Ground terminals DODGE RAM 2001 Service Owner's Guide

INTERMITTENT AND POOR CONNECTIONS
Most intermittent electrical problems are caused
by faulty electrical connections or wiring. It is also
possible for a sticking component or relay to cause a
problem. Before condemning a component or wiring
assembly, check the following items.
²Connectors are fully seated
²Spread terminals, or terminal push out
²Terminals in the wiring assembly are fully
seated into the connector/component and locked into
position
²
Dirt or corrosion on the terminals. Any amount of
corrosion or dirt could cause an intermittent problem
²Damaged connector/component casing exposing
the item to dirt or moisture
²Wire insulation that has rubbed through causing
a short to ground
²Some or all of the wiring strands broken inside
of the insulation
²Wiring broken inside of the insulation
TROUBLESHOOTING WIRING PROBLEMS
When troubleshooting wiring problems there are
six steps which can aid in the procedure. The steps
are listed and explained below. Always check for non-
factory items added to the vehicle before doing any
diagnosis. If the vehicle is equipped with these items,
disconnect them to verify these add-on items are not
the cause of the problem.
(1) Verify the problem.
(2) Verify any related symptoms. Do this by per-
forming operational checks on components that are
in the same circuit. Refer to the wiring diagrams.
(3) Analyze the symptoms. Use the wiring dia-
grams to determine what the circuit is doing, where
the problem most likely is occurring and where the
diagnosis will continue.
(4) Isolate the problem area.
(5) Repair the problem area.
(6) Verify the proper operation. For this step,
check for proper operation of all items on the
repaired circuit. Refer to the wiring diagrams.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TESTING FOR
VOLTAGE POTENTIAL
(1) Connect the ground lead of a voltmeter to a
known good ground (Fig. 5).
(2) Connect the other lead of the voltmeter to the
selected test point. The vehicle ignition may need to
be turned ON to check voltage. Refer to the appropri-
ate test procedure.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TESTING FOR
CONTINUITY
(1) Remove the fuse for the circuit being checked
or, disconnect the battery.
(2) Connect one lead of the ohmmeter to one side
of the circuit being tested (Fig. 6)
(3) Connect the other lead to the other end of the
circuit being tested. Low or no resistance means good
continuity.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TESTING FOR A
SHORT TO GROUND
(1) Remove the fuse and disconnect all items
involved with the fuse.
(2) Connect a test light or a voltmeter across the
terminals of the fuse.
(3) Starting at the fuse block, wiggle the wiring
harness about six to eight inches apart and watch
the voltmeter/test lamp.
(4) If the voltmeter registers voltage or the test
lamp glows, there is a short to ground in that gen-
eral area of the wiring harness.
Fig. 4 PROBING TOOL
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6801
2 - PROBING END
Fig. 5 TESTING FOR VOLTAGE POTENTIAL
8W - 01 - 6 8W-01 WIRING DIAGRAM INFORMATIONBR/BE
WIRING DIAGRAM INFORMATION (Continued)

(5) Install the cigar lighter knob and element into
the cigar lighter receptacle base, or the protective cap
into the power outlet receptacle base.
(6) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
CIRCUIT BREAKER
DESCRIPTION
An automatic resetting circuit breaker in the junc-
tion block is used to protect the system from a short
circuit, or from an overload condition caused by an
obstructed or stuck seat adjuster.
The circuit breaker cannot be repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS & TESTING - CIRCUIT BREAKER
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, refer to Wir-
ing Diagrams.
(1) Locate the correct circuit breaker in the junc-
tion block. Pull out the circuit breaker slightly, but
be certain that the circuit breaker terminals still con-
tact the terminals in the junction block cavities.
(2) Connect the negative lead of a 12-volt DC volt-
meter to a good ground.
(3) With the voltmeter positive lead, check both
terminals of the circuit breaker for battery voltage.
If only one terminal has battery voltage, the circuit
breaker is faulty and must be replaced. If neither ter-
minal has battery voltage, repair the open circuit
from the Power Distribution Center (PDC) as
required.
