clutch DODGE NEON 2000 Service Manual PDF

²All inputs monitored for proper voltage range.
²All monitored components (refer to the Emission
section for On-Board Diagnostics).
The PCM compares the upstream and downstream
heated oxygen sensor inputs to measure catalytic
convertor efficiency. If the catalyst efficiency drops
below the minimum acceptable percentage, the PCM
stores a diagnostic trouble code in memory.
During certain idle conditions, the PCM may enter
a variable idle speed strategy. During variable idle
speed strategy the PCM adjusts engine speed based
on the following inputs.
²A/C sense
²Battery voltage
²Battery temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²Engine run time
²Power steering pressure switch
²Vehicle mileage
ACCELERATION MODE
This is a CLOSED LOOP mode. The PCM recog-
nizes an abrupt increase in Throttle Position sensor
output voltage or MAP sensor output voltage as a
demand for increased engine output and vehicle
acceleration. The PCM increases injector pulse width
in response to increased fuel demand.
DECELERATION MODE
This is a CLOSED LOOP mode. During decelera-
tion the following inputs are received by the PCM:
²A/C pressure transducer
²A/C sense
²Battery voltage
²Intake air temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²Crankshaft position (engine speed)
²Exhaust gas oxygen content (upstream heated
oxygen sensor)
²Knock sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Power steering pressure switch
²Throttle position
²IAC motor control changes in response to MAP
sensor feedback.
The PCM may receive a closed throttle input from
the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) when it senses an
abrupt decrease in manifold pressure. This indicates
a hard deceleration. In response, the PCM may
momentarily turn off the injectors. This helps
improve fuel economy, emissions and engine braking.
If decel fuel shutoff is detected, downstream oxy-
gen sensor diagnostics is performed.WIDE-OPEN-THROTTLE MODE
This is an OPEN LOOP mode. During wide-open-
throttle operation, the following inputs are received
by the PCM:
²Intake air temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²Engine speed
²Knock sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Throttle position
When the PCM senses a wide-open-throttle condi-
tion through the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) it de-
energizes the A/C compressor clutch relay. This
disables the air conditioning system.
The PCM does not monitor the heated oxygen sen-
sor inputs during wide-open-throttle operation except
for downstream heated oxygen sensor and both
shorted diagnostics. The PCM adjusts injector pulse
width to supply a predetermined amount of addi-
tional fuel.
IGNITION SWITCH OFF MODE
When the operator turns the ignition switch to the
OFF position, the following occurs:
²All outputs are turned off, unless 02 Heater
Monitor test is being run. Refer to the Emission sec-
tion for On-Board Diagnostics.
²No inputs are monitored except for the heated
oxygen sensors. The PCM monitors the heating ele-
ments in the oxygen sensors and then shuts down.
SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
OPERATION
The PCM can test many of its own input and out-
put circuits. If the PCM senses a fault in a major
system, the PCM stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) in memory.
For DTC information see On-Board Diagnostics.
POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
The Power Distribution Center (PDC) is located
next to the battery (Fig. 1). The PDC contains the
starter relay, radiator fan relay, A/C compressor
clutch relay, auto shutdown relay, fuel pump relay
and several fuses.
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a digital
computer containing a microprocessor (Fig. 2). The
PCM receives input signals from various switches
and sensors that are referred to as PCM Inputs.
Based on these inputs, the PCM adjusts various
engine and vehicle operations through devices that
are referred to as PCM Outputs.
PCM Inputs:
14 - 24 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

²Air Conditioning Controls
²Battery Voltage
²Inlet Air/Battery Temperature Sensor
²Brake Switch
²Camshaft Position Sensor
²Crankshaft Position Sensor
²Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
²Fuel Level Sensor
²Ignition Switch
²Inlet Air/Intake Air Temperature Sensor
²Knock Sensor
²Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
²Oxygen Sensors
²Power Steering Pressure Switch²SCI Receive
²Speed Control Switches
²Throttle Position Sensor
²Transmission Park/Neutral Switch (automatic
transmission)
²Vehicle Speed Sensor
PCM Outputs:
²Air Conditioning WOT Relay
²Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay
²Charging Indicator Lamp
²Data Link Connector
²Proportional Purge Solenoid
²EGR Solenoid
²Fuel Injectors
²Fuel Pump Relay
²Generator Field
²Idle Air Control Motor
²Ignition Coils
²Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine) Lamp
²Radiator Fan Relay
²Speed Control Solenoids
²Tachometer
²Torque Convertor Clutch Solenoid
Based on inputs it receives, the PCM adjusts fuel
injector pulse width, idle speed, ignition spark
advance, ignition coil dwell and EVAP canister purge
operation. The PCM regulates the cooling fan, air
conditioning and speed control systems. The PCM
changes generator charge rate by adjusting the gen-
erator field. The PCM also performs diagnostics.
