← Tech

2.5 L AMC (150)

The base four-cylinder: slow but everlasting

The base engine of the Cherokee XJ was the 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Aimed at buyers who wanted economy and price over power, it's simple, rugged and just as indestructible as its bigger brother. It isn't fast, but it rarely leaves you stranded.

Basically half a 4.0

Conceptually, the 2.5 is the 4.0 inline-six with two cylinders removed: same iron block and head, same pushrod overhead valves (OHV), same low-end-torque, easy-maintenance philosophy. Displacement: 2,464 cc (150 cu in).

That family tie explains its reputation: it shares the 4.0's toughness. What it doesn't share is the shove — with four cylinders and ~2.5 liters, you have to work it, especially loaded up or on the highway.

From carburetor to injection

Like the 4.0, it evolved: it started with a carburetor (1984–1985), moved to single-body Renix throttle-body injection (TBI) in 1986 and ended with Chrysler multi-point injection from 1991. Power followed that path, from around 105 hp early on to 130 hp in the last versions.

It was also used in the Wrangler and the Comanche pickup, which made it a very familiar engine, with parts everywhere and no secrets for any mechanic.

Specifications