GENERATOR CARTRIDGE
FUSE
DESCRIPTION
A 140 ampere generator cartridge fuse is used on
this model. The generator cartridge fuse is similar to
other cartridge fuses found in the Power Distribution
Center (PDC). This fuse has a color-coded plastic
housing and a clear plastic fuse conductor inspection
cover like other cartridge fuses, but has a higher cur-
rent rating and is connected and secured with screws
instead of being pushed onto male spade-type termi-
nals. The generator cartridge fuse cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The generator cartridge fuse is secured between
the two B(+) terminal stud connection bus bars
within the Power Distribution Center (PDC). This
fuse protects the vehicle electrical system from dam-
age that could be caused by excessive charging sys-
tem output and/or excessive electrical system currentlevels resulting from a faulty generator or faulty
charging system control circuits. If the current rating
of the fuse is exceeded, the fuse conductor melts to
open the generator output circuit connection to the
PDC. If a generator cartridge fuse fails, be certain to
completely inspect and test the vehicle charging sys-
tem before replacing the fuse and returning the vehi-
cle to service. Refer toCharging Systemin the
index of this service manual for the charging system
diagnostic procedures. Refer toPower Distribution
in the index of this service manual for the location of
complete PDC circuit diagrams.
REMOVAL
If a generator cartridge fuse fails, be certain to
inspect and test the vehicle charging system before
replacing the cartridge fuse and returning the vehicle
to service. Refer toCharging Systemin the index of
this service manual for the charging system diagnos-
tic procedures.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Unlatch and remove the cover from the Power
Distribution Center (PDC).
(3) Remove the two screws that secure the genera-
tor cartridge fuse to the two B(+) terminal stud bus
bars within the PDC.
(4) Remove the generator cartridge fuse from the
PDC.
INSTALLATION
If a generator cartridge fuse fails, be certain to
inspect and test the vehicle charging system before
replacing the cartridge fuse and returning the vehicle
to service. Refer toCharging Systemin the index of
this service manual for the charging system diagnos-
tic procedures.
(1) Position the generator cartridge fuse onto the
two B(+) terminal stud bus bars within the PDC.
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the generator cartridge fuse to the two B(+) terminal
stud bus bars within the PDC. Tighten the screws to
3.4 N´m (30 in. lbs.).Be certain that both screws
are tightened to the proper torque value.
(3) Install and latch the cover onto the PDC.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
IOD FUSE
DESCRIPTION
All vehicles are equipped with an Ignition-Off
Draw (IOD) fuse (Fig. 3) that is disconnected within
the Junction Block (JB) when the vehicle is shipped
from the factory. Dealer personnel are to reconnect
the IOD fuse in the JB as part of the preparation
8W - 97 - 4 8W-97 POWER DISTRIBUTIONBR/BE
CIGAR LIGHTER OUTLET (Continued)

(5) Install new plastic tie strap (Fig. 28) to secure
sensor pigtail harness to side of engine block. Thread
tie strap through casting hole on cylinder block.
FUEL PUMP RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The 5±pin, 12±volt, fuel pump relay is located in
the Power Distribution Center (PDC). Refer to the
label on the PDC cover for relay location.
OPERATION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) energizes
the electric fuel pump through the fuel pump relay.
The fuel pump relay is energized by first applying
battery voltage to it when the ignition key is turned
ON, and then applying a ground signal to the relay
from the PCM.
Whenever the ignition key is turned ON, the elec-
tric fuel pump will operate. But, the PCM will shut-
down the ground circuit to the fuel pump relay in
approximately 1±3 seconds unless the engine is oper-
ating or the starter motor is engaged.
REMOVAL
The fuel pump relay is located in the Power Distri-
bution Center (PDC) (Fig. 31). Refer to label on PDC
cover for relay location.
(1) Remove PDC cover.
(2) Remove relay from PDC.
