1994 JEEP CHEROKEE VIC

CAUTION: Do not overfill the engine crankcase with
oil. This will cause oil aeration and result in a de-
crease in the engine oil pressure.
(9) Start the engine and observe the oil pressure
gauge or warning lamp. If the pressure does not in-
crease or the warning lamp does not go out, stop the
engine and determine the cause of the problem.
USED ENGINE OIL DISPOSAL
Care should be exercised when disposing used en-
gine oil after it has been drained from a vehicle en-
gine. Refer to the WARNING listed above.
COOLING SYSTEM
WARNING: USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN RE-
MOVING THE RADIATOR CAP IF THE ENGINE IS
OPERATING. DO NOT PUT YOUR HANDS NEAR
THE DRIVE BELT(S), PULLEYS OR FAN BLADE. DO
NOT STAND IN A DIRECT LINE WITH THE FAN
BLADE.
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The engine coolant level should be determined at
least once a month and more often during periods of
hot weather. Add coolant as necessary.
COOLANT LEVEL
With the engine at normal operating temperature,
observe the coolant level in thecoolant recovery bot-
tle. The coolant level must be at least above the ADD
mark and preferably at the FULL mark. Add coolant
to the coolant recovery bottleonly, if necessary.
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE
Check coolant level, and inspect condition of cool-
ing system hoses and clamps after each 12 000-km
(7,500-miles).
Initially, coolant must be drained and cooling sys-
tem flushed and filled after the first 36 months of op-
eration. Thereafter, after each 24-months interval of
vehicle operation.
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The engine cooling system should be inspected for
proper operation and for component failure at least
every 12 months.
WARNING: IF THE ENGINE HAS BEEN RECENTLY
OPERATED, USE EXTREME CARE WHEN REMOV-
ING THE RADIATOR CAP TO AVOID SCALDING
WITH HOT, PRESSURIZED COOLANT.
For additional information, refer to Section 7, Cool-
ing System.COOLANT FREEZE PROTECTION
Jeeptcooling systems contain a 50/50 mixture of
anti-freeze and distilled water coolant. This is the
recommended coolant mixture for most ambient tem-
peratures. The factory-installed anti-freeze is formu-
lated to prevent corrosion on all cooling system metal
surfaces.
The degree of coolant freeze protection should be
tested every 12 months. If the coolant is contami-
nated orrustyin appearance, cooling system should
be drained and filled with a 50/50 mixture of fresh
coolant. For additional information, refer to Group
7ÐCooling System.
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER ELEMENT
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
Engine performance and fuel economy can be af-
fected by a restricted air cleaner filter. The filter
should be inspected on a regular basis for excessive
air restriction.
If the filter element is saturated with oil, replace
the filter element.
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE
Engine air cleaner filter must be replaced after
each 48 000-km (30,000-miles).
If a vehicle is frequently operated in dusty
areas, the air cleaner filter should be inspected
often.
FILTER ELEMENT SERVICE/REPLACEMENT
(1) Remove the air cleaner cover from the body/
housing (Fig. 9).
(2) Remove the air cleaner filter element from the
body/housing.
Fig. 9 Air Cleaner & Filter ElementÐ2.5L and 4.0L
Engines
0 - 16 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

CAUTION: Do not tap the filter element or immerse
the filter in liquid to remove trapped particles.
(3) Clean filter element by gently blowing the
trapped particles from the filter with compressed air.
Direct air in the opposite direction of normal intake
air flow. Keep air nozzle at least two inches away
from the filter to avoid damage to filter.
(4) If the filter has become partially saturated with
oil, replace the filter. Test the crankcase ventilating
(CCV) system for proper operation.
(5) Wash the air cleaner cover and body/housing
(Figs. 10) with cleaning solvent and wipe dry.
(6) Install the air cleaner filter element and attach
the cover to the body/housing.
CRANKCASE VENTILATION SYSTEM
All Jeept2.5L and 4.0L engines are equipped with
a crankcase ventilation (CCV) system. Refer to
Group 25ÐEmissions, for additional information.
