oil type DODGE RAM 2003 Service Manual Online

(Fig. 12) or (Fig. 13). Type-1 is tethered to fuel line
and type-2 is not. A special tool will be necessary to
disconnect fuel line after latch clip is removed. The
latch clip may be used on certain fuel line/fuel rail
connection, or to join fuel lines together.
(a) Type 1: Pry up on latch clip with a screw-
driver (Fig. 12).
(b) Type 2: Separate and unlatch 2 small arms
on end of clip (Fig. 13) and swing away from fuel
line.(c) Slide latch clip toward fuel rail while lifting
with screwdriver.
(d) Insert special fuel line removal tool (Snap-On
number FIH 9055-1 or equivalent) into fuel line
(Fig. 14). Use tool to release locking fingers in end
of line.
(e) With special tool still inserted, pull fuel line
from fuel rail.
(f)
After disconnection, locking fingers will remain
within quick-connect fitting at end of fuel line.
(10) Disconnect quick-connect fitting from fuel sys-
tem component being serviced.
CONNECTING
(1) Inspect quick-connect fitting body and fuel sys-
tem component for damage. Replace as necessary.
(2) Prior to connecting quick-connect fitting to
component being serviced, check condition of fitting
and component. Clean parts with a lint-free cloth.
Lubricate with clean engine oil.
(3) Insert quick-connect fitting into fuel tube or
fuel system component until built-on stop on fuel
tube or component rests against back of fitting.
(4) Continue pushing until a click is felt.
(5) Single-tab type fitting: Push new tab down
until it locks into place in quick-connect fitting.
(6) Verify a locked condition by firmly pulling on
fuel tube and fitting (15-30 lbs.).
(7) Latch Clip Equipped: Install latch clip (snaps
into position).If latch clip will not fit, this indi-
cates fuel line is not properly installed to fuel
rail (or other fuel line). Recheck fuel line con-
nection.
(8) Connect negative cable to battery.
(9) Start engine and check for leaks.
Fig. 12 LATCH CLIP-TYPE 1
1 - TETHER STRAP
2 - FUEL LINE
3 - SCREWDRIVER
4 - LATCH CLIP
5 - FUEL RAIL
Fig. 13 LATCH CLIP-TYPE 2
1 - LATCH CLIP
Fig. 14 FUEL LINE DISCONNECTION USING
SPECIAL TOOL
1 - SPECIAL FUEL LINE TOOL
2 - FUEL LINE
3 - FUEL RAIL
DRFUEL DELIVERY - GAS 14 - 11
QUICK CONNECT FITTING (Continued)

