check engine DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - POWER STEERING
FLOW AND PRESSURE
The following procedure is used to test the opera-
tion of the power steering system on the vehicle. This
test will provide the gallons per minute (GPM) or
flow rate of the power steering pump along with the
maximum relief pressure. Perform test any time a
power steering system problem is present. This test
will determine if the power steering pump or power
steering gear is not functioning properly. The follow-
ing pressure and flow test is performed using Power
Steering Analyzer Tool kit 6815 and (Fig. 2) Adapter
Kit 6893.
FLOW AND PRESSURE TEST
(1) Check the power steering belt to ensure it is in
good condition and adjusted properly.
(2) Connect pressure gauge hose from the Power
Steering Analyzer to adapter 6826.
(3) Connect tube 6825A to Power Steering Ana-
lyzer test valve end.
(4) Disconnect the high pressure hose from the
power steering pump.
(5) Connect the tube 6825A to the pump fitting.
(6) Connect the power steering hose from the
steering gear to the adapter 6826.
(7) Open the test valve completely.
(8) Start engine and let idle long enough to circu-
late power steering fluid through flow/pressure test
gauge and to get air out of the fluid. Then shut off
engine.(9) Check fluid level, add fluid as necessary. Start
engine again and let idle.
(10) Gauge should read below 862 kPa (125 psi), if
above, inspect the hoses for restrictions and repair as
necessary. The initial pressure reading should be in
the range of 345-552 kPa (50-80 psi).
(11) Increase the engine speed to 1500 RPM and
read the flow meter. If the flow rate (GPM) is below
specification, (refer to pump specification chart for
GPM) the pump should be replaced.
CAUTION: The following test procedure involves
testing maximum pump pressure output and flow
control valve operation. Do not leave valve closed
for more than three seconds as the pump could be
damaged.
(12) Close valve fully three times and record high-
est pressure indicated each time.All three read-
ings must be above specifications and within
345 kPa (50 psi) of each other.
²Pressures above specifications but not within
345 kPa (50 psi) of each other, replace pump.
²Pressures within 345 kPa (50 psi) of each other
but below specifications, replace pump.
(13) Open the test valve and turn the steering
wheel to the extreme left and right positions three
times against the stops. Record the highest pressure
reading at each position. Compare readings to the
pump specifications chart. If pressures readings are
not within 50 psi of each other, the gear is leaking
internally and must be replaced.
CAUTION: Do not force the pump to operate against
the stops for more than 2 to 3 seconds at a time
because, pump damage will result.PUMP SPECIFICATION
ENGINERELIEF
PRESSURE  
65FLOW RATE
(GPM) AT 1500
RPM
1500 series11032 kPa
(1615   65 psi)3.1 - 3.5
2500 & 3500
series12400 kPa
(1800   50 psi)3.5 - 4.0
Fig. 2 Analyzer With Tube and Adapter
1 - TUBE
2 - ADAPTER FITTINGS
3 - ANALYZER
4 - GAUGE HOSE
19 - 4 STEERINGDR
STEERING (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PUMP LEAKAGE
The pump is serviced as an assembly and should
not be disassembled. The plastic pump reservoir and
the reservoir o-rings can be replaced.
Check for leaks in the following areas:
²Pump shaft seal behind the pulley
²Pump to reservoir O-ring
²Reservoir cap
²Pressure and return lines
²Flow control valve fitting
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER STEERING
PUMP - INITIAL OPERATION
WARNING: THE FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE
CHECKED WITH ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT INJURY
FROM MOVING COMPONENTS.
CAUTION: MOPARTATF+4 is to be used in the
power steering system. No other power steering or
automatic transmission fluid is to be used in the
system. Damage may result to the power steering
pump and system if any other fluid is used, and do
not overfill.
Wipe filler cap clean, then check the fluid level.