FUEL USAGE STATEMENTÐGAS ENGINES
Jeeptvehicles are designed to meet all emission
regulations and provide excellent fuel economy using
high quality unleaded gasoline. Only use unleaded
gasolines having a minimum posted octane of 87.
If a Jeeptvehicle develops occasional light spark
knock (ping) at low engine speeds, this is not harm-
ful. However,continued heavy knock at high
speeds can cause damage and should be
checked immediately.Engine damage as a result of
heavy knock operation may not be covered by the
new vehicle warranty.In addition to using unleaded gasoline with the
proper octane rating,those that contain deter-
gents, corrosion and stability additives are rec-
ommended.Using gasolines that have these
additives will help improve fuel economy, reduce
emissions and maintain vehicle performance. Gener-
ally, premium unleaded gasolines contain more addi-
tive than regular unleaded gasolines.
Poor quality gasolinecan cause problems such as
hard starting, stalling and stumble. If these problems
occur, use another brand of gasoline before consider-
ing servicing the vehicle.
GASOLINE/OXYGENATE BLENDS
Some fuel suppliers blend unleaded gasoline with
materials that contain oxygen such as alcohol, MTBE
and ETBE. The type and amount of oxygenate used
in the blend is important. The following are gener-
ally used in gasoline blends:
ETHANOL
Ethanol (Ethyl or Grain Alcohol) properly blended,
is used as a mixture of 10 percent ethanol and 90
percent gasoline.Gasoline with ethanol may be
used in your vehicle.
METHANOL
CAUTION: Do not use gasolines containing metha-
nol. Use of methanol/gasoline blends may result in
starting and driveability problems. In addition, dam-
age may be done to critical fuel system compo-
nents.
Methanol (Methyl or Wood Alcohol) is used in a va-
riety of concentrations blended with unleaded gaso-
line. You may encounter fuels containing 3 percent
or more methanol along with other alcohols called co-
solvents.
Problems that are the result of using methanol/gas-
oline blends are not the responsibility of Chrysler
Corporation. They may not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
MTBE/ETBE
Gasoline and MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether)
blends are a mixture of unleaded gasoline and up to
15 percent MTBE. Gasoline and ETBE (Ethyl Ter-
tiary Butyl Ether) are blends of gasoline and up to
17 percent ETBE. Gasoline blended with MTBE or
ETBE may be used.
CLEAN AIR GASOLINE
Many gasolines are now being blended that con-
tribute to cleaner air, especially in those areas of the
country where air pollution levels are high. These
new blends provide a cleaner burning fuel and some
are referred to asReformulated Gasoline.
Fig. 10 Air Cleaner Body/Housing & Cover
JLUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 17

In areas of the country where carbon monoxide lev-
els are high, gasolines are being treated with oxy-
genated materials such as MTBE, ETBE and
ethanol.
Chrysler Corporation supports these efforts toward
cleaner air and recommends the use of these gaso-
lines as they become available.
IGNITION CABLES, DISTRIBUTOR CAP AND
ROTOR
REQUIRED IGNITION SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
The ignition cables, distributor cap and rotor must
be replaced after each 96 000-km (60,000-miles). Re-
fer to Group 8DÐIgnition Systems for additional in-
formation.
IGNITION TIMING
The ignition timing for 2.5L and 4.0L engines is
not adjustable. Refer to the specifications listed on
the engine Emission Control Information Label. Re-
fer to Group 25ÐEmission Control Systems for addi-
tional information.
SPARK PLUGS
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE
The spark plugs must be replaced after each 48
000-km (30,000-miles). Refer to the Spark Plugs
chart below and to Group 8DÐIgnition Systems for
additional information.
BATTERY
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The battery electrolyte level should be checked and
the cable clamps should be inspected for corrosion.
This should be done when the oil is changed and the
oil filter is replaced.
The battery cables should be inspected for abnor-
mal clamp and battery terminal post corrosion. Ser-
vice the terminals and cable clamps as necessary.In addition, the general condition of the battery
should be determined before the start of cold and hot
weather seasons. If the battery condition is marginal
or worse, it should be replaced.