(3) Check condition of relay terminals and PDC
connector terminals for damage or corrosion. Repair
if necessary before installing relay.
(4) Check for pin height (pin height should be the
same for all terminals within the PDC connector).
Repair if necessary before installing relay.
INSTALLATION
The fuel pump relay is located in the Power Distri-
bution Center (PDC) (Fig. 31). Refer to label on PDC
cover for relay location.
(1) Install relay to PDC.
(2) Install cover to PDC.
IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
The IAC stepper motor is mounted to the throttle
body, and regulates the amount of air bypassing the
control of the throttle plate. As engine loads and
ambient temperatures change, engine rpm changes.
A pintle on the IAC stepper motor protrudes into a
passage in the throttle body, controlling air flow
through the passage. The IAC is controlled by the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to maintain the
target engine idle speed.
OPERATION
At idle, engine speed can be increased by retract-
ing the IAC motor pintle and allowing more air to
pass through the port, or it can be decreased by
restricting the passage with the pintle and diminish-
ing the amount of air bypassing the throttle plate.
The IAC is called a stepper motor because it is
moved (rotated) in steps, or increments. Opening the
IAC opens an air passage around the throttle blade
which increases RPM.
The PCM uses the IAC motor to control idle speed
(along with timing) and to reach a desired MAP dur-
ing decel (keep engine from stalling).
The IAC motor has 4 wires with 4 circuits. Two of
the wires are for 12 volts and ground to supply electri-
cal current to the motor windings to operate the step-
per motor in one direction. The other 2 wires are also
for 12 volts and ground to supply electrical current to
operate the stepper motor in the opposite direction.
To make the IAC go in the opposite direction, the
PCM just reverses polarity on both windings. If only
1 wire is open, the IAC can only be moved 1 step
(increment) in either direction. To keep the IAC
motor in position when no movement is needed, the
PCM will energize both windings at the same time.
This locks the IAC motor in place.
In the IAC motor system, the PCM will count
every step that the motor is moved. This allows the
PCM to determine the motor pintle position. If the
memory is cleared, the PCM no longer knows the
position of the pintle. So at the first key ON, the
PCM drives the IAC motor closed, regardless of
where it was before. This zeros the counter. From
this point the PCM will back out the IAC motor and
keep track of its position again.
Fig. 31 Power Distribution Center (PDC)
1 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER (PDC)
BR/BEFUEL INJECTION - GASOLINE 14 - 41
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

FUEL INJECTOR
DESCRIPTION
A separate fuel injector (Fig. 51) is used for each
individual cylinder.
OPERATION
The fuel injectors are electrical solenoids. The
injector contains a pintle that closes off an orifice at
the nozzle end. When electric current is supplied to
the injector, the armature and needle move a short
distance against a spring, allowing fuel to flow out
the orifice. Because the fuel is under high pressure, a
fine spray is developed in the shape of a pencil
stream. The spraying action atomizes the fuel, add-
ing it to the air entering the combustion chamber.
An individual fuel injector is used for each individ-
ual cylinder. The top (fuel entry) end of the injector is
attached into an opening on the fuel rail.
The nozzle (outlet) ends of the injectors are posi-
tioned into openings in the intake manifold just above
the intake valve ports of the cylinder head. The engine
wiring harness connector for each fuel injector is
equipped with an attached numerical tag (INJ 1, INJ 2
etc.). This is used to identify each fuel injector.
The injectors are energized individually in a
sequential order by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM will adjust injector pulse width by
switching the ground path to each individual injector
on and off. Injector pulse width is the period of time
that the injector is energized. The PCM will adjust
injector pulse width based on various inputs it
receives.
Battery voltage is supplied to the injectors through
the ASD relay.
The PCM determines injector pulse width based on
various inputs.
OPERATION - PCM OUTPUT
The nozzle ends of the injectors are positioned into
openings in the intake manifold just above the intake
valve ports of the cylinder head. The engine wiring
harness connector for each fuel injector is equipped
with an attached numerical tag (INJ 1, INJ 2 etc.).
