check transmission fluid CHRYSLER CARAVAN 2002 Owner's Guide

(6) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
indicator according to the chart.
(7) Check transmission for leaks.
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
FLUID CONDITION
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
and is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle recondition is proba-
bly required. Be sure to examine the fluid on the dip-
stick closely. If there is any doubt about its condition,
drain out a sample for a double check.
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid-
Type 9602) when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed
red so it can be identified from other fluids used in
the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red
color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid
condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin
to look darker in color and may eventually become
brown.This is normal.ATF+4 also has a unique
odor that may change with age. Consequently,odor
and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid
condition or the need for a fluid change.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
SERVICE
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules in
LUBRICATION and MAINTENANCE, or the vehicle
owner's manual, for the recommended maintenance
(fluid/filter change) intervals for this transaxle.
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparTATF+4
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 should
be used. A filter change should be made at the time
of the transmission oil change. The magnet (on the
inside of the oil pan) should also be cleaned with a
clean, dry cloth.NOTE: If the transaxle is disassembled for any rea-
son, the fluid and filter should be changed.
FLUID/FILTER SERVICE (RECOMMENDED)
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist. Refer to LUBRICA-
TION and MAINTENANCE for proper procedures.
Place a drain container with a large opening, under
transaxle oil pan.
(2) Loosen pan bolts and tap the pan at one corner
to break it loose allowing fluid to drain, then remove
the oil pan.
(3) Install a new filter and o-ring on bottom of the
valve body (Fig. 212).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new Mopar Silicone Adhesive sealant. Tighten
oil pan bolts to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).
(5) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 through the dipstick
opening.
(6) Start engine and allow to idle for at least one
minute. Then, with parking and service brakes
applied, move selector lever momentarily to each
position, ending in the park or neutral position.
Fig. 212 Filter and O-Ring
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
21 - 250 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FLUID (Continued)
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(7) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 213).
(8) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.). Refer
to Fluid Level and Condition Check for the proper
fluid fill procedure.
(9) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
DIPSTICK TUBE FLUID SUCTION METHOD
(ALTERNATIVE)
(1) When performing the fluid suction method,
make sure the transaxle is at full operating temper-
ature.
(2) To perform the dipstick tube fluid suction
method, use a suitable fluid suction device (VaculaŸ
or equivalent).
(3) Insert the fluid suction line into the dipstick
tube.
NOTE: Verify that the suction line is inserted to the
lowest point of the transaxle oil pan. This will
ensure complete evacuation of the fluid in the pan.
(4) Follow the manufacturers recommended proce-
dure and evacuate the fluid from the transaxle.
(5) Remove the suction line from the dipstick tube.
(6) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 through the dipstick
opening.
(7) Start engine and allow to idle for at least one
minute. Then, with parking and service brakes
applied, move selector lever momentarily to each
position, ending in the park or neutral position.(8) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 213).
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.).
(Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTO-
MATIC - 41TE/FLUID - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(10) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
GEAR SHIFT CABLE
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect battery cables.
(2) Remove battery shield.
(3) Remove battery.
(4) Remove speed control servo and position out of
way.
(5) Disconnect gear shift cable at manual valve
lever (Fig. 214).
(6) Disconnect gear shift cable from upper mount
bracket (Fig. 214).
Fig. 213 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
Fig. 214 Gearshift Cable at Transaxle - Typical
1 - MANUAL VALVE LEVER
2 - GEAR SHIFT CABLE
3 - UPPER MOUNT BRACKET
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 251
FLUID (Continued)
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(41) Install the overdrive shaft assembly (Fig.
290).
(42) Reinstall overdrive and reverse clutch as
shown.Rechecking these clutch clearances is
not necessary.
OIL PUMP
DESCRIPTION
The oil pump is located in the pump housing inside
the bell housing of the transaxle case (Fig. 291). The
oil pump consists of an inner and outer gear, a hous-
ing, and a cover that also serves as the reaction shaft
support.
OPERATION
As the torque converter rotates, the converter hub
rotates the inner and outer gears. As the gears
rotate, the clearance between the gear teeth
increases in the crescent area, and creates a suction
at the inlet side of the pump. This suction draws
fluid through the pump inlet from the oil pan. As the
clearance between the gear teeth in the crescent area
decreases, it forces pressurized fluid into the pump
outlet and to the valve body.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OIL PUMP VOLUME
CHECK
Measuring oil pump output volume will determine
if sufficient flow to the transmission oil cooler exists,
and whether or not an internal transmission failure
is present.
Verify that transmission fluid is at the proper
level. If adding fluid is necessary, fill to the properlevel with MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission
Fluid±Type 9602). The following procedure is to
check oil pump output volume:
(1) Using hose cutters or a suitable blade, cut the
ªto coolerº (Fig. 292) line off flush with the cooler
inlet fitting and place a collection container under
the open line.
