1987 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer Manual Transmission

The 1987 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer is a classic 4x4 SUV featuring a rugged 2.5L inline-4 engine paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, part-time four-wheel drive system with shift-on-the-fly capability, Dana axles, and legendary off-road performance. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical details.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Transmission Operation 3. 4WD System 4. Controls and Instrumentation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Specifications 7. Clutch System 8. Troubleshooting 9. Technical Data 10. Safety Information

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: 2.5L AMC 150 inline-4 engine, 4-speed manual transmission, part-time 4WD system, Dana 30 front axle, Dana 35 rear axle.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.5L AMC 150 inline-4, 105 hp @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	4-speed manual, floor-mounted shifter
Transfer Case	NP 207 part-time 4WD
Front Axle	Dana 30
Rear Axle	Dana 35
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.93, 2nd: 2.33, 3rd: 1.45, 4th: 1.00, Reverse: 4.74
Fuel System	Computer-controlled feedback carburetor
Wheelbase	101.4 inches
Curb Weight	Approximately 3,100 lbs
Towing Capacity	2,000 lbs

Transmission Operation

Proper shifting techniques and gear patterns for the 4-speed manual transmission.

Clutch operation: Press clutch pedal fully to floor before shifting gears.
Gear pattern: H-pattern with reverse in lower right position.
Shifting: Smooth, deliberate movements; avoid forcing gears.
Downshifting: Match engine RPM to road speed for smooth transitions.
Reverse gear: Come to complete stop before engaging; may require slight forward movement.

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shifter while driving; do not ride clutch pedal.

4WD System

Part-time four-wheel drive operation with NP 207 transfer case.

2WD mode: Normal driving on dry pavement.
4WD High: For slippery conditions; can be engaged at speeds under 55 mph.
4WD Low: For extreme off-road conditions; maximum torque multiplication.
Shifting procedure: Come to complete stop, shift transmission to neutral, then move transfer case lever.

CAUTION! Do not operate in 4WD on dry pavement; avoid sharp turns in 4WD mode.

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard layout and control functions.

Transmission Controls: Floor-mounted shifter, clutch pedal, transfer case lever.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure, 4WD indicator lights. Warning lights: Check engine, brake, battery. Gear indicator: No electronic display; refer to shift pattern on shift knob.

Maintenance Schedule

Routine maintenance intervals for manual transmission system.

Every 3,000 miles: Check transmission fluid level
Every 15,000 miles: Inspect clutch system components
Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid
Every 60,000 miles: Inspect/replace clutch components as needed
As needed: Adjust clutch pedal free play

Fluid Specifications

Recommended fluids and capacities.

Manual Transmission: 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil, 3.5 pints capacity
Transfer Case: Dexron II automatic transmission fluid, 2.5 pints
Engine Oil: 10W-30, 4 quarts with filter
Coolant: Ethylene glycol, 10 quarts
Brake Fluid: DOT 3

Tip: Use only specified fluids; improper fluids can damage components.

Clutch System

10.4-inch diaphragm spring clutch operation and maintenance.

Clutch pedal free play: 1-1.5 inches at pedal pad
Hydraulic system: Uses brake fluid reservoir; check for leaks
Adjustment: Via pushrod at clutch pedal
Wear indicators: Slipping in high gears, difficulty shifting, clutch chatter
Replacement: Requires transmission removal; professional recommended

WARNING! Do not drive with slipping clutch; can cause transmission damage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Difficulty shifting gears	Low fluid, worn clutch, linkage issues	Check fluid level; inspect clutch system; adjust linkage
Gear grinding	Clutch not disengaging fully	Adjust clutch pedal free play; check hydraulic system
Transmission noise	Low fluid, worn bearings	Check fluid level; inspect for bearing wear
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch disc, oil contamination	Inspect clutch components; check for leaks
4WD not engaging	Linkage adjustment, vacuum system	Adjust transfer case linkage; check vacuum lines

Service: Consult qualified Jeep technician for complex transmission issues.

Technical Data

Transmission Type: Aisin-Warner 4-speed manual
Clutch Type: 10.4-inch diaphragm spring
Synchronizers: All forward gears synchronized
Shift Linkage: Direct mechanical linkage
Fluid Capacity: 3.5 pints 75W-90 gear oil
Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches)
Fuel Capacity: 20 gallons

Safety Information

Always use seat belts. Keep hands away from moving shift linkage. Ensure parking brake is engaged when parked. Regular maintenance is essential for safe operation. Off-road driving requires special training and precautions.

CAUTION! Transmission components operate at high temperatures; allow cooling before servicing.