The dipstick should indicateCOLDwhen the fluid is
at normal temperature.(1) Turn steering wheel all the way to the left
(2) Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level
and let the fluid settle for at least two (2) minutes.
(3) Raise the front wheels off the ground.
(4) Slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock 20
times with the engine off while checking the fluid
level.
NOTE: For vehicles with long return lines or oil
coolers turn wheel 40 times.
(5) Start the engine. With the engine idling main-
tain the fluid level.
(6) Lower the front wheels and let the engine idle
for two minutes.
(7) Turn the steering wheel in both direction and
verify power assist and quiet operation of the pump.
If the fluid is extremely foamy or milky looking,
allow the vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat
the procedure.
CAUTION: Do not run a vehicle with foamy fluid for
an extended period. This may cause pump damage.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUSHING POWER
STEERING SYSTEM
Flushing is required when the power steering/hy-
draulic booster system fluid has become contami-
nated. Contaminated fluid in the steering/booster
system can cause seal deterioration and affect steer-
ing gear/booster spool valve operation.
(1) Raise the front end of the vehicle off the
ground until the wheels are free to turn.
(2) Remove the return line from the pump.
NOTE: If vehicle is equipped with a hydraulic
booster remove both return lines from the pump.
(3) Plug the return line port/ports at the pump.
(4) Position the return line/lines into a large con-
tainer to catch the fluid.
(5) While an assistant is filling the pump reservoir
start the engine.
(6) With the engine running at idle turn the wheel
back and forth.
NOTE: Do not contact or hold the wheel against the
steering stops.
(7) Run a quart of fluid through the system then
stop the engine and install the return line/lines.
(8) Fill the system with fluid and perform Steering
Pump Initial Operation, (Refer to 19 - STEERING/
PUMP - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(9) Start the engine and run it for fifteen minutes
then stop the engine.
Fig. 1 POWER STEERING PUMP
1 - 3.7L & 4.7L (6 GROOVE)
PHENOLIC (PLASTIC TYPE) PULLEY
1 - 5.7L,5.9L & 8.0L (7 GROOVE)
PHENOLIC (PLASTIC TYPE) PULLEY
1 - 5.9L DIESEL (8 GROOVE)
STEEL PULLEY
2 - PUMP ASSEMBLY
3 - RESERVOIR
4 - CAP
DRPUMP 19 - 39
PUMP (Continued)

(10) Remove the return line/lines from the pump
and plug the pump port/ports.
(11) Pour fresh fluid into the reservoir and check
the draining fluid for contamination. If the fluid is
still contaminated, then flush the system again.
(12) Install the return line/lines and perform
Steering Pump Initial Operation, (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/PUMP - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - GAS
(1) Drain and siphon the power steering fluid from
the reservoir.
(2) Remove the serpentine belt.
CAUTION: Do not remove the fitting on the pump
that the high pressure hose screws into. The fitting
may come loose unless it is backed up using
another wrench. If the fitting does come loose, it
must be retightened before continuing. (57 - 67Nm,
40 - 50 lbft) If this fitting comes out of the pump
body, the internal spring and valve parts will fall out
of the pump and they cannot be reinstalled prop-
erly. If this occurs the pump needs to be replaced
with a new pump.
(3) Disconnect the return hose. (Fig. 2)
(4) Disconnect the pressure hose. (Fig. 2)
(5) Access to remove the three bolts securing the
pump to the cylinder head can be gained thru the
pulley holes. (Fig. 2)
REMOVAL - DIESEL
(1) Drain and siphon the power steering fluid from
the reservoir.
(2) Remove the serpentine belt.
CAUTION: Do not remove the fitting on the pump
that the high pressure hose screws into. The fitting
may come loose unless it is backed up using
another wrench. If the fitting does come loose, it
must be retightened before continuing. (57 - 67Nm,
40 - 50 lbft) If this fitting comes out of the pump
body, the internal spring and valve parts will fall out
of the pump and they cannot be reinstalled prop-
erly. If this occurs the pump needs to be replaced
with a new pump.
