automatic transmission fluid DODGE NEON 2000 Service Repair Manual

JUMP STARTING, TOWING, AND HOISTING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE...............7
TOWING RECOMMENDATIONS...............7
HOISTING RECOMMENDATIONS.............7SERVICE PROCEDURES
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE...............7
TOWING RECOMMENDATIONS...............8
HOISTING RECOMMENDATIONS.............9
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
Describes the procedure for starting a disable vehi-
cle.
TOWING RECOMMENDATIONS
Describes the recommended towing procedures.
HOISTING RECOMMENDATIONS
Describes the location of hoisting and jacking
points so that the vehicle can be lifted by a floor jack
or hoist.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
WARNING: REVIEW ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
AND WARNINGS IN GROUP 8A, BATTERY/START-
ING/CHARGING SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICS. DO NOT
JUMP START A FROZEN BATTERY, PERSONAL
INJURY CAN RESULT. DO NOT JUMP START WHEN
MAINTENANCE FREE BATTERY INDICATOR DOT IS
YELLOW OR BRIGHT COLOR. DO NOT JUMP
START A VEHICLE WHEN THE BATTERY FLUID IS
BELOW THE TOP OF LEAD PLATES. DO NOT
ALLOW JUMPER CABLE CLAMPS TO TOUCH
EACH OTHER WHEN CONNECTED TO A BOOSTER
SOURCE. DO NOT USE OPEN FLAME NEAR BAT-
TERY. REMOVE METALLIC JEWELRY WORN ON
HANDS OR WRISTS TO AVOID INJURY BY ACCI-
DENTAL ARCING OF BATTERY CURRENT. WHEN
USING A HIGH OUTPUT BOOSTING DEVICE, DO
NOT ALLOW BATTERY VOLTAGE TO EXCEED 16
VOLTS. REFER TO INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED
WITH DEVICE BEING USED.
CAUTION: When using another vehicle as a
booster, do not allow vehicles to touch. Electrical
systems can be damaged on either vehicle.
TO JUMP START A DISABLED VEHICLE:
(1) Raise hood on disabled vehicle and visually
inspect engine compartment for:
²Battery cable clamp condition, clean if necessary.
²Frozen battery.
²Yellow or bright color test indicator, if equipped.
²Low battery fluid level.
²Generator drive belt condition and tension.
²Fuel fumes or leakage, correct if necessary.
CAUTION: If the cause of starting problem on dis-
abled vehicle is severe, damage to booster vehicle
charging system can result.
(2) When using another vehicle as a booster
source, park the booster vehicle within cable reach.
Turn off all accessories, set the parking brake, place
the automatic transmission in PARK or the manual
transmission in NEUTRAL and turn the ignition
OFF.
(3) On disabled vehicle, place gear selector in park
or neutral and set park brake. Turn off all accesso-
ries.
(4) Connect jumper cables to booster battery. RED
clamp to positive terminal (+). BLACK clamp to neg-
ative terminal (-). DO NOT allow clamps at opposite
end of cables to touch, electrical arc will result.
Review all warnings in this procedure.
(5) On disabled vehicle, connect RED jumper cable
clamp to positive (+) terminal. Connect BLACK
jumper cable clamp to engine ground as close to the
ground cable attaching point as possible (Fig. 1).
(6) Start the engine in the vehicle which has the
booster battery, let the engine idle a few minutes,
then start the engine in the vehicle with the dis-
charged battery.
CAUTION: Do not crank starter motor on disabled
vehicle for more than 15 seconds, starter will over-
heat and could fail.
(7) Allow battery in disabled vehicle to charge to
at least 12.4 volts (75% charge) before attempting to
start engine. If engine does not start within 15 sec-
PLLUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 7

(10) Radiator can now be lifted free from engine
compartment.Care should be taken not to dam-
age radiator cooling fins or water tubes during
removal.
INSTALLATION
(1) Slide radiator down into position behind radia-
tor support (yoke).
(2) Attach air conditioning condenser to radiator, if
equipped (Fig. 25), with four mounting screws.
Tighten screws to 5.4 N´m (50 in. lbs.). Then seat the
radiator assembly lower rubber isolators into the
mounting holes provided in the lower crossmember.
(3) Install and tighten radiator isolator mounting
bracket screws to 10 N´m (90 in. lbs.) (Fig. 24). The
radiator should have clearance to move up, approxi-
mately 5±8 mm (0.20±0.31 in.) after assembled.
