check engine DODGE NEON 1999 Service Repair Manual

ROAD TEST
Prior to performing a road test, check the fluid
level and control cable adjustments.
During the road test, the transaxle should be oper-
ated in each position to check for slipping and any
variation in shifting.
If vehicle operates at high speeds, but has poor
acceleration, the converter's overrunning clutch may
be slipping. If acceleration is normal, but high throt-
tle opening is needed for high speeds, the stator
clutch may have seized.
Observe closely for slipping or engine speed flare-
up. Slipping or flare-up in any gear usually indicates
clutch, band, or overrunning clutch problems. If the
condition is far advanced, an overhaul will probably
be necessary to restore normal operation.
In most cases, the clutch or band that is slipping
can be determined by noting the transaxle operation
in all selector positions and then comparing which
internal units are applied in those positions. The
Elements±in±Use Chart provides a basis for road test
analysis.
The rear clutch is applied in both the D first gear
and 1 first gear positions. Also, the overrunning
clutch is applied in D first gear and the low/reverse
band is applied in 1 first gear position. If the tran-
saxle slips in D range first gear, but does not slip in
1 first gear, the overrunning clutch is slipping. Simi-
larly, if the transaxle slips in any two forward gears,
the rear clutch is slipping.
Using the same procedure, the rear clutch and
front clutch are applied in D third gear. If the tran-
saxle slips in third gear, either the front clutch or the
rear clutch is slipping. By selecting another gear that
does not use one of those units, the unit that is slip-
ping can be determined. If the transaxle also slips in
reverse, the front clutch is slipping. If the transaxle
does not slip in reverse, the rear clutch is slipping.The process of elimination can be used to detect
any unit that slips and to confirm proper operation of
good units. Road testing can usually diagnose slip-
ping units, although the actual cause of the problem
may not be detected. Practically any condition can be
caused by leaking hydraulic circuits or sticking
valves.
Therefore, unless the condition is obvious, the tran-
saxle should never be disassembled until hydraulic
pressure tests have been performed.
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE TESTS
Pressure testing is a very important step in the
diagnostic procedure. These tests usually reveal the
cause of most transaxle problems.
Before performing pressure tests, check fluid level
and condition, as well as control cable adjustments.
Fluid must be at operating temperature (150 to 200
degrees F.).
Install an engine tachometer. Raise vehicle on a
hoist that allows front wheels to turn, and position
tachometer so it can be read.
Disconnect throttle cable and shift cable from tran-
saxle levers so they can be controlled from outside
the vehicle.
Attach 150 psi gauges to ports required for test
being conducted. A 300 psi gauge (C-3293) is required
for reverse pressure test at rear servo.
Test port locations are shown in (Fig. 3).
TEST ONE (SELECTOR IN 1)
(1) Attach gauges to line and low-reverse ports.
(2) Operate engine at 1000 rpm for test.
(3) Move selector lever on transaxle all the way
rearward (1 position).
(4) Read pressures on both gauges as throttle lever
on transaxle is moved from full clockwise position to
full counterclockwise position.
ELEMENTS IN USE AT EACH POSITION OF THE SELECTOR LEVER
21 - 52 TRANSAXLEPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

(3) Move selector lever on transaxle two detents
forward from full rearward position. This is selector
D position.
(4) Read pressures on both gauges as throttle lever
on transaxle is moved from full clockwise to the full
counterclockwise position.
(5) Line pressure should read 52 to 58 psi with
throttle lever clockwise. Pressure should gradually
increase to 80 to 88 psi. as lever is moved counter-
clockwise.
(6) Kickdown release is pressurized only in direct
drive and should be same as line pressure within 3
psi, up to kickdown point.
(7) This tests pump output, pressure regulation,
and condition of rear clutch, front clutch, and
hydraulic circuits.
TEST FOUR (SELECTOR IN REVERSE)
(1) Attach 300 psi gauge to low-reverse port.
(2) Operate engine at 1600 rpm for test.
(3) Move selector lever on transaxle four detents
forward from full rearward position. This is selector
R position.
(4) Low/reverse pressure should read 180 to 220
psi with throttle lever clockwise. Pressure should
gradually increase to 260 to 300 psi. as lever is
moved counterclockwise.