The PCM adjusts injector pulse width (air-fuel
ratio) based on the following inputs.
²Battery voltage
²Coolant temperature
²Inlet Air/Intake air temperature
²Exhaust gas content (oxygen sensor)
²Engine speed (crankshaft position sensor)
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Throttle position
The PCM adjusts ignition timing based on the fol-
lowing inputs.
²Coolant temperature
²Inlet Air/Intake air temperature
²Engine speed (crankshaft position sensor)
²Knock sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Throttle position
²Transmission gear selection (park/neutral
switch)
The PCM also adjusts engine idle speed through
the idle air control motor based on the following
inputs.
²Air conditioning sense
²Battery voltage
²Battery temperature
²Brake switch
Fig. 1 Power Distribution Center (PDC)
Fig. 2 Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
1 ± PCM
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 25
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

As the engine enters one of these cells the PCM
looks at the amount of short term correction being
used. Because the goal is to keep short term at 0 (O2
Sensor switching at 0.5 volt), long term will update
in the same direction as short term correction was
moving to bring the short term back to 0. Once short
term is back at 0, this long term correction factor is
stored in memory.
The values stored in long term adaptive memory
are used for all operating conditions, including open
loop. However, the updating of the long term memoryoccurs after the engine has exceeded approximately
17É F, with fuel control in closed loop and two min-
utes of engine run time. This is done to prevent any
transitional temperature or start-up compensations
from corrupting long term fuel correction.
Long term adaptive memory can change the pulse-
width by as much as 25%, which means it can correct
for all of short term. It is possible to have a problem
that would drive long term to 25% and short term to
another 25% for a total change of 50% away from
base pulse-width calculation.
TYPICAL ADAPTIVE MEMORY FUEL CELLS
Open
ThrottleOpen
ThrottleOpen
ThrottleOpen
ThrottleOpen
ThrottleOpen
Throttle Idle Decel
Vacuum 20 17 13 9 5 0
Above 1,984
rpm1 3 5 7 9 11 13 Drive 15
Below 1,984
rpm02 4 6 8 1012
Neutral14
MAP volt =0 1.4 2.0 2.6 3.3 3.9
Fuel Correction Diagnostics
There are two fuel correction diagnostic routines:
²Fuel System Rich
²Fuel System Lean
A DTC is set and the MIL is illuminated if the
PCM detects either of these conditions.
PROGRAMMABLE COMMUNICATIONS
INTERFACE (PCI) BUS
OPERATION
Various modules exchange information through a
communications port called the PCI Bus. The Power-
train Control Module (PCM) transmits the Malfunc-
tion Indicator Lamp (Check Engine) On/Off signal
and engine RPM on the PCI Bus. The PCM receives
the Air Conditioning select input, transaxle gear
position inputs over the PCI Bus. The PCM also
receives the air conditioning evaporator temperature
signal from the PCI Bus.
The following components access or send informa-
tion on the PCI Bus.
²Instrument Panel
²Body Control Module
²Air Bag System Diagnostic Module
²Full ATC Display Head
²ABS Module
²Transmission Control Module
²Powertrain Control Module
²Overhead Travel Module
AIR CONDITIONING PRESSURE
TRANSDUCERÐPCM INPUT
OPERATION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors
the A/C compressor discharge (high side) pressure
through the air conditioning pressure transducer.
The transducer supplies an input to the PCM. The
PCM engages the A/C compressor clutch if pressure
is sufficient for A/C system operation.
AUTOMATIC SHUTDOWN (ASD) SENSEÐPCM
INPUT
OPERATION
The ASD sense circuit informs the PCM when the
ASD relay energizes. A 12 volt signal at this input
indicates to the PCM that the ASD has been acti-
vated. This input is used only to sense that the ASD
relay is energized.
When energized, the ASD relay supplies battery
voltage to the fuel injectors, ignition coils and the
heating element in each oxygen sensor. If the PCM
does not receive 12 volts from this input after
grounding the ASD relay, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble
Code (DTC).