(4) Install lower radiator hose. Align the hose and
position the clamp so it will not interfere with engine
components.
(5) Connect automatic transmission hoses, if
equipped. Tighten hose clamps to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(6) Slide fan module down into clip(s) on lower
radiator flange (Fig. 23). Install retaining screws and
tighten to 7.5 N´m (65 in. lbs.).
(7) Connect the cooling fan motor electrical connec-
tor.
(8) Install upper radiator hose. Align the hose and
position the clamp so they will not interfere with the
engine or the hood.
(9) Connect negative cable to battery.
(10) Fill cooling system with coolant. Refer to pro-
cedure in this section.
(11) Operate engine until it reaches normal operat-
ing temperature. Check cooling system and auto-
matic transmission for correct fluid levels.
RADIATOR DRAINCOCK
REMOVAL
(1) Turn the drain cock stem counterclockwise to
unscrew the stem. When the stem is unscrewed to
the end of the threads, pull the stem (Fig. 26) from
the radiator tank.
INSTALLATION
(1) Push the draincock assembly body into the
tank opening.
(2) Tighten the draincock stem by turning clock-
wise to 2.0-2.7 N´m (18-25 in. lbs.).
COOLING FAN MODULE
All models use a single speed electric motor driven
cooling system fan. The fan module includes a motor,
fan blade, and support shroud. The module is fas-
tened to the radiator by screws.
REMOVAL
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE CYLINDER
BLOCK PLUG OR THE RADIATOR DRAINCOCK
WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE
BECAUSE SERIOUS BURNS FROM COOLANT CAN
OCCUR.
(1) Disconnect negative cable from battery.
(2) Drain cooling system below upper radiator hose
level. Refer to procedure in this section.
(3) Remove upper radiator hose from radiator (Fig.
27).
(4) Disconnect fan module electrical connector.
(5) Remove fan module screws from radiator (Fig.
28).
(6) Lift fan shroud up and out of lower shroud
attachment clips.
(7) Refer to Disassembly and Assembly in this sec-
tion for fan module sub-component service proce-
dures.
Fig. 25 A/C Condenser to Radiator Mounting Screws
1 ± AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSER TO RADIATOR
MOUNTING SCREWS
2 ± LOWER ISOLATOR MOUNTS
Fig. 26 Draincock
1 ± DRAIN COCK BODY
2 ± DRAIN COCK HOUSING
7 - 22 COOLING SYSTEMPL
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

reduces the power required to drive the pump and
holds down temperature build-up.
When steering conditions exceed maximum pres-
sure requirements, such as when the wheels are
turned against the stops, the pressure built up in the
steering gear exerts pressure on the spring end of the
flow control valve. The high pressure lifts the relief
valve ball from its seat and allows oil to flow through
a trigger orifice located in the outlet fitting. This
reduces pressure on the spring end of the flow con-
trol valve which then opens and allows the oil to
return to the intake side of the pump. This action
limits maximum pressure output of the pump to a
safe level.
Under normal power steering pump operating con-
ditions, pressure requirements of the pump are below
maximum, causing the pressure relief valve to
remain closed.
POWER STEERING FLUID RESERVOIR
The power steering fluid reservoir is mounted on
the power steering pump using 3 bolts (Fig. 1). It
stores fluid for the power steering system.
The power steering fluid reservoir is considered an
integral part of the power steering pump and is not
serviced separately.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
POWER STEERING PUMP INITIAL OPERATION
CAUTION: The fluid level should be checked with
engine off to prevent injury from moving compo-
nents. Use only MoparTPower Steering Fluid. Do
not use automatic transmission fluid. Do not over-
fill.
Wipe the filler cap clean, then check the fluid level.
The dipstick should indicateCOLDwhen the fluid is
at normal temperature, approximately 21ÉC to 27ÉC
(70ÉF to 80ÉF).
(1) Fill the power steering fluid reservoir to the
proper level and let the fluid settle for at least two
minutes.
(2) Start the engine and let run for a few seconds,
then turn the engine off.
(3) Add fluid if necessary. Repeat the above proce-
dure until the fluid level remains constant after run-
ning the engine.
(4) Raise the front wheels off the ground.
(5) Start the engine. Slowly turn the steering
wheel right and left, lightly contacting the wheel
stops.