(5) This tests pump output, pressure regulation,
and condition of front clutch and rear servo hydraulic
circuits.
(6) Move selector lever on transaxle to D position
to check that low/reverse pressure drops to zero.
(7) This tests for leakage into rear servo, due to
case porosity, which can cause reverse band burn out.
TEST RESULT INDICATIONS
(1) If proper line pressure, minimum to maximum,
is found in any one test, the pump and pressure reg-
ulator are working properly.
(2) Low pressure in D, 1, and 2 but correct pres-
sure in R, indicates rear clutch circuit leakage.
(3) Low pressure in D and R, but correct pressure
in 1 indicates front clutch circuit leakage.
(4) Low pressure in R and 1, but correct pressure
in 2 indicates rear servo circuit leakage.
(5) Low line pressure in all positions indicates a
defective pump, a clogged filter, or a stuck pressure
regulator valve.
GOVERNOR PRESSURE
Test only if transaxle shifts at wrong vehicle
speeds when throttle cable is correctly adjusted.
(1) Connect a 0-150 psi pressure gauge to governor
pressure take-off point. It is located at lower right
side of case, below differential cover.
(2) Operate transaxle in third gear to read pres-
sures. The governor pressure should respondsmoothly to changes in mph and should return to 0
to 3 psi when vehicle is stopped. High pressure
(above 3 psi) at standstill will prevent the transaxle
from downshifting.
THROTTLE PRESSURE
No gauge port is provided for throttle pressure.
Incorrect throttle pressure should be suspected if
part throttle upshift speeds are either delayed or
occur too early in relation to vehicle speed. Engine
runaway on shifts can also be an indicator of low
throttle pressure setting, or misadjusted throttle
cable.
In no case should throttle pressure be adjusted
until the transaxle throttle cable adjustment has
been verified to be correct.
CLUTCH AND SERVO AIR PRESSURE TESTS
A no±drive condition might exist even with correct
fluid pressure, because of inoperative clutches or
bands. The inoperative units, clutches, bands, and
servos can be located through a series of tests. This
is done by substituting air pressure for fluid pressure
(Fig. 5).
The front and rear clutches, kickdown servo, and
low/reverse servo can be tested by applying air pres-
sure to their respective passages. To make air pres-
sure tests, proceed as follows:
NOTE: Compressed air supply must be free of all
dirt and moisture. Use a pressure of 30 psi.
Remove oil pan and valve body. Refer to Valve
Body for removal procedure.
FRONT CLUTCH
Apply air pressure to front clutch apply passage
and listen for a dull thud, which indicates that front
clutch is operating. Hold air pressure on for a few
seconds and inspect system for excessive oil leaks.
REAR CLUTCH
Apply air pressure to rear clutch apply passage
and listen for a dull thud, which indicates that rear
clutch is operating. Also, inspect for excessive oil
leaks. If a dull thud cannot be heard in the clutches,
place finger tips on clutch housing and again apply
air pressure. Movement of piston can be felt as the
clutch is applied.
KICKDOWN SERVO (FRONT)
Direct air pressure into KICKDOWN SERVO ON
passage. Operation of servo is indicated by a tighten-
ing of front band. Spring tension on servo piston
should release the band.
21 - 54 TRANSAXLEPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

LOW AND REVERSE SERVO (REAR)
Direct air pressure into LOW/REVERSE SERVO
APPLY passage. Operation of servo is indicated by a
tightening of rear band. Spring tension on servo pis-
ton should release the band.
If clutches and servos operate properly, no upshift
indicates that a malfunction exists in the valve body.
FLUID LEAKAGE-TRANSAXLE TORQUE
CONVERTER HOUSING AREA
(1) Check for source of leakage.
(2) Since fluid leakage near the torque converter
area may be from an engine oil leak, the area should
be checked closely. Factory fill fluid is dyed red and,
therefore, can be distinguished from engine oil.
(3) Prior to removing the transaxle, perform the
following checks:
(4) When leakage is determined to originate from
the transaxle, check fluid level prior to removal of
the transaxle and torque converter.
(5) High oil level can result in oil leakage out the
vent in the dipstick. If the fluid level is high, adjust
to proper level.