(3) Disconnect the return hose.
(4) Disconnect the pressure hose.
(5) Access to remove the three bolts securing the
pump to the cylinder head can be gained thru the
pulley holes.
(6) Loosen the pump bracket to the block.
(7) Remove the 6 intake plenum bolts (Fig. 3).
(8) loosen the inner cooler tube clamp at the
intake plenum and remove the intake plenum.
(9) Loosen the inner cooler tube clamp at the radi-
ator support side and remove the tube from the vehi-
cle.
(10) Remove the power steering pump from the top
of the engine compartment where the intake plenum
was (Fig. 3).
Fig. 2 POWER STEERING PUMP
1 - POWER STEERING PULLEY
2 - POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
3 - RETURN HOSE
4 - HIGH PRESSURE HOSE
Fig. 3 POWER STEERING PUMP ACCESS
1 - INTAKE PLENUM MOUNTING
2 - POWER STEERING PUMP
19 - 40 PUMPDR
PUMP (Continued)

FLUID
DESCRIPTION
The recommended fluid for the power steering sys-
tem is MopartATF +4.
MopartATF+4, when new is red in color. The
ATF+4 is dyed red so it can be identified from other
fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or anti-
freeze. The red color is not permanent and is not an
indicator of fluid condition, As the vehicle is driven,
the ATF+4 will begin to look darker in color and may
eventually become brown.THIS IS NORMAL.
ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with
age. Consequently, odor and color cannot be used to
indicate the fluid condition or the need for a fluid
change.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER STEERING
FLUID LEVEL CHECKING
WARNING: FLUID LEVEL SHOULD BE CHECKED
WITH THE ENGINE OFF TO PREVENT PERSONAL
INJURY FROM MOVING PARTS.
CAUTION: MOPARTATF+4 is to be used in the
power steering system. No other power steering or
automatic transmission fluid is to be used in the
system. Damage may result to the power steering
pump and system if any other fluid is used, and do
not overfill.
The power steering fluid level can be viewed on the
dipstick attached to the filler cap. There are two
ranges listed on the dipstick, COLD and HOT. Before
opening power steering system, wipe the reservoir
filler cap free of dirt and debris. Remove the cap and
check the fluid level on its dipstick. When the fluid is
at normal ambient temperature, approximately 21ÉC
to 27ÉC (70ÉF to 80ÉF), the fluid level should read
between the minimum and maximum area of the cold
range. When the fluid is hot, fluid level is allowed to
read up to the highest end of the HOT range. Only
add fluid when the vehicle is cold.
Use only MopartATF+4Do not overfill the
power steering system.
FLUID COOLER
REMOVAL
(1) Drain and siphon the power steering fluid.
(2) Disconnect the return and supply hoses con-
nected to the power steering fluid cooler.(3) Remove the mounting bracket bolts securing
the fluid cooler to the brace. (Fig. 4)& (Fig. 5)
(4) Remove the fluid cooler from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the fluid cooler to the vehicle.
(2) Install the mounting bracket bolts securing the
fluid cooler to the brace (Fig. 4)& (Fig. 5).
(3) Reclamp the return and supply hoses to the
power steering fluid cooler.
(4) Refill the power steering fluid (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/PUMP - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
Fig. 4 V6 & V8 P/S FLUID COOLER
1 - POWER STEERING FLUID COOLER
2 - MOUNTING BOLTS
Fig. 5 V10 & DIESEL P/S FLUID COOLER
1 - RADIATOR
2 - POWER STEERING HOSES
3 - MOUNTING BOLTS
4 - P/S FLUID COOLER
19 - 42 PUMPDR

POWER STEERING PRESSURE
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
A pressure sensing switch is used in the power
steering system. It is mounted on the high-pressure
steering hose (Fig. 9). This switch will be used with
both 3.7L, 4.7L and 5.7L engines. There is no pres-
sure switch used for the 5.9L pump.