(6) Add power steering fluid if necessary.
(7) Lower the vehicle and turn the steering wheel
slowly from lock to lock.(8) Stop the engine. Check the fluid level and refill
as required.
(9) If the fluid is extremely foamy, allow the vehi-
cle to stand a few minutes and repeat the above pro-
cedure.
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
WARNING: POWER STEERING FLUID, ENGINE
PARTS AND EXHAUST SYSTEM MAY BE
EXTREMELY HOT IF ENGINE HAS BEEN RUNNING.
DO NOT START ENGINE WITH ANY LOOSE OR DIS-
CONNECTED HOSES. DO NOT ALLOW HOSES TO
TOUCH HOT EXHAUST MANIFOLD OR CATALYST.
WARNING: FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE CHECKED
WITH THE ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT PERSONAL
INJURY FROM MOVING PARTS.
CAUTION: When the system is open, cap all open
ends of the hoses, power steering pump fittings or
power steering gear ports to prevent entry of for-
eign material into the components.
NOTE: Do not use any type of automatic transmis-
sion fluid in the power steering system.
POWER STEERING PUMP
NOTE: Before proceeding with this removal and
installation procedure, review SERVICE WARNINGS
AND CAUTIONS at the beginning of REMOVAL AND
INSTALLATION in this section.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove battery cable from the negative post on
the battery.
(2) Siphon as much fluid as possible from the
power steering fluid reservoir.
(3) Remove the power steering pump drive belt
from the power steering pump pulley. Refer to
ACCESSORY DRIVE BELTS in the COOLING SYS-
TEM service manual group for the required removal
and installation procedure.
(4) Remove the hose clamp securing the return
hose to the power steering fluid reservoir. Slide the
hose off the end of the reservoir fitting. (Fig. 2).
(5) Back out the tube nut securing the power
steering fluid pressure hose to the power steering
pump and remove the hose from the pump (Fig. 2).
PLSTEERING 19 - 17
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

ferential case transfers torque from the ring gear to the
drive axles by means of differential side gears.
The NV T350 (A-578) transaxle internal components
can only be serviced by separating the case halves.
CAUTION: The transaxle output shaft is serviced as
a unit. No disassembly and reassembly is possible.
Damage to the transaxle may result.
TRANSAXLE IDENTIFICATION
The transaxle model, part number, build sequence
and date are shown on a bar code label that is
attached to the front of the transaxle. This informa-
tion is also shown on a metal I.D. tag that is
attached to the end cover of the transaxle (Fig. 1).
NOTE: Transaxles use various final drive gear
ratios in different vehicle applications. Therefore, it
is necessary that the correct transaxle assembly
number is used when ordering service parts.
NOTE: There are three different versions of this
transaxle. There are no external differences
between the models. Refer to the identification tag
on the transaxle to determine which transaxle the
vehicle is equipped with.
FLUID REQUIREMENTS
NV T350 (A-578) transaxles use MopartManual
Transaxle Lubricant (MS-9417).Hypoid gear lube,
engine oil, and/or automatic transmission fluid
should not be used in this transaxle.Hard shift-
ing effort, bearing, gear, and/or synchronizer failure
may occur if incorrect fluid is used.
SPECIAL ADDITIVES
The addition of any fluids to the transaxle, other
than the fluid listed above, is not recommended. An
exception to this policy is the use of special dyes to
aid in detecting fluid leaks. The use of transmission
sealers should be avoided, since they may adversely
affect seals.
SEALANTS
The sealant used to seal the transaxle case halves
and input bearing is MopartGasket Maker, Loctitet
518, or equivalent. The sealant used for the bearing
end plate cover is MopartRTV.
GEAR RATIOS
CAUTION: All gears and shafts must not be inter-
changed with other transaxles; they will not func-
tion correctly.The differential is a conventional arrangement of
gears that is supported by tapered roller bearings.
The final output gear turns the ring gear and differ-
ential assembly, thereby turning the drive axle
shafts.
All transaxles have a torque capacity of 136 lb. ft.
The gear ratios of each transaxle are shown in the
following chart. The chart also shows which transax-
les are available with the reverse±input shaft brake.
This brake allows easier shifting into reverse and
helps eliminate reverse gear clash.