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 27
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

CLUTCH INTERLOCK/UPSTOP SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The clutch interlock/upstop switch is an assembly
consisting of two switches: an engine starter inhibit
switch (interlock) and a clutch pedal upstop switch
(Fig. 6). The switch assembly is located in the clutch/
brake pedal bracket assembly (Fig. 7), each switch
being fastened by four plastic wing tabs.
OPERATION
Clutch Interlock Switch
The clutch interlock switch prevents engine starter
operation and inadvertent vehicle movement with the
clutch engaged and the transaxle in gear.
The switch is open while the clutch pedal is at
rest. When the clutch pedal is fully depressed, the
pedal blade contacts and closes the switch, sending a
Fig. 4 Target MagnetÐTypical
1 ± CAM MAGNET/TARGET
2 ± CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
Fig. 5 Target Magnet Polarity
1 ± TARGET MAGNET
Fig. 6 Clutch Interlock/Upstop Switch
1 ± UPSTOP SWITCH
2 ± INTERLOCK SWITCH
3 ± CONNECTOR
Fig. 7 Clutch/Brake Pedal Bracket Assembly
1 ± UPSTOP SWITCH
2 ± CLUTCH PEDAL
3 ± INTERLOCK SWITCH
4 ± CONNECTOR
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 29
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

signal to the PCM, allowing engine starter operation.
The interlock switch is not adjustable.
Clutch Pedal Upstop Switch
With the clutch pedal at rest, the clutch pedal
upstop switch is closed, allowing speed control oper-
ation. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the upstop
switch opens and signals the PCM to cancel speed
control operation, and enter a modified engine cali-
bration schedule to improve driveability during gear-
to-gear shifts. The upstop switch is not adjustable.
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSORÐPCM
INPUT
DESCRIPTION
The crankshaft position sensor mounts to the front
of the engine block (Fig. 8).
OPERATION
The PCM determines what cylinder to fire from the
crankshaft position sensor input and the camshaft
position sensor input. The second crankshaft counter-
weight has two sets of four timing reference notches
including a 60 degree signature notch (Fig. 9). From
the crankshaft position sensor input the PCM deter-
mines engine speed and crankshaft angle (position).
The notches generate pulses from high to low in
the crankshaft position sensor output voltage. When
a metal portion of the counterweight aligns with the
crankshaft position sensor, the sensor output voltage
goes low (less than 0.5 volts). When a notch aligns
with the sensor, voltage goes high (5.0 volts). As a
group of notches pass under the sensor, the output
voltage switches from low (metal) to high (notch)
then back to low.If available, an oscilloscope can display the square
wave patterns of each voltage pulses. From the width
of the output voltage pulses, the PCM calculates
engine speed. The width of the pulses represent the
amount of time the output voltage stays high before
switching back to low. The period of time the sensor
output voltage stays high before switching back to
low is referred to as pulse width. The faster the
engine is operating, the smaller the pulse width on
the oscilloscope.
By counting the pulses and referencing the pulse
from the 60 degree signature notch, the PCM calcu-
lates crankshaft angle (position). In each group of
timing reference notches, the first notch represents
69 degrees before top dead center (BTDC). The sec-
ond notch represents 49 degrees BTDC. The third
notch represents 29 degrees. The last notch in each
set represents 9 degrees before top dead center
(TDC).
The timing reference notches are machined at 20É
increments. From the voltage pulse width the PCM
tells the difference between the timing reference
notches and the 60 degree signature notch. The 60
degree signature notch produces a longer pulse width
than the smaller timing reference notches. If the
camshaft position sensor input switches from high to
low when the 60 degree signature notch passes under
the crankshaft position sensor, the PCM knows cylin-
der number one is the next cylinder at TDC.
The PCM uses the Crankshaft Position sensor to
calculate the following: Engine RPM, TDC number 1
and 4, Ignition coil synchronization, Injection Syn-
chronization, Camshaft-to-crankshaft misalignment
where applicable (Timing belt skipped 1 tooth or
more diagnostic trouble code).
The PCM sends approximately 9 volts to the Hall-
effect sensor. This voltage is required to operate the
Hall-effect chip and the electronics inside the sensor.
A ground for the sensor is provided through the sen-
sor return circuit. The input to the PCM occurs on a
5 volt output reference circuit.
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSORÐ
PCM INPUT
DESCRIPTION
The coolant sensor threads into the rear of the cyl-
inder head, next to the camshaft position sensor (Fig.
10). New sensors have sealant applied to the threads.