Fig. 290 Install Overdrive Shaft Assembly
1 - OVERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
2 - #3 THRUST PLATE
3 - #3 THRUST WASHER
Fig. 291 Oil Pump Assembly
1 - PUMP HOUSING
2 - OUTER PUMP GEAR
3 - INNER PUMP GEAR
4 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
5 - SEAL RINGS (4)
6 - REACTION SHAFT
7 - CRESCENT
Fig. 292 Transaxle Oil Cooler Fittings
1 - FROM COOLER
2 - TO COOLER
21 - 272 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY (Continued)
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CAUTION: With the fluid set at the proper level,
fluid collection should not exceed (1) quart or inter-
nal damage to the transmission may occur.
(2) Start engine and runat curb idle speed, with
the shift selector in neutral.
(3) If one quart of ATF is collected in 20 seconds or
less, flow is within acceptable limits. If fluid flow is
intermittent or it takes more than 20 seconds to col-
lect one quart of ATF, (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 41TE -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
(4) Inspect the cooler hose for damage. Replace if
necessary.
(5) Re-connect the to cooler line to the transmis-
sion using a service splice kit. Refer to instructions
inclued with the kit.
(6) Refill the transaxle to proper level with
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid±Type
9602).
DISASSEMBLY
When disassembling the transaxle it is necessary
to inspect the oil pump for wear and damage.
(1) Remove the reaction shaft support bolts.
(2) Remove reaction shaft support from pump
housing (Fig. 293).
(3) Remove the pump gears (Fig. 294) and check
for wear and damage on pump housing and gears.
(4) Re-install the gears and check clearances.
(5) Measure the clearance between the outer gear
and the pump pocket (Fig. 295). Clearance should be
0.089±0.202 mm (0.0035-0.0079 in.).(6) Measure clearance between outer gear and
crescent. Clearance should be 0.060-0.298 mm
(0.0023-0.0117 in.).
(7) Measure clearance between inner gear and
crescent. Clearance should be 0.093-0.385 mm
(0.0036-0.0151 in.).
Fig. 293 Reaction Shaft Support
1 - PUMP HOUSING
2 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
3 - PUMP GEARS
Fig. 294 Oil Pump Assembly
1 - PUMP HOUSING
2 - OUTER PUMP GEAR
3 - INNER PUMP GEAR
4 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
5 - SEAL RINGS (4)
6 - REACTION SHAFT
7 - CRESCENT
Fig. 295 Measure Outer Gear to Pocket
1 - OUTER GEAR
2 - POCKET
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 273
OIL PUMP (Continued)
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clutch is engaged by the clutch solenoid on the valve
body. The clutch will engage at approximately 56
km/h (35 mph) with light throttle, after the shift to
third gear.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove transmission and torque converter
from vehicle. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANS-
AXLE/AUTOMATIC - 41TE - REMOVAL)
(2) Place a suitable drain pan under the converter
housing end of the transmission.
CAUTION: Verify that transmission is secure on the
lifting device or work surface, the center of gravity
of the transmission will shift when the torque con-
verter is removed creating an unstable condition.
The torque converter is a heavy unit. Use caution
when separating the torque converter from the
transmission.
(3) Pull the torque converter forward until the cen-
ter hub clears the oil pump seal.
(4) Separate the torque converter from the trans-
mission.
INSTALLATION
Check converter hub and drive notches for sharp
edges, burrs, scratches, or nicks. Polish the hub and
notches with 320/400 grit paper or crocus cloth if nec-
essary. The hub must be smooth to avoid damaging
the pump seal at installation.
(1) Lubricate converter hub and oil pump seal lip
with transmission fluid.(2) Place torque converter in position on transmis-
sion.
CAUTION: Do not damage oil pump seal or bushing
while inserting torque converter into the front of the
transmission.
(3) Align torque converter to oil pump seal open-
ing.
(4) Insert torque converter hub into oil pump.
(5) While pushing torque converter inward, rotate
converter until converter is fully seated in the oil
pump gears.
(6) Check converter seating with a scale and
straightedge (Fig. 335). Surface of converter lugs
should be 1/2 in. to rear of straightedge when con-
verter is fully seated.
(7) If necessary, temporarily secure converter with
C-clamp attached to the converter housing.