OPERATION
The switch is used on the 3.7L V-6, 4.7L & 5.7L
V-8 engines.
The power steering pressure switch provides an
input to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This
input is provided during periods of high steering
pump load and low engine rpm; such as during park-
ing maneuvers. The PCM increases the idle speed
through the Idle Air Control (IAC) motor. This is
done to prevent the engine from stalling under the
increased load.
When steering pump pressure exceeds 3275 kPa  
690 kPa (475 psi   100 psi), the Normally Closed
(NC) switch will open and the PCM will increase the
engine idle speed. This will prevent the engine from
stalling.
When pump pressure drops to approximately 1379
kPa (200 psi), the switch circuit will re-close and
engine idle speed will return to its previous setting.
REMOVAL - 3.7L, 4.7L & 5.7L
The power steering pressure switch is installed in
the power steering high-pressure hose (Fig. 9).
(1) Disconnect electrical connector from power
steering pressure switch.
(2) Place a small container or shop towel beneath
switch to collect any excess fluid.
(3) Remove switch. Use back-up wrench on power
steering line to prevent line bending.
INSTALLATION - 3.7L, 4.7L & 5.7L
This switch is used only with the 3.7L V±6 and the
4.7L, 5.7L V-8 engines.
(1) Install power steering switch into power steer-
ing line.
(2) Tighten to 8±11 N´m (70±100 in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Connect electrical connector to switch.
(4) Check power steering fluid and add as neces-
sary.
(5) Start engine and again check power steering
fluid. Add fluid if necessary.
PULLEY
REMOVAL
CAUTION: Do not reuse the old power steering
pump pulley it is not intended for reuse. A new pul-
ley must be installed if removed.
(1) Remove the power steering pump assembly,
(Refer to 19 - STEERING/PUMP - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the pulley from the pump with an
appropriate power steering pulley removal tool (Fig.
10).
Fig. 9 PRESSURE SWITCH
1 - POWER STEERING PULLEY
2 - POWER STEERING PUMP HOUSING
3 - POWER STEERING FLUID RESERVOIR
4 - RETURN HOSE
5 - HIGH PRESSURE HOSE WITH PRESSURE SWITCH
Fig. 10 PULLEY REMOVAL
1 - POWER STEERING PUMP
2 - PULLEY
3 - POWER STEERING PULLEY REMOVAL TOOL
DRPUMP 19 - 45

(21) Install and tighten bearing retainer bolts to
7-10 N´m (5-7 ft. lbs.) (Fig. 123).
SHIFT TOWER AND LEVER
(1) Apply petroleum jelly to ball end of shift lever
and interior of shift socket.
(2) Shift the transmission into third gear.
(3) Align and install shift tower and lever assem-
bly (Fig. 124). Be sure shift ball is seated in socket
and the offset in the tower is toward the passenger
side of the vehicle before installing tower bolts.
(4) Install shift tower bolts (Fig. 125) and tighten
bolts to 8.5 N´m (75.2 in. lbs.).
(5) Fill transmission to bottom edge of fill plug
hole with lubricant.
(6) Install and tighten fill plug to 34 N´m (25 ft.
lbs.).(7) Check transmission vent. Be sure vent is open
and not restricted.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If a new transmission is being installed, use
all components supplied with the new transmission.
For example, if a new shift tower is supplied, do not
re-use the original shift tower.
(1) Clean transmission front housing mounting
surface.
(2) Apply light coat of Mopar high temperature
bearing grease or equivalent to contact surfaces (Fig.
126) of following components:
²release fork ball stud.
²release bearing slide surface.
²input shaft splines.
²release bearing bore.
²propeller shaft slip yoke.
(3) Support and secure transmission to jack.
(4) Raise and align transmission input shaft with
clutch disc, then slide transmission into place.
