air condition CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2004 Service Manual

WARNING: THE AIR BAG SYSTEM IS A SENSITIVE,
COMPLEX ELECTRO-MECHANICAL UNIT. BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO DIAGNOSE, REMOVE OR INSTALL
THE AIR BAG SYSTEM COMPONENTS YOU MUST
FIRST DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE. THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DIS-
CHARGE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG AND
POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY. THE FASTENERS,
SCREWS, AND BOLTS, ORIGINALLY USED FOR
THE AIR BAG COMPONENTS, HAVE SPECIAL
COATINGS AND ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED
FOR THE AIR BAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER
BE REPLACED WITH ANY SUBSTITUTES. ANYTIME
A NEW FASTENER IS NEEDED, REPLACE WITH
THE CORRECT FASTENERS PROVIDED IN THE
SERVICE PACKAGE OR FASTENERS LISTED IN
THE PARTS BOOKS.
WARNING: SAFETY GOGGLES SHOULD BE WORN
AT ALL TIMES WHEN WORKING ON STEERING
COLUMNS.
CAUTION: Disconnect negative (ground) cable from
the battery before servicing any column compo-
nent.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the pivot pins
to disassemble the tilting mechanism. Damage will
occur.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STEERING
COLUMN
For diagnosis of conditions relating to the steering
column (Refer to 19 - STEERING - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING) and (Refer to 19 - STEERING - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING).
REMOVAL
NOTE: Before proceeding, (Refer to 19 - STEERING/
COLUMN - WARNING).
(1) Make sure the front wheels of the vehicle are
in the STRAIGHT AHEAD position before beginning
the column removal procedure.
(2) Disconnect negative (ground) cable from the
battery and isolate cable from battery terminal.
(3) Remove the lower shroud (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/COLUMN/LOWER SHROUD - REMOV-
AL).
(4) Remove the traction off switch.
(5) Remove the upper shroud.
(6) Remove the cluster trim bezel (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/CLUSTER BEZEL -
REMOVAL).
(7) Remove the knee blocker (Refer to 23 - BODY/
INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN
OPENING COVER - REMOVAL).
(8) Remove the parking brake handle link.
(9) Remove the knee blocker reinforcement (Refer
to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/KNEE
BLOCKER - REMOVAL).
(10) Remove the airbag (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(11) Remove the steering wheel retaining nut.
(12) Remove the vibration damper weight.
(13) Remove the steering wheel (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/COLUMN/STEERING WHEEL -
REMOVAL). (Fig. 3)
(14) Disconnect the wiring harness connectors
from the clockspring, multi-function switch, halo
lamp, SKIM module, ignition switch and BTSI sole-
noid.
(15) Disconnect the shift cable at the lever. (Fig. 4)
(16) Remove the pinch side clip, then remove the
cable from the bracket on the column.
(17) Remove the pinch bolt coupling. (Fig. 5)
(18) Loosen the two lower mounting nuts.
(19) Remove the two upper mounting nuts
(20) Remove the steering column.
1 - CLOCKSPRING WIRING
2 - STEERING WHEEL
3 - UPPER SHROUD
4 - FIXED SHROUD
5 - SCREW
6 - STEERING COLUMN MOUNTING PLATE
7 - NUT
8 - DASH PANEL STEERING COLUMN MOUNTING BRACKET
9 - STUDS (4)
10 - STEERING COLUMN LOCKING PIN
11 - NUT/WASHER ASSEMBLY
12 - STEERING COLUMN ASSEMBLY
13 - LOWER SHROUD
14 - SCREWS
15 - STEERING WHEEL RETAINING NUT16 - STEERING WHEEL DAMPER
17 - CLOCKSPRING
18 - SCREW
19 - MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH
20 - PINCH BOLT
21 - STEERING COLUMN COUPLER
22 - PINCH BOLT RETAINING PIN
23 - DASH PANEL
24 - SILENCER SHELL
25 - INTERMEDIATE SHAFT SHIELD AND SEAL
26 - INTERMEDIATE SHAFT
27 - ROLL PIN
28 - POWER STEERING GEAR
29 - FRONT SUSPENSION CRADLE/CROSSMEMBER
19 - 12 COLUMNRS
COLUMN (Continued)