(8) Install the transmission in the vehicle. (Refer
to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC
- 41TE - INSTALLATION)
(9) Fill the transmission with the recommended
fluid. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/
AUTOMATIC - 41TE/FLUID - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE)
Fig. 334 Stator Operation
1 - DIRECTION STATOR WILL FREE WHEEL DUE TO OIL
PUSHING ON BACKSIDE OF VANES
2 - FRONT OF ENGINE
3 - INCREASED ANGLE AS OIL STRIKES VANES
4 - DIRECTION STATOR IS LOCKED UP DUE TO OIL PUSHING
AGAINST STATOR VANES
Fig. 335 Checking Torque Converter Seating
1 - SCALE
2 - STRAIGHTEDGE
21 - 290 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
TORQUE CONVERTER (Continued)
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is requested when the TCM pulses this signal to
ground. The PCM recognizes this request and
responds by retarding ignition timing, killing fuel
injectors, etc. The PCM sends a confirmation of the
request to the TCM via the communication bus.
Torque reduction is not noticable by the driver, and
usually lasts for a very short period of time.
If the confirmation signal is not received by the
TCM after two sequential request messages, a diag-
nostic trouble code will be set.
VALVE BODY
DESCRIPTION
The valve body assembly consists of a cast alumi-
num valve body, a separator plate, and transfer
plate. The valve body contains valves and check balls
that control fluid delivery to the torque converter
clutch, solenoid/pressure switch assembly, and fric-
tional clutches. The valve body contains the following
components (Fig. 340):
²Regulator valve
²Solenoid switch valve
²Manual valve²Converter clutch switch valve
²Converter clutch control valve
²Torque converter regulator valve
²Low/Reverse switch valve
In addition, the valve body also contains the ther-
mal valve, #2,3&4 check balls, the #5 (overdrive)
check valve and the 2/4 accumulator assembly. (Refer
to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC
- 41TE/VALVE BODY - DISASSEMBLY)
OPERATION
NOTE: Refer to the Hydraulic Schematics for a
visual aid in determining valve location, operation
and design.
REGULATOR VALVE
The regulator valve controls hydraulic pressure in
the transaxle. It receives unregulated pressure from
the pump, which works against spring tension to
maintain oil at specific pressures. A system of sleeves
and ports allows the regulator valve to work at one of
three predetermined pressure levels. Regulated oil
pressure is also referred to as ªline pressure.º
Fig. 340 Valve Body Assembly
1 - VALVE BODY 5 - MANUAL VALVE
2 - T/C REGULATOR VALVE 6 - CONVERTER CLUTCH SWITCH VALVE
3 - L/R SWITCH VALVE 7 - SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE
4 - CONVERTER CLUTCH CONTROL VALVE 8 - REGULATOR VALVE
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 293
TRD LINK (Continued)
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SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE
The solenoid switch valve controls line pressure
from the LR/CC solenoid. In one position, it allows
the low/reverse clutch to be pressurized. In the other,
it directs line pressure to the converter control and
converter clutch valves.
MANUAL VALVE
The manual valve is operated by the mechanical
shift linkage. Its primary responsibility is to send
line pressure to the appropriate hydraulic circuits
and solenoids. The valve has three operating ranges
or positions.
CONVERTER CLUTCH SWITCH VALVE
The main responsibility of the converter clutch switch
valve is to control hydraulic pressure applied to the front
(off) side of the converter clutch piston. Line pressure
from the regulator valve is fed to the torque converter
regulator valve, where it passes through the valve, and is
slightly regulated. The pressure is then directed to the
converter clutch switch valve and to the front side of the
converter clutch piston. This pressure pushes the piston
back and disengages the converter clutch.
CONVERTER CLUTCH CONTROL VALVE
The converter clutch control valve controls the
back (on) side of the torque converter clutch. When
the TCM energizes or modulates the LR/CC solenoid
to apply the converter clutch piston, both the con-
verter clutch control valve and the converter control
valve move, allowing pressure to be applied to the
back side of the clutch.
T/C REGULATOR VALVE
The torque converter regulator valve slightly regu-
lates the flow of fluid to the torque converter.
LOW/REVERSE SWITCH VALVE
The low/reverse clutch is applied from different
sources, depending on whether low (1st) gear or
reverse is selected. The low/reverse switch valve
alternates positions depending on from which direc-
tion fluid pressure is applied. By design, when the
valve is shifted by fluid pressure from one channel,
the opposing channel is blocked. The switch valve
alienates the possibility of a sticking ball check, thus
providing consistent application of the low/reverse
clutch under all operating conditions.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL
NOTE: If valve body is replaced or reconditioned,
the TCM Quick Learn Procedure must be per-formed. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC
CONTROL MODULES/TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(1) Disconnect battery negative cable.
(2) Disconnect gearshift cable from manual valve
lever.
(3) Remove manual valve lever from manual shaft.
(4) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(5) Remove oil pan bolts (Fig. 341).
(6) Remove oil pan (Fig. 342).