This is used to identify each fuel injector with its
respective cylinder number.
The injectors are energized individually in a
sequential order by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM will adjust injector pulse width by
switching the ground path to each individual injector
on and off. Injector pulse width is the period of time
that the injector is energized. The PCM will adjust
injector pulse width based on various inputs it
receives.
Battery voltage (12 volts +) is supplied to the injec-
tors through the ASD relay. The ASD relay will shut-
down the 12 volt power source to the fuel injectors if
the PCM senses the ignition is on, but the engine is
not running. This occurs after the engine has not
been running for approximately 1.8 seconds.
The PCM determines injector on-time (pulse width)
based on various inputs.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FUEL INJECTOR
TEST
To perform a complete test of the fuel injectors and
their circuitry, use the DRB scan tool and refer to the
appropriate Powertrain Diagnostics Procedures man-
ual. To test the injector only, refer to the following:
Disconnect the fuel injector wire harness connector
from the injector. The injector is equipped with 2
electrical terminals (pins). Place an ohmmeter across
the terminals. Resistance reading should be approxi-
mately 12 ohms61.2 ohms at 20ÉC (68ÉF).
REMOVAL
(1) Remove air cleaner assembly.
(2) Remove fuel injector rail assembly. Refer to
Fuel Injector Rail removal in this section.
(3) Remove the clip(s) retaining the injector(s) to
fuel rail (Fig. 30) or (Fig. 31).
(4) Remove injector(s) from fuel rail.
INSTALLATION
(1) Apply a small amount of engine oil to each fuel
injector o-ring. This will help in fuel rail installation.
(2) Install injector(s) and injector clip(s) to fuel
rail.
(3) Install fuel rail assembly. Refer to Fuel Injector
Rail installation.
(4) Install air cleaner.
(5) Start engine and check for leaks.
Fig. 51 Fuel Injector
1 - FUEL INJECTOR
2 - NOZZLE
3 - TOP (FUEL ENTRY)
BR/BEFUEL INJECTION - GASOLINE 14 - 53

Voltage to operate the fuel heater element is sup-
plied from the ignition switch, through the fuel
heater relay (also refer to Fuel Heater Relay), to the
fuel temperature sensor and on to the fuel heater ele-
ment.
The heater element operates on 12 volts, 300 watts
at 0 degrees F. As temperature increases, power
requirements decrease.
A minimum of 7 volts is required to operate the
fuel heater. The resistance value of the heater ele-
ment is less than 1 ohm (cold) and up to 1000 ohms
warm.
TESTING
(1) Disconnect electrical connector at sensor (Fig.
10).
Turn key to ON position. 12 volts should be
present at red wire. If not, check fuel heater relay
and related wiring. Refer to Relay TestÐFuel Heater.
If OK, proceed.
Turn key OFF. Check black wire in connector for
ground continuity with an ohmmeter. If continuity is
not present, correct open ground circuit. This test can
also be performed with a voltmeter by backprobing
black wire with it connected to sensor. Reconnect
electrical connector and turn key ON. Voltage drop
should not exceed 2 volts (2 volts lower than checked
at 12V+ connector). If voltage is lower, check for dirtyor corroded ground connection and repair. If OK, pro-
ceed.
(2) With electrical connector disconnected at sen-
sor and key OFF, check electrical/mechanical opera-
tion of fuel temperature sensor. Proceed to next step:
(3) Using an ohmmeter, check for continuity across
two terminals in electrical connector at side of sen-
sor. Sensor circuit should be open if fuel temperature
has risen above 75 degrees68 degrees F. Sensor cir-
cuit should be closed if fuel temperature has dropped
below 45 degrees68 degrees F. If not, replace fuel
heater assembly. This same test can also be per-
formed using a voltmeter, with key ON, and by back-
probing connector.
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
The fuel heater/element/sensor assembly is located
inside of the fuel filter housing. Refer to Fuel Filter/
Water Separator Removal/Installation for procedures.