Care should be taken when disposing a bat-
tery after removal from a vehicle. Lead-acid bat-
teries are highly poisonous and, when
indiscriminately disposed, could create a prob-
lem for the environment. Contact the applicable
local city or county government agency to deter-
mine where automobile (lead-acid) batteries can
be properly disposed in the local area.
INSPECTION/SERVICE
WARNING: WEAR SAFETY GLASSES, RUBBER
GLOVES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING WHEN HAN-
DLING/SERVICING A BATTERY. THE BATTERY
ELECTROLYTE CONTAINS SULFURIC ACID AND
WILL CAUSE HARM IF IT CONTACTS SKIN, EYES
OR CLOTHING. IT WILL ALSO DAMAGE PAINTED
(AS WELL AS UN-PAINTED) SURFACES OF A VEHI-
CLE. IF SULFURIC ACID CONTACTS ANY OF
THESE, FLUSH IMMEDIATELY WITH LARGE
AMOUNTS OF WATER. IF SULFURIC ACID CON-
TACTS SKIN OR EYES, GET IMMEDIATE MEDICAL
ATTENTION. DO NOT SMOKE IN THE VICINITY OF
A BATTERY. KEEP OPEN FLAMES AND SPARKS
AWAY FROM BATTERY FILLER CAPS BECAUSE
EXPLOSIVE GAS IS ALWAYS PRESENT.
(1) Disconnect the battery negative cable and then
the positive cable.
(2) Clean the battery cable clamps and terminal
posts with a wire brush and a battery terminal
cleaner.
(3) Pry the battery cell filler caps upward to re-
move them and inspect each filler well (low-mainte-
nance batteries only, not applicable to maintenance-
free batteries). It could possibly be necessary to
loosen the battery holddown clamp to remove the
caps. Maintain the electrolyte level above the battery
plates and at the bottom of the filler well ring. Add
distilled water or low-mineral content drinking wa-
ter, if necessary. In freezing weather (below 0ÉC/
32ÉF), add the water just before driving to ensure
that it mixes thoroughly with the electrolyte. This
will prevent it from freezing.
(4) Remove the battery holddown strap and clean
the battery case/battery tray.Clean with bicarbonate
of soda (baking soda) and water. Rinse and dry the
battery case/tray thoroughly after cleaning.
(5) Position the battery in the tray and install the
holddown strap.Do not over-tighten the nuts.
(6) Connect the battery positive cable and then the
negative cable to the battery.
SPARK PLUGS
0 - 18 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS
Only 2WD XJ vehicles are equipped with front
wheel bearings. XJ vehicles have semi-floating axle
shafts and axle shaft bearings that are lubricated via
differential lube oil.
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCEÐ2WD XJ
VEHICLES
The front wheel bearings should be lubricated (re-
packed) at the same time as front brake pad/caliper
service is conducted.
LUBRICANT SPECIFICATION
Wheel bearings should be lubricated with a lubri-
cant that is identified as NLGI GC-LB lubricant.
INSPECTION/LUBRICATION
(1) Remove the wheel/tire and the disc brake cali-
per.Do not disconnect the caliper brake fluid
hose unless the caliper must also be removed for
maintenance. Support the caliper with a hanger
to prevent brake fluid hose damage.
(2) Remove the dust cap, the cotter pin, the nut re-
tainer, the adjustment nut, and the thrust washer
from the spindle (Fig. 3). Discard the cotter pin.
(3) Remove the wheel outer bearing from the hub.
(4) Remove the wheel hub/disc brake rotor from
the spindle.
(5) Remove the seal and the inner wheel bearing
from the hub cavity.
(6) After removal, inspect both front wheel bearing
races for indications of pitting, brinelling and exces-
sive heat.
(7) Wipe the spindle clean and apply a small
amount of chassis/wheel bearing lubricant (NLGI
GC-LB lubricant) to prevent rust. Wipe the wheel
hub cavity clean.
