đ Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Digital Resolution:
High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Searchability
Text Searchability:
Searchable text within the PDF allows for quick access to specific topics and procedures.
âïž Engine Specifications
Primary Engine 1
Engine Code:
AMC 242
Displacement Ci:
242
Displacement Liters:
4.0
Configuration:
Inline-6 (I6)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Cast Iron
Bore X Stroke In:
3.875 x 3.414
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1
Horsepower Net Approx:
173 hp @ 4500 rpm
Torque Net Approx:
220 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor with electronic ignition
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Oil
Recommended Oil Viscosity 40L:
10W-30
Oil Capacity Quarts 40L:
5.0 (with filter)
Secondary Engine
Engine Code:
AMC 150
Displacement Ci:
150
Displacement Liters:
2.5
Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4)
Horsepower Net Approx:
125 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque Net Approx:
170 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Recommended Oil Viscosity 25L:
10W-30
Oil Capacity Quarts 25L:
5.0 (with filter)
đ§ Transmission
Standard Transmission 40L
Transmission Type:
AW-4 Automatic
Gear Count:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:
8.0 (approximate, dry fill)
Optional Transmission 40L
Transmission Type:
TF-999 Automatic
Gear Count:
3-speed Automatic
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:
6.0 (approximate, dry fill)
Manual Transmission Options
Manual Transmission 1:
AX-5 (for 2.5L I4 and some 4.0L I6)
Manual Transmission 2:
AX-4 (less common, mostly earlier models but may appear on some 1987)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity Quarts:
2.5 (approximate)
đ Dimensions
Exterior Dimensions
Wheelbase In:
101.4
Length In:
169.5
Width In:
69.9
Height In:
63.1
Ground Clearance In:
8.7 (approximate)
Approach Angle Degrees:
Approx. 45
Departure Angle Degrees:
Approx. 30
Breakover Angle Degrees:
Approx. 22
Weights
Curb Weight Lbs Approx:
3100-3400 (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs Approx:
4500-4800
Cargo
Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind Rear Seat:
33.2
Cargo Volume Cu Ft Max Folding Rear Seat:
71.2
đĄïž Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Rating 1987:
Not rated (NHTSA testing methodology varied significantly)
Basic AM/FM Radio, optional Cassette Player or CD Player (rare for base models)
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features 1987:
None standard (e.g., no ABS, traction control, cruise control was optional)
đ§ Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,000-5,000 (depending on driving conditions and oil type)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:
30,000-60,000 (varies by usage and fluid type)
Coolant Flush Interval Miles:
30,000-50,000
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
30,000-60,000 (depending on plug type)
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Conventional Green Antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Xj Issues 1987:
âą Head gasket leaks (especially on early 4.0L engines)
âą Radiator leaks/overheating
âą Cracked exhaust manifolds (4.0L)
âą Leaf spring perches cracking/breaking
âą Rust (especially on rocker panels, floor pans, and unibody structure)
âą Water pump seal leaks
âą Power steering pump whine/leaks
âą Door hinge wear and sag
âą Dashboard cracking
âą ABS issues (if equipped, though less common on base 1987 models)
đ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Jeep Brand Legacy:
Founded in 1941 with the Willys MB, Jeep has a long and storied history of producing rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, particularly known for its military heritage and off-road prowess.
Model Evolution
Xj Generation Introduction:
The XJ Cherokee was introduced for the 1984 model year, revolutionizing the SUV market by being the first mass-produced compact SUV with unibody construction, offering a lighter, more fuel-efficient, and car-like ride compared to traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
Xj 1987 Updates:
The 1987 model year saw significant updates, most notably the introduction of the legendary 4.0L inline-six engine, which quickly became the preferred powerplant due to its torque and smoothness. Minor styling tweaks and interior revisions may have also occurred.
Production
Xj Production Years:
1984-2001
Xj Manufacturing Location:
Toledo, Ohio, USA
đ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Popular Mechanics Editors Choice:
Awarded 'Four Wheeler of the Year' by Four Wheeler magazine in 1984, which set the standard for the compact SUV class and influenced many subsequent models.
Ratings
Overall Automotive Reputation:
The XJ Cherokee is widely regarded as an automotive icon for its durability, off-road capability, and longevity, with a strong enthusiast following.