FUEL HEATER RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The fuel heater relay is located in Power Distribu-
tion Center (PDC) (Fig. 11). Refer to label on inside
of PDC cover for relay location.
OPERATION
Battery voltage to operate the fuel heater element
is supplied from the ignition switch through the fuel
heater relay.The fuel heater element and fuel
heater relay are not computer controlled.
Fig. 10 Fuel Heater Location
1 - FUEL HEATER AND TEMP. SENSOR
2 - FUEL FILTER/WATER SEPARATOR
3 - FUEL HEATER ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
Fig. 11 Power Distribution Center Location
1 - CLIP
2 - BATTERY
3 - TRAY
4 - NEGATIVE CABLE
5 - POSITIVE CABLE
6 - CLIP
7 - FENDER INNER SHIELD
8 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
BR/BEFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 63
FUEL HEATER (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FUEL HEATER
RELAY
The fuel heater relay is located in the Power Dis-
tribution Center (PDC). Refer to label under PDC
cover for relay location.
To test the fuel heater, refer to Fuel Heater Test.
To test the heater relay only, refer to following:
The relay terminal numbers from (Fig. 12) can be
found on the bottom of the relay.
²Terminal number 30 is connected to battery volt-
age and can be switched or B+ (hot) at all times.
²The center terminal number 87A is connected (a
circuit is formed) to terminal 30 in the de-energized
(normally OFF) position.
²Terminal number 87 is connected (a circuit is
formed) to terminal 30 in the energized (ON) posi-
tion. Terminal number 87 then supplies battery volt-
age to the component being operated.
²Terminal number 86 is connected to a switched
(+) power source.
²Terminal number 85 is grounded by the power-
train control module (PCM).
TESTING
(1) Remove relay before testing.
(2) Using an ohmmeter, perform a resistance test
between terminals 85 and 86. Resistance value
(ohms) should be 7565 ohms for resistor equipped
relays.
(3) Connect the ohmmeter between terminals num-
ber 87A and 30. Continuity should be present at this
time.
(4) Connect the ohmmeter between terminals num-
ber 87 and 30. Continuity should not be present at
this time.
(5) Use a set of jumper wires (16 gauge or small-
er). Connect one jumper wire between terminal num-
ber 85 (on the relay) to the ground side (-) of a 12
Volt power source.
(6) Attach the other jumper wire to the positive
side (+) of a 12V power source. Do not connect this
jumper wire to relay at this time.
Fig. 12 Relay Terminals
14 - 64 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELBR/BE
FUEL HEATER RELAY (Continued)

overdrive piston retainer. Center hole in gasket is
smaller than retainer and cannot be installed over
retainer.
(7) Position overdrive piston retainer on transmis-
sion case and align bolt holes in retainer, gasket and
case (Fig. 188). Then install and tighten retainer
bolts to 17 N´m (13 ft. lbs.) torque.
(8) Install new seals on over drive piston.
(9) Stand transmission case upright on bellhous-
ing.
(10) Position Guide Ring 8114-1 on outer edge of
overdrive piston retainer.
(11) Position Seal Guide 8114-2 on inner edge of
overdrive piston retainer.
(12) Install overdrive piston in overdrive piston
retainer by: aligning locating lugs on overdrive piston
to the two mating holes in retainer.
(a) Aligning locating lugs on overdrive piston to
the two mating holes in retainer.
(b) Lubricate overdrive piston seals with Mopart
Door Ease, or equivalent.
(c) Install piston over Seal Guide 8114-2 and
inside Guide Ring 8114-1.
(d) Push overdrive piston into position in
retainer.
(e) Verify that the locating lugs entered the lug
bores in the retainer.NOTE: Install the remaining transmission compo-
nents and the overdrive unit.
PARK/NEUTRAL POSITION
SWITCH
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PARK/NEUTRAL
POSITION SWITCH
The center terminal of the park/neutral position
switch is the starter-circuit terminal. It provides the
ground for the starter solenoid circuit through the
selector lever in PARK and NEUTRAL positions only.