The ECT Sensor is a Negative Thermal Coefficient
(NTC), dual range Sensor. The resistance of the ECT
Sensor changes as coolant temperature changes. This
results in different input voltages to the PCM. The
PCM also uses the ECT Sensor input to operate the
low and high speed radiator cooling fans.
Fig. 8 Crankshaft Position Sensor
14 - 30 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

Like all Hall-effect sensors, the electronics of the
sensor needs a power source. This power source is
provided by the PCM. It is the same 8 volt power
supply that is used by the CKP and CMP sensors.
The vehicle speed sensor generates 8 pulses per
sensor revolution. This signal, in conjunction with a
closed throttle signal from the throttle position sen-
sor, indicates a closed throttle deceleration to the
PCM. Under deceleration conditions, the PCM
adjusts the Idle Air Control (IAC) motor to maintain
a desired MAP value.
When the vehicle is stopped at idle, a closed throt-
tle signal is received by the PCM (but a speed sensor
signal is not received). Under idle conditions, the
PCM adjusts the IAC motor to maintain a desired
engine speed.
AIR CONDITIONING CLUTCH RELAYÐPCM
OUTPUT
DESCRIPTION
The air conditioning clutch relay is located in the
PDC. The inside top of the PDC cover has a label
showing relay and fuse location.
OPERATION
The PCM controls the air conditioning clutch relay
ground circuit. The A/C clutch relay coil side contains
a 10 amp fuse between the buss bar in the Power
Distribution Center (PDC) and the relay. The power
side of this relay is fused with a 40 amp fuse. When
the PCM receives an air conditioning input, it
grounds the A/C compressor clutch relay and the
radiator fan relay.
When the PCM senses low idle speeds or wide open
throttle through the throttle position sensor, it
removes the ground for the A/C compressor clutch
relay. When the relay de-energizes, the contacts open
preventing air conditioning clutch engagement. Also,
if the PCM senses a part throttle launch condition, it
disables the A/C compressor clutch for several sec-
onds.
AUTOMATIC SHUTDOWN RELAYÐPCM
OUTPUT
DESCRIPTION
The ASD relay is located in the PDC. The inside
top of the PDC cover has a label showing relay and
fuse location.
OPERATION
The automatic shutdown (ASD) relay supplies bat-
tery voltage to the fuel injectors, electronic ignition
coil and the heating elements in the oxygen sensors
generator field and PCM sense circuit.A buss bar in the power distribution center (PDC)
supplies voltage to the solenoid side and contact side
of the relay. The ASD relay power circuit contains a
fuse between the buss bar in the PDC and the relay.
The fuse also protects the power circuit for the fuel
pump relay and pump. The fuse is located in the
PDC. Refer to the Wiring Diagrams for circuit infor-
mation.
The PCM controls the relay by switching the
ground path for the solenoid side of the relay on and
off. The PCM turns the ground path off when the
ignition switch is in the Off position unless the 02
Heater Monitor test is being run. When the ignition
switch is in the On or Crank position, the PCM mon-
itors the crankshaft position sensor and camshaft
position sensor signals to determine engine speed
and ignition timing (coil dwell). If the PCM does not
receive the crankshaft position sensor and camshaft
position sensor signals when the ignition switch is in
the Run position, it will de-energize the ASD relay.
CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR LAMPÐPCM
OUTPUT
OPERATION
The PCM turns the instrument panel Charging
System Lamp on. Refer to the Charging system sec-
tion information.
FUEL PUMP RELAYÐPCM OUTPUT
DESCRIPTION
The fuel pump relay is located in the PDC. The
inside top of the PDC cover has a label showing relay
and fuse location.
OPERATION
The fuel pump relay supplies battery voltage to the
fuel pump. A buss bar in the Power Distribution Cen-
ter (PDC) supplies voltage to the solenoid side and
contact side of the relay. The fuel pump relay power
circuit contains a fuse between the buss bar in the
PDC and the relay. The fuse also protects the power
circuit for the Automatic Shutdown (ASD) relay. The
fuse is located in the PDC. Refer to the Wiring Dia-
grams for circuit information.
The PCM controls the fuel pump relay by switch-
ing the ground path for the solenoid side of the relay
on and off. The PCM turns the ground path off when
the ignition switch is in the Off position. When the
ignition switch is in the On position, the PCM ener-
gizes the fuel pump. If the crankshaft position sensor
does not detect engine rotation, the PCM de-ener-
gizes the relay after approximately one second.
14 - 38 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

Control Module (PCM) receives data from the DRB
through the SCI Receive circuit.