Fig. 1 NV T350 (A-578) Transaxle Identification
1 ± LAST 3 DIGITS OF PART #
2 ± DATE CODE
3 ± PRODUCTION LINE SEQUENCE CODE
4 ± FULL PART #
5 ± END COVER
6 ± METAL TAG
7 ± NVG MODEL #
8 ± LABEL
21 - 2 TRANSAXLEPL
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)

31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION
IN VEHICLE SERVICE.....................55
FLUID REQUIREMENTS...................55
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
31TH GENERAL INFORMATION..............55
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION..............56
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH.............56
HYDRAULIC CONTROL SYSTEM.............56
PRESSURE SUPPLY SYSTEM...............56
PRESSURE REGULATING VALVES...........56
FLOW CONTROL VALVES..................56
CLUTCHES, BAND SERVOS, AND
ACCUMULATOR........................57
BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
SYSTEM..............................57
GEARSHIFT AND PARKING LOCK CONTROLS . . 57
COOLER BYPASS VALVE..................57
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH SOLENOID
WIRING CONNECTOR...................58
GOVERNOR.............................58
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
TRANSAXLE PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS.......58
ROAD TEST.............................65
HYDRAULIC PRESSURE TESTS.............66
CLUTCH AND SERVO AIR PRESSURE TESTS . . 68
FLUID LEAKAGE-TRANSAXLE TORQUE
CONVERTER HOUSING AREA.............70
BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK....70
SERVICE PROCEDURES
TRANSAXLE FLUID AND FILTER SERVICE.....70
ALUMINUM THREAD REPAIR...............71
FLUSHING COOLERS AND TUBES...........72
OIL PUMP VOLUME CHECK................72
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
GEARSHIFT CABLE.......................73
GEARSHIFT MECHANISM..................76
THROTTLE VALVE (KICKDOWN) CABLE.......77
BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
CABLE...............................79
INTERLOCK MECHANISM..................82
VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR PINION GEAR......83
PARK/NEUTRAL STARTING AND BACK-UP
LAMP SWITCH.........................84TRANSAXLE AND TORQUE CONVERTER......84
PUMP OIL SEAL.........................88
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY
TRANSAXLE............................89
VALVE BODY............................91
OIL PUMP.............................104
FRONT CLUTCH........................105
REAR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY................108
FRONT PLANETARY AND ANNULUS
GEAR-RECONDITION...................110
LOW/REVERSE (REAR) SERVO-
RECONDITION........................112
ACCUMULATOR-RECONDITION............113
KICKDOWN SERVO (CONTROLLED LOAD)-
RECONDITION........................113
TRANSFER SHAFT REPAIR................114
PARKING PAWL.........................121
OUTPUT SHAFT REPAIR..................121
DIFFERENTIAL REPAIR...................129
CLEANING AND INSPECTION
VALVE BODY...........................135
ADJUSTMENTS
GEARSHIFT CABLE......................135
THROTTLE VALVE CABLE ADJUSTMENT
PROCEDURE.........................136
BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
SYSTEM.............................137
BAND ADJUSTMENT.....................138
HYDRAULIC CONTROL PRESSURE
ADJUSTMENTS.......................138
BEARING ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES......138
OUTPUT SHAFT BEARING................139
DIFFERENTIAL BEARING.................139
TRANSFER SHAFT BEARING..............140
SCHEMATICS AND DIAGRAMS
31TH TRANSAXLE HYDRAULIC SCHEMATIC . . 142
SPECIFICATIONS
31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE.............150
31TH TRANSAXLE TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . 150
SPECIAL TOOLS
31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE.............151
21 - 54 TRANSAXLEPL

GENERAL INFORMATION
IN VEHICLE SERVICE
The following components are serviceable in the
vehicle without transaxle removal:
²Valve Body Assembly
²Converter Clutch Solenoid
²Governor
²Vehicle Speed Sensor & Pinion
²Park/Neutral & Back-up Lamp Switch
²Transfer Gears and Transfer Shaft
²Low/Reverse Servo
²Kickdown Servo
²Accumulator
FLUID REQUIREMENTS
NOTE: The transmission and differential have a
common oil sump with an opening between the
two.
TRANSMISSION/DIFFERENTIAL
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid
Type 9602) is required in this transaxle. Substitute
fluids must meet fluid specification MS-9602.