(4) Apply clean engine oilto injection pump
o-ring only.
The machined tapers on both injection pump
shaft and injection pump gear must be abso-
lutely dry, clean and free of any dirt or oil film.
This will ensure proper gear-to-shaft tighten-
ing.
(5) Clean pump gear and pump shaft at machined
tapers with an evaporative type cleaner such as
brake cleaner.
(6) Position injection pump to mounting flange on
gear cover while aligning injection pump shaft
through back of injection pump gear.
(7) After pump is positioned flat to mounting
flange, install 3 pump mounting nuts and tighten
finger tight only.Do not attempt a final tightening
at this time.Do not attempt to tighten (pull)
pump to gear cover using mounting nuts. Dam-
age to pump or gear cover may occur. The
pump must be positioned flat to its mounting
flange before attempting to tighten 3 mounting
nuts.
(8) To prevent damage or cracking of components,
install and tighten nuts in the following sequence:
(a) Install injection pump shaft washer and nut
to pump shaft. Tighten nutfinger tight only.
(b) Do preliminary (light) tightening of injection
pump shaft nut.
(c) Tighten 3 injection pump mounting nuts to 8
N´m (70.8 in. lbs.).
(d) Do a final tightening of pump shaft nut to
105 N´m (77 ft. lbs.).
(9) Install drive gear access cover (plate) using a
1/2 inch drive ratchet. Plate is threaded to timing
gear cover.
(10) Install Engine Control Module (ECM) to left
side of engine.
(11) Install fuel line (injection pump-to-overflow
valve). Tighten bolts to 24 N´m (17 ft. lbs.) torque.
(12) Install fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel rail).
Tighten to 24 N´m (17 ft. lbs.) torque.
(13) Install fuel line (injection pump-to-fuel filter
housing). Tighten to 24 N´m (17 ft. lbs.) torque.
(14) Connect Fuel Control Actuator (FCA) electri-
cal connector to rear of injection pump.
(15) Install intake manifold air intake tube (above
injection pump). Tighten clamps.
(16) Install accessory drive belt.
(17) Install cooling fan shroud.
(18) Install cooling fan assembly.
(19) Connect both negative battery cables to both
batteries.
(20) Check system for fuel or engine oil leaks.FUEL LEVEL SENDING UNIT /
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor) is
attached to the side of the fuel tank module. The
sending unit consists of a float, an arm, and a vari-
able resistor track (card).
OPERATION
The fuel tank module on diesel powered models
has 3 different circuits (wires). Two of these circuits
are used at the fuel gauge sending unit for fuel
gauge operation. The other wire is used for a ground.
The diesel engine does not have a fuel tank module
mounted electric fuel pump. The electric fuel pump
(fuel transfer pump) is mounted to the engine.
For Fuel Gauge Operation:A constant input
voltage source of about 12 volts (battery voltage) is
supplied to the resistor track on the fuel gauge send-
ing unit. This is fed directly from the Powertrain
Control Module (PCM).NOTE: For diagnostic pur-
poses, this 12V power source can only be veri-
fied with the circuit opened (fuel tank module
electrical connector unplugged). With the con-
nectors plugged, output voltages will vary from
about .6 volts at FULL, to about 7.0 volts at
EMPTY.The resistor track is used to vary the volt-
age (resistance) depending on fuel tank float level. As
fuel level increases, the float and arm move up,
which decreases voltage. As fuel level decreases, the
float and arm move down, which increases voltage.
The varied voltage signal is returned back to the
ECM through the sensor return circuit.
Both of the electrical circuits between the fuel
gauge sending unit and the ECM are hard-wired (not
multi-plexed). After the voltage signal is sent from
the resistor track, and back to the ECM, the ECM
will interpret the resistance (voltage) data and send
a message across the multi-plex bus circuits to the
instrument panel cluster. Here it is translated into
the appropriate fuel gauge level reading. Refer to
Instrument Panel for additional information.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
For diesel removal and installation procedures,
refer to the gas section of Fuel System/Fuel Delivery.
See Fuel Level Sending Unit/Sensor Removal/Instal-
lation.
14 - 68 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL INJECTION PUMP (Continued)

GEAR - LINK/COIL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
GEAR - LINK/COIL
DESCRIPTION.........................19
OPERATION...........................19
REMOVAL.............................19
INSTALLATION.........................20
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT........................20
SPECIFICATIONS
POWER STEERING GEAR..............21
TORQUE CHART......................22
SPECIAL TOOLS
POWER STEERING GEAR..............22
PITMAN SHAFT SEAL
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - GAS ENGINE...............23REMOVAL - DIESEL...................24
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - GAS ENGINE...........24
INSTALLATION - DIESEL................25
STEERING GEAR INPUT SHAFT SEAL
REMOVAL.............................25
INSTALLATION.........................28
PITMAN SHAFT
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - GAS......................29
REMOVAL - DIESEL...................30
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - GAS..................30
INSTALLATION - DIESEL................30
GEAR - LINK/COIL
DESCRIPTION
The power steering gear is a recirculating ball type
gear (Fig. 1). The gear ratio's used are 12.5:1.
OPERATION
The gear acts as a rolling thread between the
worm shaft and rack piston. The worm shaft is sup-
ported by a thrust bearing at the lower end and a
bearing assembly at the upper end. When the worm
shaft is turned from input from the steering column
the rack piston moves. The rack piston teeth mesh
with the pitman shaft. Turning the worm shaft, turns
the pitman shaft, which turns the steering linkage.
REMOVAL
(1) Place the front wheels in a straight-ahead posi-
tion.
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an
automatic transmission may not be equipped with
an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key
cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative meth-
ods of locking the steering wheel for service will
have to be used.
(2) Lock the steering wheel.
(3) Siphon out as much power steering fluid as
possible.
Fig. 1 STEERING GEAR
1 - INPUT SHAFT
2 - OUTLET
3 - INLET
4 - VALVE ASSEMBLY HOUSING
5 - PITMAN SHAFT COVER BOLTS
6 - STEERING GEAR
7 - MESHLOAD ADJUSTER NUT
8 - PITMAN SHAFT
DRGEAR - LINK/COIL 19 - 19

