1987 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer Manual

The 1987 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer is a classic 4x4 SUV featuring a 2.5L inline-4 or optional 2.8L V6 engine, 4-wheel drive system with Command-Trac, 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, AM/FM stereo, and rugged off-road capabilities. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical details for this iconic vehicle.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Controls and Instrument Panel 3. 4WD System Operation 4. Routine Maintenance 5. Engine Specifications 6. Transmission and Drivetrain 7. Electrical System 8. Braking System 9. Suspension and Steering 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Warranty Information

Vehicle Specifications

Key features: 2-door SUV body style, 101.4-inch wheelbase, 4x4 drivetrain, manual transmission.

Specification	Details
Engine Options	2.5L I4 (150 CID) or 2.8L V6 (173 CID)
Transmission	5-speed manual (Aisin-Warner)
Transfer Case	Command-Trac part-time 4WD
Wheelbase	101.4 inches
Length	168.8 inches
Width	70.5 inches
Height	64.2 inches
Curb Weight	Approx. 3,100 lbs
Fuel Capacity	20.2 gallons
Towing Capacity	2,000 lbs (properly equipped)

Controls and Instrument Panel

Standard instrumentation includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

Ignition switch: Located on steering column
4WD selector: Floor-mounted lever for 2H/4H/N/4L
Headlight switch: Pull-out rotary control
Climate controls: Manual heating/ventilation system
Wiper controls: Multi-speed wipers with washer

WARNING! Always engage 4WD on slippery surfaces only; avoid dry pavement to prevent drivetrain damage.

4WD System Operation

Command-Trac system provides part-time four-wheel drive capability.

2H (2WD High): Normal driving on dry pavement
4H (4WD High): Slippery conditions at normal speeds
N (Neutral): Disengages drivetrain for towing
4L (4WD Low): Extreme off-road conditions, maximum torque

CAUTION! Shift between 2H and 4H while moving below 55 mph; come to complete stop for 4L engagement.

Routine Maintenance

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Engine Oil: 5W-30 (4 quarts with filter)
Coolant: Ethylene glycol, check every 12 months
Transmission Fluid: SAE 75W-90 GL-5
Transfer Case: SAE 10W-30 motor oil
Front/Rear Axle: SAE 80W-90 gear oil
Brake Fluid: DOT 3, check every 6 months
Air Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles
Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
Timing Belt: Inspect every 60,000 miles

Engine Specifications

2.5L AMC 150 inline-4 engine standard; 2.8L GM LR2 V6 optional.

Engine	2.5L I4	2.8L V6
Displacement	150 CID (2.5L)	173 CID (2.8L)
Bore x Stroke	3.875" x 3.187"	3.50" x 3.00"
Compression	9.2:1	8.5:1
Horsepower	117 hp @ 5000 rpm	115 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque	135 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm	150 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
Fuel System	Computer-controlled carburetor	2-barrel carburetor

Transmission and Drivetrain

Aisin-Warner 5-speed manual transmission with hydraulic clutch.

Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.93, 2nd: 2.33, 3rd: 1.45, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.85, Reverse: 4.74

Transfer Case: New Process 207, ratios: High 1.00:1, Low 2.61:1

Axle Ratios: Standard 3.55:1, optional 3.73:1 or 4.10:1 available

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 58-amp alternator.

Battery: Group 58, 12V 450 CCA
Alternator: 58-amp output
Starter: Gear reduction type
Fuses: 14-fuse block under dashboard
Bulbs: Headlights 6014, tail lights 1157

Tip: Check battery terminals for corrosion monthly; clean with baking soda solution.

Braking System

Front disc/rear drum brakes with power assist.

Master Cylinder: Dual-circuit design
Front Brakes: 10.9-inch discs
Rear Brakes: 10x2.5-inch drums
Parking Brake: Mechanical, rear wheels
Brake Pad Life: 25,000-35,000 miles typical

WARNING! Brake fluid absorbs moisture; replace every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Suspension and Steering

Front: Quadra-Link with coil springs. Rear: Leaf spring suspension.

Steering: Power-assisted recirculating ball, 17.5:1 ratio, 3.5 turns lock-to-lock.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel delivery/ignition	Check fuel pump, filter, spark plugs, ignition timing
4WD won't engage	Vacuum system/linkage	Inspect vacuum lines, shift linkage adjustment
Transmission noise	Low fluid/worn bearings	Check fluid level, inspect for leaks, bearing wear
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace front brake rotors
Overheating	Cooling system	Check thermostat, radiator, water pump, coolant level

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer memory.

Service: Consult authorized Jeep dealership for major repairs.

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain: 5 years/50,000 miles. Corrosion: 3 years/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Jeep dealership with proof of purchase and maintenance records. Keep all service receipts for warranty validation.