(6) After performing this operation, inspect for
leakage. If a leak persists, perform the followingoperation on the vehicle. This will determine if the
torque converter or transaxle is leaking.
TORQUE CONVERTER LEAKAGE
Possible sources of torque converter leakage are:
²Torque converter weld leaks at the outside diam-
eter (peripheral) weld
²Torque converter hub weld
²Torque converter impeller shell cracked adjacent
to hub
²At drive lug welds
NOTE: Hub weld is inside and not visible. Do not
attempt to repair. Replace torque converter.
INTERLOCK SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK
(1) Place shifter in PARK, the ignition switch
should rotate freely from OFF to LOCK position.
When the shifter is moved to the DRIVE position,
the ignition switch should not rotate from OFF to
LOCK.
(2) Moving shifter out of PARK should be possible
only when ignition switch is in the OFF or the RUN
position. Movement of the shifter from the PARK
Fig. 5 Air Pressure Tests
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 55
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

position should not be possible when the ignition
switch is in the LOCK or the ACCESSORY position.
(3) If the interlock system, operates in any way
other than as described above, repair of the interlock
system is required. See Adjustment and Repair pro-
cedures in this section for the required procedures.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
FLUID AND FILTER CHANGE
When the factory fill fluid is changed, only fluids
labeled MOPARtATF PLUS 3 (Automatic Transmis-
sion fluid) Type 7176 should be used.
If the transaxle is disassembled for any reason, the
fluid and filter should be changed.
30,000 MILE TRANSAXLE OIL CHANGE
When a vehicle attains 30,000 miles on its odome-
ter it is recommended that the transaxle oil be
changed. To change the oil, use the procedure that
follows:
It is recommended that a transaxle fluid exchanger
(ATF 2000+ or equivalent) be used to replace the
used fluid in the transaxle. If a fluid exchanger is not
available use a fluid suction pump (Vaculayor equiv-
alent) to draw the fluid out of the dipstick tube. If a
fluid suction pump is not available remove the oil
pan and drain the fluid.
CAUTION: Chrysler Corporation does not recom-
mend using any fluid exchanger that introduces
additives into the transaxle.
TRANSAXLE FLUID EXCHANGER METHOD
(1) To perform the transaxle fluid exchange, the
transaxle must be at operating temperature. Drive
the vehicle till it reaches full operating temperature.
(2) Verify that the fill tank on the transaxle fluid
exchanger (ATF 2000+ or equivalent) is clean and
dry.
(3) Fill the tank to the recommended fill capacity
with Mopar ATF Plus 3 Type 7176.
(4) Hookup the vehicle to the machine following
the manufacturers instructions. Perform the
exchange procedure following the instructions pro-
vided with the machine.
(5) Once machine has completed the fluid
exchange. Check the fluid level and condition and fill
to proper level with Mopar ATF Plus 3 Type 7176.
NOTE: Verify that the transaxle cooler lines are
tightened to proper specifications. Cooler line
torque specification is 2 N²m (18 in. lbs.).DIPSTICK TUBE FLUID SUCTION METHOD
(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 (Vaculay
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) Add 4 Quarts of Mopar ATF Plus 3 Type 7176
transaxle fluid.
(7) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(8) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is at
normal operating temperature. The level should be in
the HOT range.
TRANSAXLE OIL PAN DROP METHOD
This procedure involves removing the transaxle oil
pan to drain the transaxle fluid.
(1) Bring the vehicle up to normal operating tem-
perature. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10 miles.
(2) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(3) Loosen the transaxle oil pan and drain the
fluid into a suitable container.
(4) Remove the pan and clean all sealant from the
pan and transaxle mating surfaces. Clean the mag-
net and the inside of the pan.
(5) Apply a 1/8 inch bead of Mopar RTV Sealant to
the mounting flange of the transaxle oil pan. Apply
RTV Sealant to the underside of the attaching bolts.
Attach the oil pan to the transaxle. Tighten the bolts
to 19 N²m (165 in. lbs.).
(6) Lower the vehicle and add 4 Quarts of Mopar
ATF Plus 3 Type 7176 transaxle fluid.