CAUTION: Do not over-fill the wheel hub cavity with
lubricant. Excessive lubricant can cause overheat-ing and bearing damage. Also, excessive lubricant
can be forced out of the wheel hub cavity and con-
taminate the brake rotor/pads.
(8) Partially fill the wheel hub cavity with chassis/
wheel bearing lubricant (NLGI GC-LB lubricant).
(9) Pack the wheel bearings with chassis/wheel
bearing lubricant (NLGI GC-LB lubricant). Ensure
that sufficient lubricant is forced between the bear-
ing rollers.
(10) Install the wheel inner bearing in the wheel
hub and install a replacement seal.
(11) Clean the disc brake rotor contact surfaces, if
necessary.
(12) Install the wheel hub/disc brake rotor on the
spindle.
(13) Install the wheel outer bearing, the thrust
washer, and the spindle nut.
(14) Tighten the spindle nut with 28 NIm (21 ft.
lbs.) torque while rotating the disc brake rotor to
seat the bearings.
(15) Loosen the spindle nut 1/2 turn. While rotat-
ing the disc brake rotor, tighten the spindle nut with
2NIm (19 in. lbs.) torque.
(16) Install the nut retainer and a replacement cot-
ter pin.
(17) Clean the dust cap and apply wheel bearing
lubricant to the inside surface.Do not fill the dust
cap with lubricant.
(18) Install the dust cap.
(19) Install the disc brake caliper.
POWER STEERING SYSTEM
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The condition of power steering system should be
inspected and the fluid level checked. Add fluid as
necessary.
FLUID SPECIFICATION
Jeeptpower steering systems require MOPAR
Power Steering Fluid, or an equivalent product.
The original power steering fluid installed in
Jeeptvehicles includes black-light leak detec-
tion dye.
INSPECTION
Inspect the power steering system (Figs. 4 and 5)
for the sources of fluid leaks, steering gear housing
cracks and ensure that the steering gear is securely
attached to the vehicle frame rail. Inspect the steer-
ing damper for leaks and loose connections.
FLUID LEVEL
The fluid level dipstick is attached to the reservoir
cap (Fig. 6). The fluid level in the reservoir can be
determined with the fluid either hot or cold.
(1) Remove the cap from the reservoir.
Fig. 3 2WD Front Wheel BearingsÐXJ Vehicles
JLUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 31

(2) Depending on fluid temperature, if the level is
below the FULL HOT mark or the FULL COLD
mark on the dipstick, add power steering fluid.
(3) Install the cap on the reservoir.
MANUAL STEERING GEARÐYJ VEHICLES
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The manual steering gear should be inspected for
damage at the same time as the engine oil is
changed and the oil filter is replaced. Repair as nec-essary (refer to Group 19ÐSteering for additional in-
formation and service procedures).
POWER BRAKE SYSTEM
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The condition of the brake system should be in-
spected and the fluid level in the master cylinder
should be checked each time the brake system is ser-
viced. Add brake fluid and repair as necessary.
In addition, the brake system should be operation-
ally tested periodically to ensure that it is function-
ing normally.
FLUID SPECIFICATION
Jeeptpower brake systems require MOPAR
Heavy-Duty Brake Fluid, or an equivalent product
identified as conforming to FMVSS No. 116, DOT-3
and SAE J-1703 specifications.
Usenew brake fluid onlywhen adding fluid to
the reservoir, to fill the brake system. Never use re-
claimed fluid.
BRAKE FLUID LEVEL
STANDARD POWER BRAKE SYSTEM
(1) Clean the cover and the sides of the brake fluid
reservoir.
(2) Detach the bail retainer from the reservoir
cover and remove the cover from the reservoir.
(3) The brake fluid level should be 6 mm (1/4 in)
below the rim of each reservoir well for XJ and YJ
Vehicles (Fig. 7). If not, add brake fluid as necessary.
(4) Inspect the reservoir cover bail retainer for ten-
sion and the cover for proper fit. The cover should fit
tight and have a good seal.