FLUID ADDITIVES
Chrysler Corporation strongly recommends against
the addition of any fluids to the transmission, other
than those automatic transmission fluids listed
above. Exceptions to this policy are the use of special
dyes to aid in detecting fluid leaks.
Various ªspecialº additives and supplements exist
that claim to improve shift feel/quality and converter
clutch operation, inhibit overheating, oxidation, var-
nish and sludge. These claims have not been sup-
ported to Chrysler's satisfaction and these additives
must not be used. The use of transmission ªsealersº
should also be avoided, since they may adversely
affect the integrity of tranmission seals.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
31TH GENERAL INFORMATION
NOTE: Safety goggles should be worn at all times
when working on these transaxles.
This transaxle combines torque converter, three
speed transmission, final drive gearing, and differen-
tial into a front wheel drive system.
NOTE: Transaxle operation requirements are differ-
ent for each vehicle and engine combination. Some
internal parts will be different to provide for this.Therefore, when replacing parts, refer to the seven
digit part number stamped on rear of the transaxle
oil pan flange.
Within this transaxle, there are three primary
areas:
(1) Main center line plus valve body.
(2) Transfer shaft center line (includes governor
and parking sprag).
(3) Differential center line.
Center distances between the main rotating parts
in these three areas are held precise to maintain a
low noise level.
The torque converter, transaxle area, and differen-
tial are housed in an integral aluminum die casting.
The differential oil sump is common with the
transaxle sump. Separate filling of the differen-
tial is NOT necessary.
The torque converter is attached to the crankshaft
through a flexible driving plate. Cooling of the con-
verter is accomplished by circulating the transaxle
fluid through a remote cooler. There are two types of
coolers used. An oil-to-water type cooler located in
the radiator side tank and/or an oil-to-air heat
exchanger. The torque converter assembly is a sealed
unit that cannot be disassembled.
The transaxle fluid is filtered by an internal filter
attached to the lower side of the valve body assembly.
Engine torque is transmitted to the torque con-
verter and then through the input shaft to multiple-
disc clutches in the transaxle. The power flow
depends on the application of the clutches and bands.
Refer to Elements in Use Chart in Diagnosis and
Tests section.
The transaxle consists of:
²Two multiple-disc clutches
²An overrunning clutch
²Two servos
²A hydraulic accumulator
²Two bands
²Two planetary gear sets
This provides three forward ratios and a reverse
ratio. The common sun gear of the planetary gear
sets is connected to the front clutch by a driving
shell. The driving shell is splined to the sun gear and
front clutch retainer. The hydraulic system consists
of an oil pump and a single valve body which con-
tains all of the valves except the governor valves.
The transaxle sump and differential sump are both
vented through the dipstick. Output torque from the
main center line is delivered through helical gears to
the transfer shaft. This gear set is a factor in the
transaxle final drive (axle) ratio. The shaft also car-
ries the governor and parking sprag. An integral heli-
cal gear on the transfer shaft drives the differential
ring gear.
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 55

FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION
NOTE: The transmission and differential sump have
a common oil sump with a communicating opening
between the two.
The torque converter fills in both the P (Park) and
N (Neutral) positions. Place the selector lever in P
(Park) to be sure that the fluid level check is accu-
rate.The engine should be running at idle
speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle
on level ground. This will ensure complete oil
level stabilization between differential and
transmission.The fluid should be at normal operat-
ing temperature (approximately 82É C. or 180É F.).
The fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region
(cross-hatched area) on the dipstick (Fig. 1).
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 will build up slowly.
Improper filling also can raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
that occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, the air bubbles can cause overheat-
ing, fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can inter-
fere with normal valve, clutch, and servo operation.
Foaming also can result in fluid escaping from the
transaxle dipstick, where it may be mistaken for a
leak.
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
or is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle overhaul is needed.
Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely.
If there is any doubt about its condition, remove the
oil pan and inspect.
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH
A torque converter clutch is standard on all vehi-
cles. The torque converter clutch is activated only in
direct drive and is controlled by the engine electron-
ics. A solenoid on the valve body, is powered by the
powertrain control module to activate the torque con-
verter clutch.
HYDRAULIC CONTROL SYSTEM
The hydraulic control system makes the transaxle
fully automatic, and has four important functions to
perform. The components of any automatic control
system may be grouped into the following basic
groups:
²Pressure supply system
²Pressure regulating valves
²Flow control valves
²Clutches
²Band servos
Taking each of these basic groups or systems in
turn, the control system may be described as follows:
PRESSURE SUPPLY SYSTEM
The pressure supply system consists of an oil pump
driven by the engine through the torque converter.