(7) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(8) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
21 - 56 TRANSAXLEPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is at
normal operating temperature. The level should be in
the HOT range. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10
miles.
(10) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(11) Check for leaks around the transaxle oil pan
sealing surfaces.
(12) Recheck the fluid level. The level should be in
the HOT range.
SEVERE USAGE SERVICE
If the vehicle exhibits any of the following symp-
toms, it is recommended that the transaxle oil and
filter be replaced.
²Transaxle oil discolored
²Transaxle oil has high mileage
²Oil feels grimy when rubbed between fingertips
²Poor shift quality
²Delayed gear engagement
²Vehicle shudder between shifts
TRANSAXLE OIL AND FILTER REPLACEMENT
This procedure involves changing the transaxle
fluid and filter, driving the vehicle for 10 miles and
changing the transaxle fluid a second time.
(1) Bring the vehicle up to normal operating tem-
perature. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10 miles.
(2) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(3) Loosen the transaxle oil pan and drain the
fluid into a suitable container.
(4) Remove the pan and clean all sealant from the
pan and transaxle mating surfaces. Clean the mag-
net and the inside of the pan.
(5) Separate the filter and O-ring from the valve
body. Inspect the O-ring for cuts or improper instal-
lation. This could lead to delayed garage shifts.
(6) Install a new filter. Replace the O-ring as nec-
essary.
(7) Apply a 1/8 inch bead of Mopar RTV Sealant to
the mounting flange of the transaxle oil pan. Apply
RTV Sealant to the underside of the attaching bolts.
Attach the oil pan to the transaxle. Tighten the bolts
to 19 N²m (165 in. lbs.).
(8) Lower the vehicle and add 4 Quarts of Mopar
ATF Plus 3 Type 7176 transaxle fluid.
(9) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(10) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.(11) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is
at normal operating temperature. The level should be
in the HOT range. Drive the vehicle a minimum of
10 miles.
(12) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(13) Remove the pan and clean all sealant from
the pan and transaxle mating surfaces. Clean the
magnet and the inside of the pan.
(14) Separate the filter from the valve body to
allow additional fluid to drain from the transaxle.
Inspect the filter O-ring for any damage and replace
as necessary.
(15) After the transaxle has stopped draining,
reinstall the filter and O-ring.
(16) Apply a 1/8 inch bead of Mopar RTV Sealant
to the mounting flange of the transaxle oil pan.
Apply RTV Sealant to the underside of the attaching
bolts. Attach the oil pan to the transaxle. Tighten the
bolts to 19 N²m (165 in. lbs.).
(17) Lower the vehicle and add 4 Quarts of Mopar
ATF Plus 3 Type 7176 transaxle fluid.
(18) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(19) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(20) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is
at normal operating temperature. The level should be
in the HOT range.
FLUID DRAIN AND REFILL
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist (See Group 0, Lubrica-
tion). 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 gasket on bottom of the
valve body and tighten retaining screws to 5 N´m (40
inch-pounds).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new sealant. Tighten oil pan bolts to 19 N´m
(165 in. lbs.).
(5) Pour four quarts of Mopar ATF PLUS 3 (Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid) type 7176 into the tran-
saxle filler tube.
(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.
(7) Add sufficient fluid to bring level to 1/8 inch
below the ADD mark.
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 57
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

(8) Recheck fluid level after transaxle is at normal
operating temperature. The level should be in the
HOT region.
ALUMINUM THREAD REPAIR
Damaged or worn threads in the aluminum tran-
saxle case and valve body can be repaired by the use
of Heli-Coils. This repair consists of drilling out the
worn-out or damaged threads. Then tap the hole with
a Heli-Coil tap, and install a Heli-Coil insert into the
hole. This brings the hole back to its original thread
size.
Heli-Coil tools and inserts are readily available
from most automotive parts suppliers.
FLUSHING COOLERS AND TUBES
When a transaxle failure has contaminated the
fluid, the oil cooler(s) must be flushed. The cooler
bypass valve in the transaxle must be replaced also.
The torque converter must also be replaced with an
exchange unit. This will ensure that metal particles
or sludged oil are not later transferred back into the
reconditioned (or replaced) transaxle.