steering wheel onto the steering column shaft by
hand. Use care not to pinch any wiring.
NOTE: Before installing the damper on the steering
wheel, inspect the damper to ensure the rubber iso-
lator on the damper is not deteriorated or damaged.
If the damper is installed with a damaged isolator, a
buzz, squeak or rattle condition may develop.
(4) Install the steering wheel damper on the steer-
ing wheel (Fig. 36).
(5) Install the steering wheel retaining nut.
Tighten the steering wheel retaining nut to 61 N´m
(45 ft. lbs.) torque.(6) If the steering wheel is equipped with remote
radio controls, connect the wiring connector to the
clockspring (Fig. 36).
(7) Connect the airbag squib wiring connectors to
the airbag and the horn/speed control switch pigtail
connector to the clockspring (Fig. 35).
(8) Install the driver airbag in the steering wheel.
Install and tighten the airbag attaching bolts to 10
N´m (90 in. lbs.) torque.
(9) To properly connect the battery and test the
airbag system, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RE-
STRAINTS - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
RSCOLUMN19-25
STEERING WHEEL (Continued)

Misassembled synchronizer components also cause
shifting problems. Incorrectly installed synchronizer
sleeves, keys, balls, or springs can cause shift prob-
lems.
NOISY OPERATION
Transaxle noise is most often a result of worn or
damaged components. Chipped, broken gear or syn-
chronizer teeth, and brinnelled, spalled bearings all
cause noise.
Abnormal wear and damage to the internal compo-
nents is frequently the end result of insufficient
lubricant.
SLIPS OUT OF GEAR
Transaxle disengagement may be caused by mis-
aligned or damaged shift components, or worn teeth
on the drive gears or synchronizer components. Incor-
rect assembly also causes gear disengagement. Check
for missing snap rings.
LOW LUBRICANT LEVEL
Insufficient transaxle lubricant is usually the
result of leaks, or inaccurate fluid level check or refill
method. Leakage is evident by the presence of oil
around the leak point. If leakage is not evident, the
condition is probably the result of an underfill.
If air±powered lubrication equipment is used to fill
a transaxle, be sure the equipment is properly cali-
brated. Equipment out of calibration can lead to an
underfill condition.
CLUTCH PROBLEMS
Worn, damaged, or misaligned clutch components
can cause difficult shifting, gear clash, and noise.
A worn or damaged clutch disc, pressure plate, or
release bearing can cause hard shifting and gear
clash.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 2.4L GAS
(1) Raise hood.
(2) Disconnect gearshift cables from shift levers/
cover assembly (Fig. 10).
(3) Remove gearshift cable retaining clips from
mounting bracket (Fig. 10). Remove cables and
secure out of way.
(4) Remove three (3) right engine mount bracket-
to-transaxle bolts (Fig. 11).
(5) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(6) Remove front wheel/tires and halfshafts.
(7) Drain transaxle fluid into suitable container.
(8) Remove front harness retainer and secure har-
ness out of way.
Fig. 10 Gearshift Cables at Transaxle
1 - SELECTOR CABLE
2 - CABLE RETAINER
3 - CABLE RETAINER
4 - CROSSOVER CABLE
5 - MOUNT BRACKET
Fig. 11 Transaxle Right Mount and Bracket
1 - MOUNT BRACKET
2 - BOLT (3)
3 - MOUNT
4 - BOLT (1)
RST850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE21-31
T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE (Continued)

