The Jeep Cherokee SJ Chief-17, produced from 1980 to 1983, represents a unique and relatively short-lived variant within the first generation (SJ) Cherokee lineup. Positioned as a more utilitarian and rugged offering, the Chief-17 distinguished itself with its two-door body style and a focus on off-road capability. It served as a direct descendant of the earlier CJ-series Jeeps, bridging the gap between those spartan models and the more comfortable, family-oriented Cherokee models. This particular version, equipped with the 5.9-liter V8 engine and a three-speed automatic transmission, offered a blend of power and convenience, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and relatively affordable four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Cherokee |
| Generation | Cherokee I (SJ) 3-door |
| Type | Chief-17 5.9 V8 (153 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 1980 |
| End of production | 1983 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 125 km/h (77.67 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.3 Hp/tonne |
| Power | 153 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 26 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | AMC N |
| Engine displacement | 5893 cm3 (359.61 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.63 mm (4.08 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87.38 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.25:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.2 l (13.95 US qt | 11.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2330 kg (5136.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 350 kg (771.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2693 l (95.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 150 kg (330.69 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 990 kg (2182.58 lbs.) |
| Length | 4750 mm (187.01 in.) |
| Width | 2000 mm (78.74 in.) |
| Height | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Front overhang | 820 mm (32.28 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1170 mm (46.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm (8.58 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Leaf spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Chief-17 was AMC’s 360 cubic inch (5.9-liter) V8 engine, designated the AMC N code. This engine, a staple of AMC vehicles for many years, was known for its robust construction and ample low-end torque. It utilized a cast iron block and cylinder heads, and employed a two-barrel carburetor for fuel delivery. The overhead valve (OHV) configuration, while not the most modern, was reliable and relatively simple to maintain. The 5.9L V8 produced 153 horsepower at 4200 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the chassis. Paired with this engine was a Chrysler-sourced A727 three-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was a durable unit, but its relatively wide gear ratios weren’t optimized for fuel economy. The drivetrain employed a part-time four-wheel-drive system, with the rear wheels driven primarily and the front wheels engaged via a transfer case when needed.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 5.9L V8 and the three-speed automatic resulted in a driving experience focused on usability and off-road prowess rather than outright speed. Acceleration was adequate, but not particularly brisk. The automatic transmission, while convenient, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. The wide gear ratios meant that the engine often operated at higher RPMs during highway cruising, contributing to a noticeable level of engine noise. However, the abundant low-end torque of the V8 made the Chief-17 a capable performer in off-road situations, providing ample power for climbing hills and navigating rough terrain. The relatively simple suspension, consisting of leaf springs at both the front and rear, provided a comfortable ride on paved roads, but could feel somewhat bouncy when unloaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Chief-17 was positioned as a relatively basic trim level within the Cherokee range. Standard equipment typically included a vinyl interior, basic instrumentation, and a heater. Air conditioning, power steering, and upgraded upholstery were often optional extras. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of off-road use. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly marked gauges and easy-to-use controls. The Chief-17 often featured a removable hardtop, adding to its versatility and open-air appeal.
Chassis & Braking
The Cherokee SJ chassis was a body-on-frame design, providing a robust and durable foundation. The front suspension utilized leaf springs, while the rear suspension also employed leaf springs. This setup was simple and effective, but not particularly sophisticated. The Chief-17 featured disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for most driving conditions, the braking system lacked the stopping power of more modern vehicles. The steering system was a recirculating ball type, providing a relatively direct feel but requiring a fair amount of effort at low speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chief-17 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While its off-road capability and V8 engine were praised, its fuel economy and relatively basic interior were often criticized. Compared to other Cherokee trims, such as the two-wheel-drive models with smaller engines, the Chief-17 offered significantly more power and off-road capability, but at the expense of fuel efficiency and refinement. Compared to the six-cylinder Cherokee models, the V8 provided a noticeable performance boost, but also increased the vehicle’s weight and complexity. The Chief-17 appealed to buyers who prioritized ruggedness and capability over comfort and fuel economy.
Legacy
The Jeep Cherokee SJ Chief-17, despite its short production run, has become a sought-after vehicle among Jeep enthusiasts. Its combination of classic Jeep styling, a powerful V8 engine, and a relatively affordable price point has made it a popular choice for restoration projects and off-road adventures. The AMC 360 V8 engine, while not known for its fuel efficiency, is generally considered to be a reliable and durable powerplant. Parts availability is generally good, thanks to the widespread use of AMC components in other vehicles. Today, well-maintained Chief-17s command a premium in the used car market, representing a piece of Jeep history and a testament to the enduring appeal of the classic Cherokee.