The recommended procedure for flushing the cool-
ers and tubes is to use Tool 6906A Cooler Flusher.
WARNING: WEAR PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR THAT
MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF OSHA AND ANSI
Z87.1±1968. WEAR STANDARD INDUSTRIAL RUB-
BER GLOVES.
KEEP LIGHTED CIGARETTES, SPARKS, FLAMES,
AND OTHER IGNITION SOURCES AWAY FROM THE
AREA TO PREVENT THE IGNITION OF COMBUSTI-
BLE LIQUIDS AND GASES. KEEP A CLASS (B) FIRE
EXTINGUISHER IN THE AREA WHERE THE
FLUSHER WILL BE USED.
KEEP THE AREA WELL VENTILATED.
DO NOT LET FLUSHING SOLVENT COME IN CON-
TACT WITH YOUR EYES OR SKIN: IF EYE CONTAM-
INATION OCCURS, FLUSH EYES WITH WATER FOR
15 TO 20 SECONDS. REMOVE CONTAMINATED
CLOTHING AND WASH AFFECTED SKIN WITH
SOAP AND WATER. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.
COOLER FLUSH USING TOOL 6906A
(1) Remove cover plate filler plug on Tool 6906A.
Fill reservoir 1/2 to 3/4 full of fresh flushing solution.
Flushing solvents are petroleum based solutions gen-
erally used to clean automatic transmission compo-
nents.DO NOTuse solvents containing acids, water,
gasoline, or any other corrosive liquids.
(2) Reinstall filler plug on Tool 6906A.
(3) Verify pump power switch is turned OFF. Con-
nect red alligator clip to positive (+) battery post.
Connect black (-) alligator clip to a good ground.
(4) Disconnect the cooler lines at the transmission.NOTE: When flushing transmission cooler and
lines, ALWAYS reverse flush.
(5) Connect the BLUE pressure line to the OUT-
LET (From) cooler line.
(6) Connect the CLEAR return line to the INLET
(To) cooler line
(7) Turn pump ON for two to three minutes to
flush cooler(s) and lines. Monitor pressure readings
and clear return lines. Pressure readings should sta-
bilize below 20 psi. for vehicles equipped with a sin-
gle cooler and 30 psi. for vehicles equipped with dual
coolers. If flow is intermittent or exceeds these pres-
sures, replace cooler.
(8) Turn pump OFF.
(9) Disconnect CLEAR suction line from reservoir
at cover plate. Disconnect CLEAR return line at
cover plate, and place it in a drain pan.
(10) Turn pump ON for 30 seconds to purge flush-
ing solution from cooler and lines. Turn pump OFF.
(11) Place CLEAR suction line into a one quart
container of Mopar ATF Plus 3ttype 7176 automatic
transmission fluid.
(12) Turn pump ON until all transmission fluid is
removed from the one quart container and lines. This
purges any residual cleaning solvent from the trans-
mission cooler and lines. Turn pump OFF.
(13) Disconnect alligator clips from battery. Recon-
nect flusher lines to cover plate, and remove flushing
adapters from cooler lines.
OIL PUMP VOLUME CHECK
After the new or repaired transmission has been
installed, fill to the proper level with Mopar ATF
PLUS 3 (Type 7176) automatic transmission fluid.
The volume should be checked using the following
procedure:
(1) Disconnect theFrom coolerline at the trans-
mission and place a collecting container under the
disconnected line.
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) Run the engineat curb idle speed, with the
shift selector in neutral.
(3) If fluid flow is intermittent or it takes more
than 20 seconds to collect one quart of ATF, discon-
nect theTo Coolerline at the transaxle.
(4) Refill the transaxle to proper level and recheck
pump volume.
(5) If flow is found to be within acceptable limits,
replace the cooler. Then fill transmission to the
proper level, using Mopar ATF PLUS 3 (Type 7176)
automatic transmission fluid.
21 - 58 TRANSAXLEPL
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR PINION GEAR
When the sensor is removed for any reason, a
NEW O-ring must be installed on its outside diame-
ter.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove harness connector from sensor. Be sure
weather seal stays on harness connector.
(2) Remove bolt securing the sensor in the exten-
sion housing.