TACHOMETERÐPCM OUTPUT
OPERATION
The PCM operates the tachometer on the instru-
ment panel. The PCM calculates engine RPM from
the crankshaft position sensor input. Sends the infor-
mation to the cluster across the bus.
TORQUE CONVERTOR CLUTCH SOLENOIDÐ
PCM OUTPUT
OPERATION
Three-speed automatic transaxles use a torque con-
verter clutch solenoid. The PCM controls the engage-
ment of the torque converter clutch through the
solenoid (Fig. 28). The torque converter clutch is
engaged up only in direct drive mode. Refer to the
Transmission section for information.
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
THROTTLE BODY
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect the negative battery cable (Fig. 29).
(2) Remove the air cleaner box cover.
(3) Remove the air cleaner element (Fig. 30). Pull
up on element, past the lip in the box, to remove it
from the air cleaner box.
(4) Disconnect the electrical connection at the
throttle body.
(5) Loosen the clamp on throttle body outlet hose.(6) Remove the bolts holding the throttle body to
the air cleaner box (Fig. 31).
(7) Remove cable's from throttle body cam (Fig.
32).INSTALLATION
(1) Install cable's into throttle cam and clip cable's
into throttle cable bracket.
(2) Install throttle body onto air cleaner box.
Tighten mounting bolts.
(3) Install and tighten the clamp on throttle body
outlet hose.
(4) Connect the electrical connectors to the throttle
body.
Fig. 28 Torque Convertor Clutch Solenoid
1 ± TORQUE CONVERTOR CLUTCH SOLENOID
2 ± AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE HOUSING
3 ± PARK/NEUTRAL SWITCH
Fig. 29 Battery Negative Cable
Fig. 30 Air Cleaner Element
1 ± LIP
14 - 42 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

TRANSAXLE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
NV T350 (A-578) MANUAL TRANSAXLE........ 131TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE.............. 54
NV T350 (A-578) MANUAL TRANSAXLE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION
NV T350 (A578) MANUAL TRANSAXLE.........1
TRANSAXLE IDENTIFICATION................2
FLUID REQUIREMENTS....................2
SPECIAL ADDITIVES.......................2
SEALANTS..............................2
GEAR RATIOS............................2
GEARSHIFT PATTERN......................3
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
COMMON PROBLEM CAUSES...............3
HARD SHIFTING..........................3
NOISY OPERATION........................3
SLIPS OUT OF GEAR......................3
LOW LUBRICANT LEVEL....................4
FLUID LEAKS............................4
CLUTCH PROBLEMS.......................4
SERVICE PROCEDURES
FLUID DRAIN AND FILL.....................4
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
GEARSHIFT KNOB........................4
GEARSHIFT BOOT........................5
GEARSHIFT CABLE ASSEMBLY..............6
GEARSHIFT MECHANISM REPLACEMENT......9
VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR AND DRIVE
PINION...............................11
BACK-UP LAMP SWITCH...................12CROSSOVER LEVER......................12
SELECTOR LEVER.......................12
AXLE SHAFT SEALS......................13
SHIFT SHAFT SEALS......................13
TRANSAXLE............................14
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY
TRANSAXLE............................18
INPUT SHAFT...........................31
OUTPUT SHAFT.........................36
DIFFERENTIAL..........................36
SYNCHRONIZER.........................41
SHIFT RAILS OVERHAUL..................42
TRANSAXLE CASE OVERHAUL..............42
CLEANING AND INSPECTION
TRANSAXLE............................48
SYNCHRONIZER.........................48
ADJUSTMENTS
GEARSHIFT CROSSOVER CABLE...........49
BEARING ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE........50
DIFFERENTIAL BEARING PRELOAD
ADJUSTMENT..........................50
SPECIFICATIONS
NV T350 (A-578) SPECIFICATIONS...........51
SPECIAL TOOLS
NV T350 (A-578) MANUAL TRANSAXLE........52
GENERAL INFORMATION
NV T350 (A578) MANUAL TRANSAXLE
The NV T350 (A-578) transaxle is a fully synchro-
nized (except reverse), constant-mesh transaxle. The
transaxle case is constructed of die-cast aluminum,
and is a two-piece design (bell housing case half and
rear housing case half) with a steel end plate bearing
cover. All forward gears are in constant-mesh witheach other, which eliminates the need to move gears
together for engagement. This feature improves
response and eliminates gear ªclashº noises. The
reverse idler gear is supported and rotates on a spin-
dle idler shaft. Depending on application, a reverse
gear brake/blocking ring is available on some units
for shifting ease.
