Clutch Replacement

THESE PROCEDURES WORKED FOR ME. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.

During my last wheeling trip the throw-out bearing on the Cherokee started to squeal like a loose fan belt. I limped home pulled out the Field Service Manual and started the disassembly. What follows is a near step-by-step account of what to do and what to look out for.

My Specs:
’97 Cherokee SE w/110,000 Miles, 4.0L, AX-15 Transmission, 231J Transfer case.
With 6” lift and 33’s I was able to do all the work without lifting the Cherokee off the ground. Your set-up may require you to raise the vehicle.

Bought:
Clutch Kit (Clutch, Pressure Plate, Throw-Out Bearing, Pilot Bearing), from AutoZone; $140
Transmission Adapter Seal (which was leaking), from Dealership; $17
2 Bolts, from Ace Hardware; $2
2 Cans of Brake Cleaner, from Checkers; $4
180 Grit Emory Cloth, from Sears; $3
Total Cost (after tax): ~$170

There are more comments associated with each picture so click on the pic to get the full description of what’s happening.

STEP 1: Shift transmission into 1st or 3rd and transfer case into neutral.
STEP 2: Drain transmission fluid (if separating transmission and transfer case).