(3) Carefully pull sensor and pinion gear assembly
out of extension housing.
(4) Remove pinion gear from sensor.
INSTALLATION
(1) To install, reverse the above procedure. Be sure
extension housing and sensor flange are clean prior
to installation. Always use a NEW sensor O-ring.
(2) Tighten bolt to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.). Tighten
speedometer cable to 4 N´m (35 in. lbs.).
PARK/NEUTRAL STARTING AND BACK-UP LAMP
SWITCH
TEST
The park/neutral starting switch is the center ter-
minal of the three terminal switch. It provides
ground for the starter solenoid circuit through the
selector lever in PARK and NEUTRAL positions only.
(1) To test switch, remove wiring connector from
switch and test for continuity between center pin of
switch and transaxle case. Continuity should exist
only when transaxle is in PARK or NEUTRAL.
(2) Check gearshift cable adjustment before replac-
ing a switch that tests bad.
REMOVAL
(1) Unscrew switch from transaxle case allowing
fluid to drain into a container. Move selector lever to
PARK, then to NEUTRAL position, and inspect to see
the switch operating lever fingers are centered in
switch opening.
INSTALLATION
(1) Screw the switch with a new seal into tran-
saxle case and tighten to 33 N´m (24 ft. lbs.). Retest
switch with the test lamp.
(2) Add fluid to transaxle to bring up to proper
level.
(3) The back-up lamp switch circuit is through the
two outside terminals of the three terminal switch.
(4) To test switch, remove wiring connector from
switch and test for continuity between the two out-
side pins.
(5) Continuity should exist only with transaxle in
REVERSE position.(6) No continuity should exist from either pin to
the case.
TRANSAXLE
REMOVAL
NOTE: The transaxle can be removed from the
vehicle without having to remove the engine.
The transaxle and torque converter must be
removed as an assembly; otherwise, the torque con-
verter drive plate, pump bushing, or oil seal may be
damaged. The drive plate will not support a load;
therefore, none of the weight of the transaxle should
be allowed to rest on the plate during removal.
All transaxle components are serviced with the
transaxle out of the vehicle. The components that are
serviceable in the vehicle are:
²Axle shaft seals
²Back±up lamp switch
²End plate
²Extension housing
²Neutral safety switch
²Shift lever
²Transaxle oil pan
²Valve Body
²Vehicle speed sensor
(1) Disconnect the battery.
(2) Pull Power Distribution Center up and out of
its holding bracket. Set Power Distribution Center
aside to gain clearance.
(3) Remove battery heat shield and remove battery
from engine compartment. Remove battery tray from
engine compartment. Disconnect cruise control (if
equipped).
(4) Remove vehicle speed sensor wiring.
(5) Disconnect neutral safety switch and torque
converter control wiring at transaxle.
CAUTION: Pry up with equal force on both sides of
shifter cable isolator bushing to avoid damaging
cable isolator bushing.
(6) Disconnect gear shift cable end from transaxle
shift lever (Fig. 22). Remove bracket bolt at transaxle
(Fig. 23).
(7) Remove throttle pressure control cable from
lever. Then remove bracket bolts at the transaxle
(Fig. 24).
(8) Remove dipstick tube.
(9) Remove transaxle cooler lines and plug lines
(Fig. 25).
(10) Remove throttle pressure control cable sup-
port bracket bolts. Remove upper bellhousing bolts
and upper starter bolt (Fig. 26).
21 - 64 TRANSAXLEPL
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

ADJUSTMENT
(1) Set parking brake.
(2) Remove floor console. Refer to Group 23, Body.
(3) Place gearshift lever in the (PARK) (P) posi-
tion.
(4) Push down on the tab and unsnap the collar at
the shifter cable to allow the cable to be adjusted
(Fig. 196).
(5) Move the gearshift lever on the transaxle to
the PARKposition.
(6) Verify the shift lever and transaxle are in the
PARK position. Rotate collar on the shift cable
adjuster end up until it seats against the plastic
housing. NOTE: If the collar will not rotate to the
fully detented lock position, rotate the collar back to
its initial unlocked position. Position the ATX in the
gated PARK position. Apply a slight load to the shift
lever, fore or aft in vehicle, while simultaneously
rotating the collar upward to the LOCK position. The
collar must seat against the plastic housing to
achieve the required detented lock position. The gear-
shift linkage should now be properly adjusted.