The NV T350 (A-578) transaxle also incorporates an
open differential, which converts power from the output
shaft pinion gear to the differential ring gear. The dif-
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 1

ENGINE 2.0 SOHC EUROPE AND
U. S.1.8 BUX or 2.0L SALES
CODE ACR1.8 RIGHT HAND DRIVE
ONLY
GEAR
1st 3.54 3.54 3.54
2nd 2.13 2.13 2.13
3rd 1.36 1.36 1.36
4th 1.03 1.03 1.03
5th 0.72 0.81 0.81
FINAL DRIVE 3.55 3.94 3.94
REVERSE BRAKE NO YES YES
CLUTCH RELEASE
SYSTEMCABLE CABLE HYDRAULIC
GEARSHIFT PATTERN
The NV T350 (A-578) transaxle shift pattern is a
modified H±pattern (Fig. 2). Overdrive fifth and
reverse gears are in±line and outboard of the first
through fourth gear positions.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
COMMON PROBLEM CAUSES
The majority of transaxle malfunctions are a result
of:
²Insufficient lubrication
²Incorrect lubricant
²Misassembled or damaged internal components
²Improper operation
HARD SHIFTING
Hard shifting may be caused by a misadjusted
crossover cable. If hard shifting is accompanied by
gear clash, synchronizer clutch and stop rings, or
gear teeth may be worn or damaged.Misassembled synchronizer components also cause
shifting problems. Incorrectly installed synchronizer
sleeves, struts, or springs can cause shift problems.
NOISY OPERATION
Before removing a transaxle to diagnose and repair
a noisy condition, verify the correct level and type of
fluid is installed in the transaxle. Abnormal wear
and damage to the internal components is frequently
the end result of insufficient/improper lubricant.
Refer to Fluid Requirements in this group.
Transaxle noise is most often a result of worn or
damaged components. Chipped, pitted, spalled and
broken gears or synchronizer teeth can cause noise.
Brinnelled or spalled bearings will generate noise.
Improperly assembled (missing, loose, or improp-
erly installed parts, etc) transaxles are likely to gen-
erate abnormal noise.
Squealing noises are commonly caused by defective
clutch release bearings and the reverse brake (if
equipped). Inspect the bearing cage and reverse cone
for signs of heat damage.
Gear rattle, gear clash, hard shifts, and premature
clutch disc wear can result from misalignment of the
transmission to the engine. Inspect for excessive
clutch dust in the clutch housing and oblonged
(mushroomed) dowel holes.
SLIPS OUT OF GEAR
Transaxle disengagement may be caused by mis-
aligned or damaged shift components, manufacturing
burrs on the gear teeth, or worn teeth on the drive
gears or synchronizer components. Incorrect assem-
bly, such as missing snap rings, also causes gear dis-
engagement.
Fig. 2 NV T350 (A-578) Shift Pattern
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 3
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)

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.
FLUID LEAKS
Fluid leaks can occur around the input shaft seal,
axleshaft seals, case split lines, and the end cover. Be
careful not to misdiagnose an input shaft seal leak
for an engine rear main seal leak. Also, the transaxle
case sealer (split line) will accumulate dirt and look
like an oil leak.
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.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
FLUID DRAIN AND FILL
All NV T350 (A-578) transaxles are equipped with
a fill plug. The fill plug is located on the left side of
the transaxle differential area (Fig. 3). The fluid level
should be within 3/16 inch from the bottom of the
transaxle fill hole (vehicle must be level when check-
ing).All NV T350 (A-578) transaxles are equipped with
a drain plug. The drain plug is located on the lower
right side of the transaxle differential housing (Fig.
4). Tighten drain plug to 28 N´m (250 in. lbs.)
Dry fill lubricant capacity is approximately 1.9-2.2
liters (4.0-4.6 pints). Wipe the outside of the tran-
saxle if any lubricant spills.
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
GEARSHIFT KNOB
REMOVAL
(1)Pull shifter boot down and away from shifter knob.
(2) Push down on knob and rotate clockwise to
remove (Fig. 5).
Fig. 3 Fill Plug Location
1 ± RUBBER FILL PLUG
2 ± LEFT DRIVESHAFT SEAL
Fig. 4 Drain Plug Location
1 ± RIGHT DRIVESHAFT SEAL
2 ± DRAIN PLUG
Fig. 5 Gearshift Knob Removal
1 ± GEARSHIFT KNOB
21 - 4 TRANSAXLEPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)