The single pump furnishes pressure for all hydraulic
and lubrication requirements.Oil pump housing
assemblies are available with preselected pump
gears.
PRESSURE REGULATING VALVES
The pressure regulating valve controls line pres-
sure dependent on throttle opening. The governor
valve transmits regulated pressure to the valve body
(in conjunction with vehicle speed) to control upshift
and downshift.
The throttle valve transmits regulated pressure to
the transaxle (dependent on throttle position) to con-
trol upshift and downshift.
FLOW CONTROL VALVES
The manual valve provides the different transaxle
drive ranges selected by the vehicle operator.
The 1-2 shift valve automatically shifts the tran-
saxle from first to second or from second to first,
depending on the vehicle operation.
The 2-3 shift valve automatically shifts the tran-
saxle from second to third or from third to second
depending on the vehicle operation.
Fig. 1 Transaxle Dipstick
1 ± TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
21 - 56 TRANSAXLEPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (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 following
operation 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.
BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
The following chart describes the normal operation
of the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) sys-
tem. If the ªexpected responseº differs from the vehi-
cle's response, then system repair and/or adjustment
is necessary. Refer to Brake Transmission Interlock
Removal and Installation or Adjustment in this
Group.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
TRANSAXLE FLUID AND FILTER SERVICE
NOTE: Refer to Group 0, Lubrication and Mainte-
nance, or the vehicle owner's manual, for the rec-
ommended maintenance (fluid/filter change)
intervals for this transaxle.
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparT
ATF+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 (See Lubrication,
Group 0). Place a drain container with a large open-
ing, 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 and tighten retaining screws to 5 N´m (40
in. lbs.).
ACTION EXPECTED RESPONSE
1. Turn key to the ªOFFº
position.1. Shifter CAN be shifted
out of park.
2. Turn key to the
9ON/RUNº position.2. Shifter CANNOT be
shifted out of park.
3. Turn key to the
ªON/RUNº position and
depress the brake pedal.3. Shifter CAN be shifted
out of park.
4. Leave shifter in any
gear and try to return key
to the ªLOCKº or9ACCº
position.4. Key cannot be
returned to the ªLOCKº or
ªACCº position.
5. Return shifter to
ªPARKº and try to remove
the key.5. Key can be removed
(after returning to ªLOCKº
position).
6. With the key removed,
try to shift out of ªPARKº.6. Shifter cannot be
shifted out of ªPARKº.
NOTE: Any failure to meet these expected
responses requires system adjustment or repair.
21 - 70 TRANSAXLEPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

(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.
(7) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ªADDº mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 8).
(8) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.).
(9) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
ALTERNATIVE MAINTENANCE METHODS
TRANSAXLE FLUID EXCHANGER METHOD
CAUTION: The use of any fluid exchanger that
introduces additives into the transaxle is not rec-
ommended.
(1) To perform the transaxle fluid exchange, the
transaxle must be at operating temperature. Drive
the vehicle until it reaches full operating tempera-
ture.
(2) Obtain a suitable transaxle fluid exchanger
and verify the tank is clean and dry.
(3) Fill the tank to the recommended fill capacity
with MopartATF+4 Type 9602.
(4) Connect the machine to the vehicle 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 MopartATF+4 Type 9602. Refer
to Fluid Level and Condition Check in this group for
the proper fluid ªtop-offº procedure.
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) 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 ªADDº mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 8).
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.).
(10) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
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.
Fig. 8 Dipstick Markings
1 ± TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 71
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

FLUSHING COOLERS AND TUBES
When a transaxle failure has contaminated the
fluid, the transaxle oil cooler(s) must be flushed (both
radiator and remote). The cooler bypass valve in the
transaxle must be replaced also. The torque con-
verter 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 LIT 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 readingsand 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 MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission
Fluid) Type 9602.
(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 MopartATF+4
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type 9602. The vol-
ume should be checked using the following proce-
dure:
(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 MopartATF+4 (Automatic Trans-
mission Fluid) Type 9602.
(6) If fluid flow is still found to be inadequate,
check the line pressure using the Transaxle Hydrau-
lic Pressure Test procedure.
21 - 72 TRANSAXLEPL
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)