(5) Verify front housing is fully seated. Install
transmission bolts without washers and tighten bolts
into the engine to 41 N´m (30 ft. lbs.). Tighten the
bolts with washers into the transmission to 68 N´m
(50 ft. lbs.) (Fig. 127).
(6) Install rear crossmember and tighten nuts to
102 N´m (75 ft. lbs.).
(7) Install transmission rear mounting bolts and
tighten to 68 N´m (50 ft. lbs.).
(8) Install front dust shield.
(9) Install structural dust cover and tighten the
bolts to 73 N´m (54 ft. lbs.).
(10) Install starter motor.
(11) Install suspension crossmember and tighten
nuts to 102 N´m (75 ft. lbs.).
Fig. 123 BEARING RETAINER BOLTS - TYPICAL
1 - RETAINER BOLTS
2 - RETAINER
Fig. 124 SHIFT TOWER
1 - SHIFT TOWER
2 - SHAFT SOCKET
3 - SHIFT BALL
Fig. 125 SHIFT TOWER BOLTS
1 - SHIFT TOWER AND LEVER ASSEMBLY
21 - 38 MANUAL TRANSMISSION - NV3500DR
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - NV3500 (Continued)

²release fork ball stud.
²propeller shaft slip yoke.
(2) Apply sealer to threads of bottom PTO cover
bolt and install bolt in case.
(3) Mount transmission on jack and position trans-
mission under vehicle.
(4) Raise transmission until input shaft is centered
in release bearing and clutch disc hub.
(5) Move transmission forward and start input
shaft in release bearing, clutch disc and pilot bush-
ing.
(6) Work transmission forward until seated against
clutch housing. Do not allow transmission to remain
unsupported after input shaft has entered clutch
disc.
(7) Install transmission bolts and tighten to 108
N´m (80 ft. lbs.).
(8) Install transmission mount on transmission or
rear crossmember.
(9) Install rear crossmember.
(10) Remove transmission jack and engine support
fixture.
(11) Position transmission harness wires in clips
on shift cover.
(12) Install clutch slave cylinder and install slave
cylinder shield, if equipped.
(13) Connect speed sensor and backup light switch
wires.
TWO WHEEL DRIVE
(1) Fill transmission with recommended lubricant.
Correct fill level is bottom edge of fill plug hole.
(2) Align and install propeller shaft.
(3) Lower vehicle.
(4) Clean the mating surfaces of shift tower, isola-
tor plate and shift cover with suitable wax and
grease remover.
(5) Apply Mopar Gasket Maker or equivalent to
the sealing surface of the shift cover. Do not over
apply sealant.
(6) Install the isolator plate onto the shift cover,
metal side down.
(7) Install the shift tower onto the isolator plate.
No sealant is necessary between the shift tower and
the isolator plate.
(8) Verify that the shift tower, isolator plate and
the shift tower bushings are properly aligned.
(9) Install the bolts to hold the shift tower to the
isolator plate and the shift cover. Tighten the shift
tower bolts to 10.2-11.25 N´m (7.5-8.3 ft. lbs.).
(10) Install the shift lever extension onto the shift
tower and lever assembly.
(11) Install shift boot and bezel.
(12) Connect battery negative cable.
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE
(1) Install transfer case shift mechanism on trans-
mission.
(2) Install transfer case on transmission jack.
Secure transfer case to jack with safety chains.
(3) Raise jack and align transfer case input gear
with transmission mainshaft.
(4) Move transfer case forward and seat it on
adapter.
(5) Install transfer case nuts and tighten to:
²If 3/8 studs 41-47 N´m (30-35 ft. lbs.).
²If 5/16 studs 30-41 N´m (22-30 ft. lbs.).
(6) Install transfer case shift mechanism to side of
transfer case.
(7) Connect transfer case shift lever to range lever
on transfer case.
(8) Align and connect propeller shafts.
(9) Fill transmission with required lubricant.