Check adjustment as follows:
(7) Detent position for NEUTRAL and DRIVE
should be within limits of hand lever gate stops.
(8) Key start must occur only when the shift lever
is in PARK or NEUTRAL positions.
THROTTLE PRESSURE CABLE ADJUSTMENT
PROCEDURE
The throttle pressure cable adjustment is very
important to proper transaxle operation. This adjust-
ment positions a valve which controls shift speed,
shift quality, and part throttle downshift sensitivity.
If the setting is too long, early shifts and slippage
between shifts may occur. If the setting is too short,
shifts may be delayed and part throttle downshifts
may be very sensitive.(1) Perform transaxle throttle pressure cable
adjustment while engine is at normal operating tem-
perature.
(2) Release cross-lock on the cable assembly (pull
cross-lock upward) see (Fig. 197).
(3) To ensure proper adjustment, the cable must be
free to slide all the way toward the engine, against
its stop, after the cross-lock is released.
(4) Move transaxle throttle control lever fully
clockwise, against its internal stop, and press cross-
lock downward into locked position.
The adjustment is complete and transaxle throttle
cable backlash was automatically removed.
Test cable freedom of operation by moving the
transaxle throttle lever forward (counterclockwise).
Then slowly release it to confirm it will return fully
rearward (clockwise).
No lubrication is required for any component of the
throttle cable system.
SHIFTER/IGNITION INTERLOCK SYSTEM
If ignition switch cannot be turned to the LOCK
position, with shifter in PARK, an adjustment of the
Interlock System may be required. To adjust Shifter/
Ignition Interlock System, follow procedure listed
below.
(1) Disconnect and isolate, the battery negative (-)
cable from the vehicle battery.
(2) Remove console assembly. Refer to Group 23,
Body.
(3) Remove the gearshift knob set screw and knob.
(4) Remove the screws retaining the gearshift indi-
cator bezel and remove bezel and indicator lamp.
(5) Reinstall the gearshift knob.
(6) Place shifter in PARK.
(7) Turn ignition switch to the LOCK or ACCES-
SORY position. If cable has lost its adjustment, man-
ually position cable to get key into LOCK or
ACCESSORY position. Grasp slug on interlock cable
Fig. 196 Gearshift Cable Adjustment
Fig. 197 Throttle Pressure Cable Adjuster Lock
21 - 100 TRANSAXLEPL
ADJUSTMENTS (Continued)

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION......................... 2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS..... 2
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
A/C REFRIGERANT LINES................. 3
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR............... 3
COMPRESSOR FRONT SHAFT SEAL......... 4
COMPRESSOR.......................... 4
CONDENSATION DRAIN TUBE.............. 4
ENGINE COOLING SSTEM
REQUIREMENTS....................... 4
EVAPORATOR PROBE..................... 4
HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS.......... 4
HIGH PRESSURE CUT OUT SWITCH......... 5
LOW PRESSURE CUT OFF SWITCH......... 5
SIDE WINDOW DEMISTERS............... 5
SYSTEM AIRFLOW....................... 5
SYSTEM OIL LEVEL...................... 6
VACUUM CONTROL SYSTEM............... 6
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
A/C PERFORMANCE TEST................. 6
BLOWER MOTOR ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS . . . 8
BLOWER MOTOR VIBRATION
AND/OR NOISE DIAGNOSIS.............. 8
COMPRESSOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS.......... 7
EVAPORATOR PROBE TEST................ 8
EXPANSION VALVE....................... 7
HEATER PERFORMANCE TEST............. 8
LOW PRESSURE CUT-OFF SWITCH......... 11
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL TEST............ 11
VACUUM CONTROL SYSTEM.............. 12
SERVICE PROCEDURES
CHARGING A/C SYSTEM................. 14
EVACUATING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM....... 15R-134a REFRIGERANT................... 16
SERVICING REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL...... 17
SYSTEM LEAK CHECKING................ 17
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
A/C FILTER/DRIER...................... 23
A/C SERVICE PORT VALVE CORES......... 18
BLOWER MOTOR AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY . . . 18
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR.............. 18
BLOWER MOTOR WHEEL................ 19