Fig. 4 Power Steering SystemÐXJ Vehicles
Fig. 5 Power Steering SystemÐYJ Vehicles
Fig. 6 Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
DipstickÐTypical
0 - 32 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

(6) Inspect the disc brake caliper dust boot for cor-
rect installation, damage/tears and indications of
brake fluid leakage. Inspect the bushings and pins
for corrosion, tears and a binding condition.
(7) Pull the rear wheel cylinder dust boot back to
expose the wheel cylinder housing and inspect for
fluid leaks. Inspect the pistons and cylinder bores for
proper appearance.
(8) Inspect the brake differential warning valve
and housing for indications of leakage, kinked hoses
and loose fittings.
PARK BRAKE
(1) As applicable, engage the park brake lever or
pedal and then release it.
(2) If the park brake is functioning normally, test
it for smooth operation and vehicle-holding capabil-
ity.
(3) Inspect the park brake cables for kinks, fraying
and a binding condition.
(4) With the park brake released, the rear wheels
should rotate without restriction. Adjust the park
brake cable tension at the equalizer (Fig. 10), if nec-
essary.
(5) Repair any park brake malfunctions.
BRAKE OPERATIONAL TEST
(1) Drive the vehicle and test for proper brake ac-
tion.
(2) Note any indication of drum/rotor overheating,
wheel dragging or the vehicle pulling to one side
when the brakes are applied.
(3) Evaluate any performance complaints received
from the owner/operator.
(4) Repair the brake system as necessary (refer to
Group 5ÐBrakes for additional information and ser-
vice procedures).
TIRES
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The general condition of the tires and the inflation
pressures should be inspected at the same time the
engine oil is changed and the oil filter is replaced.
In addition, the tires/wheels should be rotated pe-
riodically to ensure even tread wear and maximum
tread life. The tires/wheels should be rotated initially
after the first 12 000-km (7,500-miles). Thereafter,
after each 24 000-km (15,000-miles) interval of vehi-
cle operation has elapsed.
INSPECTION
Inspect the tires for excessive wear, damage, etc.
Test the tires for the recommended inflation pres-
sure. Refer to the tire inflation pressure decal located
on the inside of the glove box door, and also to Group
22ÐTires And Wheels.
ROTATION
Refer to Group 22ÐTires And Wheels for the rec-
ommended method of tire/wheel rotation for a Jeept
vehicle.
BODY COMPONENTS
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
Body components should be lubricated (as required)
after each 48 000-km (30,000-miles) interval of vehi-
cle operation has elapsed.
LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS
All applicable exterior and interior body compo-
nents should be:
²inspected for excessive wear,
²cleaned, and
²all pivot/sliding contact areas of the components
should be lubricated with the specified lubricant.
Refer to the Body Lubricant Specifications chart
below. When excessive wear is apparent, replace/re-
pair as necessary.
LUBRICATION
All pivoting and sliding contact areas, including:
²seat tracks,
²door hinges/latches/strikers, and
²liftgate/tailgate/hood hinges (Fig. 11),
should be lubricated periodically to ensure quiet,
easy operation and to protect against wear and cor-
rosion.
(1) As required, lubricate the body components
with the specified lubricants.
(2) When lubricating door weatherstrip seals, ap-
ply the lubricant to a cloth and wipe it on the seal.
(3) Prior to the application of lubricant, the compo-
nent should be wiped clean to remove dust, grit and
debris. After lubrication, any excess lubricant should
be removed.
Fig. 10 Park Brake Equalizer (XJ)ÐTypical
0 - 34 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE
CONTENTS
page page
AXLE NOISE/VIBRATION DIAGNOSIS....... 16
FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT............... 5
GENERAL INFORMATION.................. 1
MODEL 30 AXLE AND TUBE AXLE (2WD) . . 20TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS................ 47
XJ FRONT SUSPENSION................. 10
YJ FRONT SUSPENSION................. 13
GENERAL INFORMATION
FRONT SUSPENSION
XJ VEHICLES
The Cherokee front suspension is a link/coil design
comprised of (Fig. 1);
²Drive axle (4WD), tube axle (2WD)
²Track bar
²Stabilizer bar
²Upper and lower suspension arms
²Coil springs
²Dual-action shock absorbers²Jounce bumpers (used to limit the travel of the
suspension)
The link/coil suspension allows each wheel to adapt
to different road surfaces without greatly affecting
the opposite wheel. Wheels are attached to a hub/
bearings which bolts to the knuckles. The hub/bear-
ing is not serviceable and is replaced as a unit.
