The Jeep ERH or AMC 242 4.0-liter gasoline engine was produced from 1986 to 2006 and was installed in almost all brand SUVs, such as the Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. Until 1991, the engine was produced with the RENIX injection system, and then switched to its own from Mopar.
The AMC series also includes internal combustion engines: EPE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1986-2006 |
| Displacement, cc | 3964 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 175 – 195 |
| Torque output, Nm | 300 – 320 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R6 |
| Block head | cast iron 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 98.4 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86.7 |
| Compression ratio | 8.6 – 8.7 |
| Features | OHV |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Jeep Grand Cherokee 2000) — city — highway — combined |
19.0 11.5 15.2 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~450 000 |
| Weight, kg | 225 |
The engine was installed on:
- Jeep Cherokee 2 (XJ) in 1987 – 2001;
- Jeep Comanche 1 (MJ) in 1987 – 1992;
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 1 (ZJ) in 1992 – 1998, Grand Cherokee 2 (WJ) in 1998 – 2004;
- Jeep Wrangler 1 (YJ) in 1991 – 1995, Wrangler 2 (TJ) in 1996 – 2006.
Disadvantages of the ERH engine
- The engine has high reliability and resource, but fuel consumption is high;
- From 1999 to 2001 there was a cylinder head marriage, they cracked in the region of the 3rd or 4th cylinders;
- Many have encountered exhaust manifold cracks due to a sagging support;
- On long runs, the crankshaft rear oil seal often leaks, and its replacement is not cheap;
- The weak points of this motor also include the fuel pump and the electric fan relay.
Frequently asked questions about the Jeep ERH
How much power does the Jeep ERH make?
The Jeep ERH develops 175 - 195 hp and 300 - 320 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Jeep ERH take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Jeep ERH have a timing belt or chain?
The Jeep ERH uses a timing chain.
Is the Jeep ERH turbocharged?
No, the Jeep ERH is naturally aspirated.
Does the Jeep ERH need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Jeep ERH has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Jeep ERH last?
The typical lifespan of the Jeep ERH is ~450 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Jeep ERH?
Jeep Grand Cherokee 2000: city 19.0, highway 11.5, combined 15.2 L/100 km.
What cars was the Jeep ERH installed on?
Jeep Cherokee 2 (XJ) in 1987 - 2001; Jeep Comanche 1 (MJ) in 1987 - 1992; Jeep Grand Cherokee 1 (ZJ) in 1992 - 1998, Grand Cherokee 2 (WJ) in 1998 - 2004; Jeep Wrangler 1 (YJ) in 1991 - 1995, Wrangler 2 (TJ) in 1996 - 2006.
What are the common problems of the Jeep ERH?
The engine has high reliability and resource, but fuel consumption is high. From 1999 to 2001 there was a cylinder head marriage, they cracked in the region of the 3rd or 4th cylinders. All known problems.