The outer terminals on the switch are for the backup
lamp circuit.
SWITCH TEST
To test the switch, remove the wiring connector.
Test for continuity between the center terminal and
the transmission case. Continuity should exist only
when the transmission is in PARK or NEUTRAL.
Shift the transmission into REVERSE and test
continuity at the switch outer terminals. Continuity
should exist only when the transmission is in
REVERSE. Continuity should not exist between the
outer terminals and the case.
Check gearshift linkage adjustment before replac-
ing a switch that tests faulty.
Fig. 187 Installing/Aligning Case Gasket
1 - CASE GASKET
2 - BE SURE GOVERNOR TUBE FEED HOLES IN CASE AND
GASKET ARE ALIGNED
Fig. 188 Aligning Overdrive Piston Retainer
1 - PISTON RETAINER
2 - GASKET
3 - RETAINER BOLTS
BR/BEAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 237
OVERRUNNING CLUTCH CAM/OVERDRIVE PISTON RETAINER (Continued)

NOTE: Install the remaining transmission compo-
nents and the overdrive unit.
PARK/NEUTRAL POSITION
SWITCH
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PARK/NEUTRAL
POSITION SWITCH
The center terminal of the park/neutral position
switch is the starter-circuit terminal. It provides the
ground for the starter solenoid circuit through the
selector lever in PARK and NEUTRAL positions only.
The outer terminals on the switch are for the backup
lamp circuit.
SWITCH TEST
To test the switch, remove the wiring connector.
Test for continuity between the center terminal and
the transmission case. Continuity should exist only
when the transmission is in PARK or NEUTRAL.
Shift the transmission into REVERSE and test
continuity at the switch outer terminals. Continuity
should exist only when the transmission is in
REVERSE. Continuity should not exist between the
outer terminals and the case.
Check gearshift linkage adjustment before replac-
ing a switch that tests faulty.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle and position drain pan under
switch.
(2) Disconnect switch wires.
(3) Remove switch from case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Move shift lever to PARK and NEUTRAL posi-
tions. Verify that switch operating lever fingers are
centered in switch opening in case (Fig. 187).
(2) Install new seal on switch and install switch in
case. Tighten switch to 34 N´m (25 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Test continuity of new switch with 12V test
lamp.
(4) Connect switch wires and lower vehicle.
(5) Top off transmission fluid level.
PISTONS
DESCRIPTION
There are several sizes and types of pistons used in
an automatic transmission. Some pistons are used to
apply clutches, while others are used to apply bands.
They all have in common the fact that they are
round or circular in shape, located within a smooth
walled cylinder, which is closed at one end and con-
verts fluid pressure into mechanical movement. The
fluid pressure exerted on the piston is contained
within the system through the use of piston rings or
seals.
Fig. 186 Aligning Overdrive Piston Retainer
1 - PISTON RETAINER
2 - GASKET
3 - RETAINER BOLTS
Fig. 187 Park/Neutral Position Switch
1 - NEUTRAL CONTACT
2 - MANUAL LEVER AND SWITCH PLUNGER IN REVERSE
POSITION
3 - PARK CONTACT
4 - SWITCH
21 - 408 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 44REBR/BE
OVERRUNNING CLUTCH CAM/OVERDRIVE PISTON RETAINER (Continued)

(18) Position Seal Guide 8114-3 on inner edge of
overdrive piston retainer.
(19) Install overdrive piston in overdrive piston
retainer by: aligning locating lugs on overdrive piston
to the two mating holes in retainer.
(a) Aligning locating lugs on overdrive piston to
the two mating holes in retainer.
(b) Lubricate overdrive piston seals with Mopart
Door Ease, or equivalent.
(c) Install piston over Seal Guide 8114-3 and
inside Guide Ring 8114-1.
(d) Push overdrive piston into position in
retainer.
(e) Verify that the locating lugs entered the lug
bores in the retainer.