Check lubricant level in transfer case and add lubri-
cant if necessary.
(10) Install transfer case skid plate, if equipped
and crossmember. Tighten attaching bolts/nuts to 41
N´m (30 ft. lbs.).
(11) Install exhaust system components.
(12) Lower vehicle.
(13) Clean the mating surfaces of shift tower, iso-
lator plate and shift cover with suitable wax and
grease remover.
(14) Apply Mopar Gasket Maker or equivalent to
the sealing surface of the shift cover. Do not over
apply sealant.
(15) Install the isolator plate onto the shift cover,
metal side down.
(16) Install the shift tower onto the isolator plate.
No sealant is necessary between the shift tower and
the isolator plate.
(17) Verify that the shift tower, isolator plate and
the shift tower bushings are properly aligned.
(18) Install the bolts to hold the shift tower to the
isolator plate and the shift cover. Tighten the shift
tower bolts to 10.2-11.25 N´m (7.5-8.3 ft. lbs.).
(19) Install the shift lever extension onto the shift
tower and lever assembly.
(20) Install shift lever boot and bezel.
(21) Connect battery negative cable.
21 - 78 MANUAL TRANSMISSION - NV4500DR
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - NV4500 (Continued)

(14) Use Installer to install the reverse counter-
shaft bearing race into the extension/adapter hous-
ing.
(15) Install back-up lamp switch into the exten-
sion/adapter housing and tighten to 28 N´m (20
ft.lbs.).
(16) Install crossover cam into the extension/
adapter housing.
(17) Install bolt to hold the crossover cam to the
extension/adapter housing (Fig. 94).
(18) Install crossover detent plunger, spring and
plug into the extension/adapter housing. Tighten the
plug to 47.5 N´m (35 ft.lbs.) (Fig. 95).
(19) Apply sealer to the surface of the transmis-
sion case.(20) Install extension/adapter housing onto the
transmission case.
(21) Install bolts to hold the extension/adapter
housing onto the transmission gear case. Tighten
bolts to 48 N´m (35 ft.lbs.).
(22) Install shift rail blocker bolt and tighten bolt
to 55 N´m (41 ft.lbs.).
(23) Install primary shift rail detent plunger,
spring and plug into the transmission case. Tighten
detent plug to 47.5 N´m (35 ft.lbs.).
(24) Install shift tower onto the transmission case
and tighten bolts to 9 N´m (7 ft.lbs.).
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If installing a new transmission, use all com-
ponents supplied with the transmission. If a new
shift tower is supplied with the new transmission,
do not re-use the original shift tower.
(1) Apply a light coat of Mopar high temperature
bearing grease or equivalent to contact surfaces of
following components:
²input shaft splines.
²release bearing slide surface of front retainer.
²release bearing bore.
²release fork.
²release fork ball stud.
²propeller shaft slip yoke.
(2) Apply sealer to threads of bottom PTO cover
bolt and install bolt in case.
(3) Mount transmission on jack and position trans-
mission under vehicle.
(4) Raise transmission until input shaft is centered
in clutch disc hub.
(5) Move transmission forward and start input
shaft in clutch disc and pilot bushing/bearing.
(6) Work transmission forward until seated against
engine block. Do not allow transmission to remain
unsupported after input shaft has entered clutch
disc.
(7) Install and tighten transmission-to-engine
block bolts.
(8) Install clutch slave cylinder.
(9) Connect backup light switch wires.
(10) Position transmission harness wires in clips
on transmission.
(11) Install transmission mount on transmission or
rear crossmember.
(12) Install rear crossmember.
(13) Remove transmission jack and engine support
fixture.
(14) Fill transmission with required lubricant (Fig.
96). Check lubricant level in transfer case if
equipped.