SYNCHRONIZER
DESCRIPTION
The T850 transaxle uses two styles of synchronizer
assemblies; a conventional single-cone style is used
for the 5th/Reverse and 3rd/4th applications (Fig.
277), and a dual-cone style for the 1st/2nd gear appli-
cation (Fig. 278).
DISASSEMBLY
Place synchronizer in a clean shop towel and wrap.
Press on inner hub. Carefully open up shop towel
and remove springs, balls, keys, hub, and sleeve.
CLEANING
CLEAN
Do not attempt to clean the blocking rings in sol-
vent. The friction material will become contaminated.
Place synchronizer components in a suitable holder
and clean with solvent. Air dry.
INSPECTION
INSPECT
Proper inspection of components involve:
²
Teeth, for wear, scuffed, nicked, burred, or broken
teeth
²Keys, for wear or distortion
²Balls and springs, for distortion, cracks, or wear
If any of these conditions exist in these compo-
nents, replace as necessary.
ASSEMBLY
(1) Position synchronizer hub onto work bench.
Hub is non-directional.
(2) Install springs into hub slot.
(3) Insert key into hub and spring.
(4) Apply petroleum jelly to the hole in the key.
Insert balls into each key.
(5) Slide sleeve over the hub and depress balls as
you carefully slip the sleeve into position.
Fig. 276 Shift Fork/Shaft Components
1 - 5/R FORK
2 - SHAFT/LINK ASSEMBLY
3 - LINK
4 - 3/4 FORK
5 - 1/2 FORK
Fig. 277 3/4-5/R Synchronizer Assembly
1 - SLEEVE
2 - HUB
3 - BLOCKER RING (2)
4 - SPRING (3)
5 - KEY (3)
6 - BALL (3)
21 - 114 T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLERS
SHIFT FORK AND SHAFT (Continued)

41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
DESCRIPTION........................117
OPERATION..........................119
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 41TE
TRANSAXLE GENERAL DIAGNOSIS......119
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TEST . . 119
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HYDRAULIC
PRESSURE TESTS...................120
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CLUTCH AIR
PRESSURE TESTS...................122
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TORQUE
CONVERTER HOUSING FLUID LEAKAGE . . 123
REMOVAL............................124
DISASSEMBLY........................125
ASSEMBLY...........................144
INSTALLATION........................166
SCHEMATICS AND DIAGRAMS
41TE TRANSAXLE HYDRAULIC
SCHEMATICS.......................169
SPECIFICATIONS - 41TE TRANSAXLE......181
SPECIAL TOOLS
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE.........183
ACCUMULATOR
DESCRIPTION........................188
OPERATION..........................189
AUTOSTICK SWITCH
DESCRIPTION........................189
OPERATION..........................189
DRIVING CLUTCHES
DESCRIPTION........................190
OPERATION..........................190
FINAL DRIVE
DISASSEMBLY........................190
ASSEMBLY...........................195
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT - DIFFERENTIAL BEARING
PRELOAD..........................199
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK . . . 201
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND
FILTER SERVICE.....................203
GEAR SHIFT CABLE
REMOVAL............................204
INSTALLATION........................205
ADJUSTMENTS
GEARSHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT.......206HOLDING CLUTCHES
DESCRIPTION........................207
OPERATION..........................207
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
DISASSEMBLY........................208
ASSEMBLY...........................216
OIL PUMP
DESCRIPTION........................230
OPERATION..........................230
DISASSEMBLY........................230
ASSEMBLY...........................232
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN
DESCRIPTION........................232
OPERATION..........................232
SEAL - OIL PUMP
REMOVAL............................232
INSTALLATION........................233
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID
DESCRIPTION........................233
OPERATION..........................233
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BRAKE/
TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
SOLENOID..........................235
REMOVAL............................235
INSTALLATION........................236
SOLENOID/PRESSURE SWITCH ASSY
DESCRIPTION........................237
OPERATION..........................237
REMOVAL............................238
INSTALLATION........................239
SPEED SENSOR - INPUT
DESCRIPTION........................239
OPERATION..........................240
REMOVAL............................240
INSTALLATION........................240
SPEED SENSOR - OUTPUT
DESCRIPTION........................241
OPERATION..........................241
REMOVAL............................241
INSTALLATION........................242
TORQUE CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION........................242
OPERATION..........................245
REMOVAL............................247
INSTALLATION........................247
TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
DESCRIPTION........................247
OPERATION..........................248
21 - 116 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS

If the tag is not legible or missing, the ªPKº num-
ber, which is stamped into the transaxle case behindthe transfer gear cover, can be referred to for identi-
fication. This number differs slightly in that it con-
tains the entire transaxle part number, rather than
the last three digits.
OPERATION
Transmission output is directed to an integral dif-
ferential by a transfer gear system in the following
input-to-output ratios:
First...............................2.84 : 1
Second.............................1.57 : 1
Third..............................1.00 : 1
Overdrive...........................0.69 : 1
Reverse............................2.21 : 1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 41TE TRANSAXLE
GENERAL DIAGNOSIS
NOTE: Before attempting any repair on a 41TE four-
speed automatic transaxle, check for diagnostic
trouble codes (DTC's) using the DRB scan tool.
Refer to the Transmission Diagnostic Procedures
Manual.
Transaxle malfunctions may be caused by these
general conditions:
²Poor engine performance
²Improper adjustments
²Hydraulic malfunctions
²Mechanical malfunctions
²Electronic malfunctions
Diagnosis of these problems should always begin
by checking the easily accessible variables: fluid level
and condition, gearshift cable adjustment. Then per-
form a road test to determine if the problem has been
corrected or that more diagnosis is necessary. If the
problem persists after the preliminary tests and cor-
rections are completed, hydraulic pressure checks
should be performed.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TEST
Prior to performing a road test, verify that the
fluid level, fluid condition, and linkage adjustment
have been approved.
During the road test, the transaxle should be oper-
ated in each position to check for slipping and any
variation in shifting.
If the vehicle operates properly at highway speeds,
but has poor acceleration, the converter stator over-
running clutch may be slipping. If acceleration is nor-
mal, but high throttle opening is needed to maintain
highway speeds, the converter stator clutch may
have seized. Both of these stator defects require
Fig. 2 Transaxle Identification Label
1 - IDENTIFICATION LABEL
Fig. 3 Identification Label Breakdown
1 - T=TRACEABILITY
2 - SUPPLIER CODE (PK=KOKOMO)
3 - COMPONENT CODE (TK=KOKOMO TRANSMISSION)
4 - BUILD DAY (344=DEC. 9)
5 - BUILD YEAR (9=1999)
6 - LINE/SHIFT CODE (3=3RD SHIFT)
7 - BUILD SEQUENCE NUMBER
8 - LAST THREE OF P/N
9 - NIK
10 - TRANSAXLE PART NUMBER
11 - P=PART NUMBER
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 119
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE (Continued)

(3) Select sensors.
(4) Read the transmission temperature value.
(5) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
fluid temperature chart (Fig. 210).
(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)
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.
Fig. 210 Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart
1 - MAX. LEVEL
2 - MIN. LEVEL
21 - 202 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FLUID (Continued)

40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DESCRIPTION .........................25
OPERATION ...........................27
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 4XTETRANSAXLE GENERAL DIAGNOSIS .......27
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TEST . . . 27
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HYDRAULIC PRESSURE TESTS ....................28
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CLUTCH AIR PRESSURE TESTS ....................30
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TORQUE CONVERTER HOUSING FLUID LEAKAGE . . . 31
REMOVAL .............................31
DISASSEMBLY .........................34
ASSEMBLY ............................51
INSTALLATION .........................73
SCHEMATICS AND DIAGRAMS 4XTE TRANSAXLE HYDRAULICSCHEMATICS ........................75
SPECIFICATIONS - 41TE TRANSAXLE .......87
SPECIAL TOOLS .......................89
ACCUMULATOR DESCRIPTION .........................94
OPERATION ...........................94
DRIVING CLUTCHES DESCRIPTION .........................95
OPERATION ...........................95
FINAL DRIVE DESCRIPTION .........................95
OPERATION ...........................96
DISASSEMBLY .........................96
ASSEMBLY ............................99
ADJUSTMENTS DIFFERENTIAL BEARING PRELOADMEASUREMENT AND ADJUSTMENT ......100
FLUID STANDARD PROCEDURE FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK . . . 102
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID ANDFILTER SERVICE .....................104
GEAR SHIFT CABLE REMOVAL ............................105
HOLDING CLUTCHES DESCRIPTION ........................106
OPERATION ..........................106
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY DISASSEMBLY ........................107
ASSEMBLY ...........................116 OIL PUMP
DESCRIPTION ........................131
OPERATION ..........................131
DISASSEMBLY ........................131
ASSEMBLY ...........................132
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN DESCRIPTION ........................132
OPERATION ..........................132
SEAL - OIL PUMP REMOVAL ............................133
INSTALLATION ........................133
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID DESCRIPTION ........................133
OPERATION ..........................134
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BRAKE/ TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
SOLENOID ..........................135
REMOVAL ............................135
INSTALLATION ........................136
SOLENOID/PRESSURE SWITCH ASSY DESCRIPTION ........................137
OPERATION ..........................137
REMOVAL ............................138
INSTALLATION ........................139
SPEED SENSOR - INPUT DESCRIPTION ........................140
OPERATION ..........................140
REMOVAL ............................141
INSTALLATION ........................141
SPEED SENSOR - OUTPUT DESCRIPTION ........................142
OPERATION ..........................142
REMOVAL ............................143
INSTALLATION ........................143
TORQUE CONVERTER DESCRIPTION ........................144
OPERATION ..........................148
REMOVAL ............................149
INSTALLATION ........................149
TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY DESCRIPTION ........................150
OPERATION ..........................150
TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR DESCRIPTION ........................150
OPERATION ..........................151
REMOVAL ............................151
INSTALLATION ........................152
VALVE BODY DESCRIPTION ........................152
21s - 24 40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS

OPERATION
Transmission output is directed to an integral dif-
ferential by a transfer gear system in the following
input-to-output ratios:
First ............................... 2.84 : 1
Second ............................. 1.57 : 1
Third .............................. 1.00 : 1
Overdrive ........................... 0.69 : 1
Reverse ............................ 2.21 : 1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 4XTE TRANSAXLE
GENERAL DIAGNOSIS
NOTE: Before attempting any repair on a 4XTE four-
speed automatic transaxle, check for diagnostic trou-
ble codes (DTC's) using the DRB scan tool. Refer to
the Transmission Diagnostic Procedures Manual.
Transaxle malfunctions may be caused by these
general conditions: ² Poor engine performance
² Improper adjustments
² Hydraulic malfunctions
² Mechanical malfunctions
² Electronic malfunctions
Diagnosis of these problems should always begin by
checking the easily accessible variables: fluid level and
condition, gearshift cable adjustment. Then perform a
road test to determine if the problem has been corrected
or that more diagnosis is necessary. If the problem per-
sists after the preliminary tests and corrections are com-
pleted, hydraulic pressure checks should be performed.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TEST
Prior to performing a road test, verify that the
fluid level, fluid condition, and linkage adjustment
have been approved. During the road test, the transaxle should be oper-
ated in each position to check for slipping and any
variation in shifting. If the vehicle operates properly at highway speeds,
but has poor acceleration, the converter stator over-
running clutch may be slipping. If acceleration is nor-
mal, but high throttle opening is needed to maintain
highway speeds, the converter stator clutch may
have seized. Both of these stator defects require
replacement of the torque converter and thorough
transaxle cleaning. Slipping clutches can be isolated by comparing the
ªElements in Useº chart with clutch operation
encountered on a road test. This chart identifies
which clutches are applied at each position of the
selector lever.
A slipping clutch may also set a DTC and can be deter-
mined by operating the transaxle in all selector positions.
ELEMENTS IN USE AT EACH POSITION OF SELECTOR LEVER
Shift Lever Position INPUT CLUTCHES HOLDING CLUTCHES
Underdrive Overdrive Reverse 2/4 Low/Reverse
P - PARK X
R - REVERSE X X N - NEUTRAL X
OD - OVERDRIVE
First X X
Second X X Direct X X
Overdrive X X
D - DRIVE*
First X X
Second X X Direct X X
L - LOW*
First X X
Second X X
Direct X X
* Vehicle upshift and downshift speeds are increased when in these selector positions.
RS 40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21s-27
40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE (Continued)

(3) Select sensors.
(4) Read the transmission temperature value.
(5) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
fluid temperature chart (Fig. 188). (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. Mopar tATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
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.
Fig. 188 Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart
1 - MAX. LEVEL 2 - MIN. LEVEL
RS
40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21s - 103
FLUID (Continued)