PARK/NEUTRAL POSITION
SWITCH
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PARK/NEUTRAL
POSITION SWITCH
The center terminal of the park/neutral position
switch is the starter-circuit terminal. It provides the
ground for the starter solenoid circuit through the
selector lever in PARK and NEUTRAL positions only.
The outer terminals on the switch are for the backup
lamp circuit.
SWITCH TEST
To test the switch, remove the wiring connector.
Test for continuity between the center terminal and
the transmission case. Continuity should exist only
when the transmission is in PARK or NEUTRAL.
Shift the transmission into REVERSE and test
continuity at the switch outer terminals. Continuity
should exist only when the transmission is in
REVERSE. Continuity should not exist between the
outer terminals and the case.
Check gearshift linkage adjustment before replac-
ing a switch that tests faulty.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle and position drain pan under
switch.
(2) Disconnect switch wires.
(3) Remove switch from case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Move shift lever to PARK and NEUTRAL posi-
tions. Verify that switch operating lever fingers are
centered in switch opening in case (Fig. 196).
(2) Install new seal on switch and install switch in
case. Tighten switch to 34 N´m (25 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Test continuity of new switch with 12V test
lamp.
(4) Connect switch wires and lower vehicle.
(5) Top off transmission fluid level.
Fig. 195 Aligning Overdrive Piston Retainer
1 - PISTON RETAINER
2 - GASKET
3 - RETAINER BOLTS
Fig. 196 Park/Neutral Position Switch
1 - NEUTRAL CONTACT
2 - MANUAL LEVER AND SWITCH PLUNGER IN REVERSE
POSITION
3 - PARK CONTACT
4 - SWITCH
BR/BEAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 583
OVERRUNNING CLUTCH CAM/OVERDRIVE PISTON RETAINER (Continued)

PARK/NEUTRAL POSITION
SWITCH
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PARK/NEUTRAL
POSITION SWITCH
The center terminal of the park/neutral position
switch is the starter-circuit terminal. It provides the
ground for the starter solenoid circuit through the
selector lever in PARK and NEUTRAL positions only.
The outer terminals on the switch are for the backup
lamp circuit.
SWITCH TEST
To test the switch, remove the wiring connector.
Test for continuity between the center terminal and
the transmission case. Continuity should exist only
when the transmission is in PARK or NEUTRAL.
Shift the transmission into REVERSE and test
continuity at the switch outer terminals. Continuity
should exist only when the transmission is in
REVERSE. Continuity should not exist between the
outer terminals and the case.
Check gearshift linkage adjustment before replac-
ing a switch that tests faulty.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle and position drain pan under
switch.
(2) Disconnect switch wires.
(3) Remove switch from case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Move shift lever to PARK and NEUTRAL posi-
tions. Verify that switch operating lever fingers are
centered in switch opening in case (Fig. 188).
(2) Install new seal on switch and install switch in
case. Tighten switch to 34 N´m (25 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Test continuity of new switch with 12V test
lamp.
(4) Connect switch wires and lower vehicle.
(5) Top off transmission fluid level.
PISTONS
DESCRIPTION
There are several sizes and types of pistons used in
an automatic transmission. Some pistons are used to
apply clutches, while others are used to apply bands.
They all have in common the fact that they are
round or circular in shape, located within a smooth
walled cylinder, which is closed at one end and con-
verts fluid pressure into mechanical movement. The
fluid pressure exerted on the piston is contained
within the system through the use of piston rings or
seals.
OPERATION
The principal which makes this operation possible
is known as Pascal's Law. Pascal's Law can be stated
as: ªPressure on a confined fluid is transmitted
equally in all directions and acts with equal force on
equal areas.º
Fig. 188 Park/Neutral Position Switch
1 - NEUTRAL CONTACT
2 - MANUAL LEVER AND SWITCH PLUNGER IN REVERSE
POSITION
3 - PARK CONTACT
4 - SWITCH
BR/BEAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 47RE 21 - 755