Fig. 94 CROSSOVER CAM BOLT
1 - CROSSOVER CAM
2 - BOLT
3 - EXTENSION HOUSING
Fig. 95 CROSSOVER CAM DETENT PLUG
1 - DETENT PLUG
2 - EXTENSION HOUSING
21 - 120 MANUAL TRANSMISSION - NV5600DR
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - NV5600 (Continued)

FOURTH GEAR POWERFLOW
Fourth gear overdrive range is electronically con-
trolled and hydraulically activated. Various sensor
inputs are supplied to the powertrain control module
to operate the overdrive solenoid on the valve body.
The solenoid contains a check ball that opens and
closes a vent port in the 3-4 shift valve feed passage.
The overdrive solenoid (and check ball) are not ener-
gized in first, second, third, or reverse gear. The vent
port remains open, diverting line pressure from the
2-3 shift valve away from the 3-4 shift valve. The
overdrive control switch must be in the ON position
to transmit overdrive status to the PCM. A 3-4
upshift occurs only when the overdrive solenoid is
energized by the PCM. The PCM energizes the over-
drive solenoid during the 3-4 upshift. This causes the
solenoid check ball to close the vent port allowing
line pressure from the 2-3 shift valve to act directly
on the 3-4 upshift valve. Line pressure on the 3-4
shift valve overcomes valve spring pressure moving
the valve to the upshift position. This action exposes
the feed passages to the 3-4 timing valve, 3-4 quick
fill valve, 3-4 accumulator, and ultimately to the
overdrive piston. Line pressure through the timing
valve moves the overdrive piston into contact with
the overdrive clutch. The direct clutch is disengaged
before the overdrive clutch is engaged. The boost
valve provides increased fluid apply pressure to the
overdrive clutch during 3-4 upshifts, and when accel-
erating in fourth gear. The 3-4 accumulator cushions
overdrive clutch engagement to smooth 3-4 upshifts.
The accumulator is charged at the same time as
apply pressure acts against the overdrive piston.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
Automatic transmission problems can be a result of
poor engine performance, incorrect fluid level, incor-
rect linkage or cable adjustment, band or hydraulic
control pressure adjustments, hydraulic system mal-
functions or electrical/mechanical component mal-
functions. Begin diagnosis by checking the easily
accessible items such as: fluid level and condition,
linkage adjustments and electrical connections. A
road test will determine if further diagnosis is neces-
sary.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRELIMINARY
Two basic procedures are required. One procedure
for vehicles that are drivable and an alternate proce-
dure for disabled vehicles (will not back up or move
forward).
VEHICLE IS DRIVEABLE
(1) Check for transmission fault codes using DRBt
scan tool.
(2) Check fluid level and condition.
(3) Adjust throttle and gearshift linkage if com-
plaint was based on delayed, erratic, or harsh shifts.
(4) Road test and note how transmission upshifts,
downshifts, and engages.
(5) Perform hydraulic pressure test if shift prob-
lems were noted during road test.
(6) Perform air-pressure test to check clutch-band
operation.
VEHICLE IS DISABLED
(1) Check fluid level and condition.
(2) Check for broken or disconnected gearshift or
throttle linkage.
(3) Check for cracked, leaking cooler lines, or loose
or missing pressure-port plugs.
(4) Raise and support vehicle on safety stands,
start engine, shift transmission into gear, and note
following:
(a) If propeller shaft turns but wheels do not,
problem is with differential or axle shafts.
(b) If propeller shaft does not turn and transmis-
sion is noisy, stop engine. Remove oil pan, and
check for debris. If pan is clear, remove transmis-
sion and check for damaged drive plate, converter,
oil pump, or input shaft.
(c) If propeller shaft does not turn and transmis-
sion is not noisy, perform hydraulic-pressure test to
determine if problem is hydraulic or mechanical.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TESTING
Before road testing, be sure the fluid level and con-
trol cable adjustments have been checked and
adjusted if necessary. Verify that diagnostic trouble
codes have been resolved.
Observe engine performance during the road test.