Fig. 341 Oil Pan Bolts
1 - OIL PAN BOLTS (USE RTV UNDER BOLT HEADS)
Fig. 342 Oil Pan
1 - OIL PAN
2 - 1/8 INCH BEAD OF RTV SEALANT
3 - OIL FILTER
21 - 294 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
VALVE BODY (Continued)
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(19) Install battery thermal shield and clutch cable
eyelet (Fig. 91).(20) Connect battery cables.
(21) Check transaxle fluid and engine coolant lev-
els. Adjust if necessary. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/MANUAL/FLUID - STANDARD
PROCEDURE)
SPECIFICATIONS - T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Transaxle TypeConstant-mesh, fully synchronized 5-speed with integral
differential
Lubrication MethodSplash oil collected in case passage and oil trough and
distributed to mainshafts via gravity
Fluid Type ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission FluidÐType 9602)
GEAR RATIOS
GEAR RATIO (2.4L Gas) RATIO (2.5L TD)
1st 3.65 3.46
2nd 2.07 2.05
3rd 1.39 1.37
4th 1.03 0.97
5th 0.83 0.76
Reverse 3.47 3.47
Final Drive Ratio 3.77 3.53
Overall Top Gear 3.12 2.66
Fig. 91 Battery Thermal Shield
1 - BATTERY THERMAL SHIELD
RST850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE21 - 343
T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE (Continued)
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AXLE SEALS
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(2) Remove one or both front halfshaft assemblies.
(Refer to 3 - DIFFERENTIAL & DRIVELINE/HALF
SHAFT - REMOVAL)
(3) Using a suitable screwdriver, remove one or
both axle seals (Fig. 92).
INSTALLATION
(1) Using driver handle C-4171 and installer 8476,
install axle seals into position (Fig. 93) (Fig. 94).
(2) Install one or both front halfshaft assemblies.
(Refer to 3 - DIFFERENTIAL & DRIVELINE/HALF
SHAFT - INSTALLATION)
(3) Check transaxle fluid level and adjust if neces-
sary. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/
MANUAL/FLUID - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(4) Lower vehicle.
Fig. 92 Axle Seal Removal (Extension Housing Side
Shown)
1 - SCREWDRIVER
2 - AXLE SEAL
3 - EXTENSION HOUSING
Fig. 93 Axle Seal InstallationÐTypical
1 - SEAL
2 - INSTALLER 8476
3 - DRIVER HANDLE C-4171
Fig. 94 Axle Seal Installation (Extension Housing
Side)
1 - EXTENSION HOUSING
2 - SEAL
3 - INSTALLER 8476
4 - DRIVER HANDLE C-4171
21 - 348 T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLERS
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ADJUSTMENT - DIFFERENTIAL SIDE GEAR
END PLAY
Measure side gear end play: Insert feeler gauges
180É apart between differential side gear and thrust
washer as shown in (Fig. 124). Measurement taken
here applies to both sides. Side gear end play should
be between 0.025-0.152 mm (0.001-0.006 in.). If clear-
ance is greater than 0.152 mm (0.006 in.), install a
thicker thrust washer (both sides). If clearance is less
than 0.025 mm (0.001), install a thinner thrust
washer (both sides). Refer to (Fig. 125) for available
side gear shim thicknesses.
If end play measurement indicates a thrust washer
change is necessary, the differential must be disas-
sembled. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANS-
AXLE/MANUAL/DIFFERENTIAL - DISASSEMBLY)
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL
CHECK
NOTE: For proper fluid level check intervals, (Refer
to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION)
The fluid required in this transaxle is Mopart
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission FluidÐType 9602).
Use of substitute fluids may result in improper
transaxle operation and/or failure.
(1) Raise vehicle on hoist.(2) Remove transaxle fill plug (Fig. 126).
(3) Inspect fluid level. Fluid should be within 1/8º
below fill hole. Add MopartATF+4 (Automatic Trans-
mission FluidÐType 9602) as neccessary.
(4) Install fill plug, ensuring it is properly seated.
(5) Lower vehicle.
Fig. 124 Side Gear End Play Measurement
1 - FEELER GAUGE
Fig. 125 Available Side Gear Thrust Washers
1 - (PLAIN) 0.79-0.84 mm (0.031-0.033 in.)
2 - ( TRIANGLE) 0.91-0.97 mm (0.036-0.038 in.)
3 - (SQUARE) 1.04-1.10 mm (0.041-0.043 in.)
4 - (DIAMOND) 1.17-1.22 mm (0.046-0.048 in.)
Fig. 126 Transaxle Fill Plug
1 - FILL PLUG
2 - END COVER
21 - 358 T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLERS
DIFFERENTIAL (Continued)
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