Steering knuckles pivot on replaceable ball studs at-
tached to the axle tube yokes.
The upper and lower suspension arms are different
lengths, with bushings at both ends. They bolt the
Fig. 1 XJ Front Suspension
JFRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 1

The shocks absorbers dampen jounce and rebound
of the vehicle over various road conditions. The top of
the shock absorbers are bolted to the frame. The bot-
tom of the shocks are bolted to the axle bracket.
The stabilizer bar is used to minimize vehicle front
sway during turns. The spring steel bar helps to con-
trol the vehicle body in relationship to the suspen-
sion. The bar extends across the front underside of
the chassis and connects to the frame rails. Links are
connected from the bar to the axle brackets. Stabi-
lizer bar mounts are isolated by rubber bushings.
The track bar is used to minimize front axle side-
to-side movement. The track bar is attached to a
frame rail bracket and the axle bracket.
The bar uses bushings at both ends.
FRONT DRIVE AXLE
It is not necessary to remove the complete axle
from the vehicle for routine differential service. If
the differential housing or axle shaft tubes are dam-
aged, the complete axle assembly can be removed
and serviced.
For complete drive axle assembly removal and in-
stallation refer to Drive Axle Assembly Replacement
in this Group.
The removable cover provides for servicing without
removing axle from vehicle.
The integral type housing, hypoid gear design has
the centerline of the pinion set above the centerline
of the ring gear.
The Model 30 axle has the assembly part number
and gear ratio listed on a tag. The tag is attached to
the housing cover (Fig. 4). Build date identification
codes are stamped on the axle shaft tube cover side.XJ and YJ axles are equipped with an optional
A.B.S. brake system. The A.B.S. tone rings are
pressed onto the axle shaft near the hub and
knuckle. For additional information on the A.B.S.
system refer to Group 5, Brakes.
²XJ vehicles use a non-disconnect axle.
²YJ vehicles use a vacuum disconnect axle (Fig. 5).
STANDARD DIFFERENTIAL OPERATION
The differential gear system divides the torque be-
tween the axle shafts. It allows the axle shafts to ro-
tate at different speeds when turning corners.
Each differential side gear is splined to an axle
shaft. The pinion gears are mounted on a pinion
mate shaft and are free to rotate on the shaft. The
pinion gear is fitted in a bore in the differential case
and is positioned at a right angle to the axle shafts.
In operation, power flow occurs as follows:
²Pinion gear rotates the ring gear
²Ring gear (bolted to the differential case) rotates
the case
²Differential pinion gears (mounted on the pinion
mate shaft in the case) rotate the side gears
²Side gears (splined to the axle shafts) rotate the
shafts
During straight-ahead driving, the differential pin-
ion gears do not rotate on the pinion mate shaft. This
occurs because input torque applied to gears is di-
vided and distributed equally between the two side
gears. As a result, the pinion gears revolve with the
pinion mate shaft but do not rotate around it (Fig. 6).
When turning corners, the outside wheel must travel
a greater distance than the inside wheel. This difference
must be compensated for in order to prevent the wheels
from scuffing and skidding through the turn. To accom-
plish this, the differential allows the axle shafts to turn
at unequal speeds (Fig. 7). In this instance, the input
torque applied to the pinion gears is not divided
equally. The pinion gears now rotate around the pinion
mate shaft in opposite directions. This allows the side
gear and axle shaft attached to the outside wheel to ro-
tate at a faster speed.
Fig. 4 Model 30 Differential Cover
Fig. 5 Disconnect Feature
JFRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE 2 - 3