To construct the first-generation SJ Cherokee, AMC kind of eradicated the Wagoneer’s C-pillar and rear doorways, and prolonged the facet glass within the rear cargo space. For its first two years, the one engine choices within the Cherokee had been a 258 cubic inch I6 and the stalwart 360 cubic inch V8. A 401 cubic inch choice was added in 1976, and the next 12 months, Cherokee consumers may additionally drive dwelling a four-door mannequin. Choosing the Chief trim from 1976 on gave consumers a wider observe and wider fenders to suit outsized tires. A Golden Eagle Cherokee was issued in 1979, and a Golden Hawk version in 1980. 

They each included massive chicken decals on the hood, however the Golden Eagle additionally had the Chief’s wider axles plus denim upholstery. Through 1979, the full-time Quadra-Trac four-wheel drive system with a Borg-Warner 1339 limited-slip switch case was an choice. In 1980, the 1339 was swapped out for a New Process 207 case, however the Quadra-Trac identify and badge remained. The entrance and rear driveshafts may very well be locked with a vacuum swap within the cabin, however many house owners have put in kits to transform Quadra-Trac Cherokees to part-time four-wheel drive. The gas-guzzling SJ did not final lengthy sufficient to see gasoline injection, though aftermarket kits can be found from the likes of Holley and Howell to treatment this.

[Featured image by Mr.choppers via Wikimedia Commons|Cropped and scaled|CC-By 3.0]