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL ASSEMBLY.... 19
COMPRESSOR......................... 19
CONDENSATION DRAIN TUBE............ 21
CONDENSER........................... 21
DISCHARGE LINE....................... 21
EVAPORATOR PROBE.................... 22
EVAPORATOR.......................... 21
EXPANSION VALVE...................... 23
HEATER CORE......................... 24
HEATER HOSES........................ 24
HIGH PRESSURE CUT OUT SWITCH........ 23
HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE........... 24
LIQUID LINE........................... 25
LOW PRESSURE CUT OFF SWITCH........ 25
MODE CONTROL CABLE................. 25
RECIRCULATION DOOR ACTUATOR........ 26
SUCTION LINE......................... 27
TEMPERATURE CONTROL CABLE.......... 27
UNIT HOUSING......................... 27
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY
AIR DISTRIBUTION MODULE ±
RECONDITION........................ 28
ADJUSTMENTS
MODE CONTROL CABLE................. 30
TEMPERATURE CONTROL CABLE.......... 30
PLHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 1

COMPRESSOR
The compressor used on this vehicle is a Nippon-
denso 10PA17 R-134a. This compressor uses an alu-
minum swash plate, teflon coated pistons and
aluminum sleeved cylinder walls.
CAUTION: A 10PA17 R-12 compressor looks identi-
cal to a 10PA17 R-134a and will bolt up to the vehi-
cle. The 10PA17 R-12 compressor must not be used
on this system. It is extremely important that a
10PA17 R-134a compressor is identified prior to
using compressor in question. Check tag located
on compressor for model number.
NOISE
Excessive noise that occurs when the air condition-
ing is being used may be caused by:
²Loose bolts
²Mounting brackets
²Loose compressor clutch
²Excessive high refrigerant operating pressure
Verify the following before compressor repair is
performed:
(1) Compressor drive belt condition
(2) Proper refrigerant charge
(3) Thermal expansion valve (TXV) operating cor-
rectly
(4) Head pressure is normal
COMPRESSOR FRONT SHAFT SEAL
The compressor front shaft seal is not serviceable.
If a leak is detected at the shaft seal, the compressor
must be replaced as a unit.
CONDENSATION DRAIN TUBE
Condensation that accumulates in the evaporator
housing is drained from a tube through the dash and
on to the ground. This tube must be kept open to
prevent condensate water from collecting in the bot-
tom of the housing.
The tapered end of the drain tube is designed to
keep contaminants from entering the heater A/C unit
housing. If the tube is pinched or blocked, condensate
cannot drain, causing water to back up and spill into
the passenger compartment. It is normal to see con-
densate drainage below the vehicle. If the tube is
damaged, it should be replaced.
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
To maintain ample temperature levels from the
heating-A/C system, the cooling system must be in
proper working order. Refer to Group 0, Lubrication
and Maintenance or Group 7, Cooling System of this
manual.
The use of a bug screen is not recommended. Any
obstructions forward of the condenser can reduce the
effectiveness of the air conditioning system.
EVAPORATOR PROBE
The evaporator probe can be replaced without hav-
ing to remove the unit housing from the vehicle.
The evaporator probe is located in the unit housing
and placed in the evaporator fins. The probe prevents
evaporator freeze-up. This is done by cycling the com-
pressor clutch OFF when evaporator temperature
drops below freeze point. It cycles ON when the
evaporator temperature rises above freeze point. The
evaporator probe uses a thermistor probe in a capil-
lary tube. The tube is inserted between the evapora-
tor fins in the heater-A/C unit housing.
HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS
Kinks in the refrigerant tubing or sharp bends in
the refrigerant hose lines will greatly reduce the
capacity of the entire system. High pressures are pro-
duced in the system when it is operating. Extreme
care must be exercised to make sure that all connec-
tions are pressure tight. Dirt and moisture can enter
the system when it is opened for repair or replace-
ment of lines or components. The refrigerant oil will
absorb moisture readily out of the air. This moisture
will convert into acids within a closed system.
Fig. 7 Resistor Block
24 - 4 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)