To build the first-generation SJ Cherokee, AMC more or less eliminated the Wagoneer’s C-pillar and rear doors, and extended the side glass in the rear cargo area. For its first two years, the only engine options in the Cherokee were a 258 cubic inch I6 and the stalwart 360 cubic inch V8. A 401 cubic inch option was added in 1976, and the following year, Cherokee buyers could also drive home a four-door model. Choosing the Chief trim from 1976 on gave buyers a wider track and wider fenders to fit oversized tires. A Golden Eagle Cherokee was issued in 1979, and a Golden Hawk edition in 1980.
They both included large bird decals on the hood, but the Golden Eagle also 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 transfer case was an option. In 1980, the 1339 was swapped out for a New Process 207 case, but the Quadra-Trac name and badge remained. The front and rear driveshafts could be locked with a vacuum switch in the cabin, but many owners have installed kits to convert Quadra-Trac Cherokees to part-time four-wheel drive. The gas-guzzling SJ didn’t last long enough to see fuel injection, although aftermarket kits are available from the likes of Holley and Howell to remedy this.
[Featured image by Mr.choppers via Wikimedia Commons|Cropped and scaled|CC-By 3.0]