A poorly tuned engine will not allow accurate analy-
sis of transmission operation.
Operate the transmission in all gear ranges. Check
for shift variations and engine flare which indicates
slippage. Note if shifts are harsh, spongy, delayed,
early, or if part throttle downshifts are sensitive.
Slippage indicated by engine flare, usually means
clutch, band or overrunning clutch problems. If the
condition is advanced, an overhaul will be necessary
to restore normal operation.
A slipping clutch or band can often be determined
by comparing which internal units are applied in the
various gear ranges. The Clutch and Band Applica-
tion chart provides a basis for analyzing road test
results.
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 139
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE (Continued)

Pressure Test Port Locations
Test ports are located at both sides of the transmis-
sion case (Fig. 9).
Line pressure is checked at the accumulator port
on the right side of the case. The front servo pressure
port is at the right side of the case just behind the
filler tube opening.
The rear servo and governor pressure ports are at
the right rear of the transmission case. The overdrive
clutch pressure port is at the left rear of the case.
Test One - Transmission In Manual Low
This test checks pump output, pressure regulation,
and condition of the rear clutch and servo circuit.
Both test gauges are required for this test.
(1) Connect tachometer to engine. Position tachom-
eter so it can be observed from driver seat if helper
will be operating engine. Raise vehicle on hoist that
will allow rear wheels to rotate freely.
(2) Connect 100 psi Gauge C-3292 to accumulator
port. Then connect 300 psi Gauge C-3293-SP to rear
servo port.(3) Disconnect throttle and gearshift cables from
levers on transmission valve body manual shaft.
(4) Have helper start and run engine at 1000 rpm.
(5) Move transmission shift lever fully forward
into 1 range.
(6) Gradually move transmission throttle lever
from full forward to full rearward position and note
pressures on both gauges:
²Line pressure at accumulator port should be
54-60 psi (372-414 kPa) with throttle lever forward
and gradually increase to 90-96 psi (621-662 kPa) as
throttle lever is moved rearward.
²Rear servo pressure should be same as line pres-
sure within 3 psi (20.68 kPa).
Test Two - Transmission In 2 Range
This test checks pump output, line pressure and
pressure regulation. Use 100 psi Test Gauge C-3292
for this test.
(1) Leave vehicle in place on hoist and leave Test
Gauge C-3292 connected to accumulator port.
(2) Have helper start and run engine at 1000 rpm.
(3) Move transmission shift lever one detent rear-
ward from full forward position. This is 2 range.
(4) Move transmission throttle lever from full for-
ward to full rearward position and read pressure on
gauge.
(5) Line pressure should be 54-60 psi (372-414
kPa) with throttle lever forward and gradually
increase to 90-96 psi (621-662 kPa) as lever is moved
rearward.
Test Three - Transmission In D Range Third Gear
This test checks pressure regulation and condition
of the clutch circuits. Both test gauges are required
for this test.
(1) Turn OD switch off.
(2) Leave vehicle on hoist and leave Gauge C-3292
in place at accumulator port.
(3) Move Gauge C-3293-SP over to front servo port
for this test.
(4) Have helper start and run engine at 1600 rpm
for this test.
(5) Move transmission shift lever two detents rear-
ward from full forward position. This is D range.
(6) Read pressures on both gauges as transmission
throttle lever is gradually moved from full forward to
full rearward position:
²Line pressure at accumulator in D range third
gear, should be 54-60 psi (372-414 kPa) with throttle
lever forward and increase as lever is moved rear-
ward.
²Front servo pressure in D range third gear,
should be within 3 psi (21 kPa) of line pressure up to
kickdown point.
Fig. 9 Pressure Test Port Locations
1 - REAR SERVO TEST PORT
2 - GOVERNOR TEST PORT
3 - ACCUMULATOR TEST PORT
4 - FRONT SERVO TEST PORT
5 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH TEST PORT
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 141
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE (Continued)