(1) Remove the steering gear from the vehicle
(Refer to 19 - STEERING/GEAR - REMOVAL).
(2) Mount the gear carefully into a soft-jawed vise.
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the vise on the gear
case. This may affect the adjustment
(3) Hold the steering gear upside down over a
drain pan and rotate the input shaft back and forth
several times lock-to-lock to discharge the fluid from
the steering gear
(4) Rotate the input shaft to the left stop and then
back-off approximately 45 degrees. Using an inch-
pound torque wrench on the input shaft, record the
peak torque required to slowly and evenly rotate the
input shaft clockwise
1¤2turn (180 degrees) starting
from the 45 degree position. This peak torque read-
ing is the preload torque. The preload torque must be
within2-10in-lbs.
(5) Rotate the input shaft to its center of travel
(approximately 1.5 turns from either stop). Place the
torque wrench on the input shaft with the handle in
the vertical position. Rotate the torque wrench slowly
and evenly
1¤4turn (90 degrees) each side of center
and record the peak torque measure on or near cen-
ter. This total on-center torque reading must be5-9
in-lbs higher than the previously measured preload
torque without exceeding a total of 17 in-lbs. The
value of the total on-center minus the preload torque
is defined as the meshload torque(6) If required, adjust the on-center torque by loos-
ening the adjuster screw lock nut and turning the
adjuster screw until the total on-center and meshload
torque readings fall within the specified values. Turn
the adjuster screw clockwise to increase and counter-
clockwise to decrease the torque reading. While hold-
ing the adjuster screw in place, tighten the lock nut
to 31 N´m (23 ft. lbs.).
(7) Re-check the preload and on-center torque
readings.
(8) Install pitman arm on the steering gear (Refer
to 19 - STEERING/LINKAGE/PITMAN ARM -
INSTALLATION).
(9) Reinstall steering gear to the vehicle (Refer to
19 - STEERING/GEAR - INSTALLATION).
SPECIFICATIONS
POWER STEERING GEAR
SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Steering Gear
TypeRecirculating Ball
Gear Code & Ratio 12.5:1
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Preload
Torque0.23-1.13 Ð 2-10
Meshload Torque 0.56-1.02 Ð 5-9
+ Preload (17 Max)
DRGEAR - LINK/COIL 19 - 21
GEAR - LINK/COIL (Continued)

PUMP
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
PUMP
DESCRIPTION.........................38
OPERATION...........................38
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PUMP LEAKAGE . 39
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER
STEERING PUMP - INITIAL OPERATION....39
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUSHING
POWER STEERING SYSTEM............39
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - GAS......................40
REMOVAL - DIESEL...................40
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - GAS..................41
INSTALLATION - DIESEL................41
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE CHART......................41
FLUID
DESCRIPTION.........................42
STANDARD PROCEDURE - POWER
STEERING FLUID LEVEL CHECKING......42
FLUID COOLER
REMOVAL.............................42
INSTALLATION.........................42
HOSES - I.F.S.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - RETURN HOSE - GEAR TO
COOLER............................43
REMOVAL - PRESSURE HOSE...........43
REMOVAL - RETURN HOSE - RESERVOIR
TO COOLER.........................43INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - RETURN HOSE - GEAR TO
COOLER............................43
INSTALLATION - PRESSURE HOSE.......43
INSTALLATION - RETURN HOSE -
RESERVOIR TO COOLER...............43
HOSES - LINK/COIL
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - RETURN HOSE - GEAR TO
COOLER............................43
REMOVAL - PRESSURE HOSE...........44
REMOVAL - RETURN HOSE - RESERVOIR
TO COOLER.........................44
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - RETURN HOSE - GEAR TO
COOLER............................44
INSTALLATION - PRESSURE HOSE.......44
INSTALLATION - RETURN HOSE -
RESERVOIR TO COOLER...............44
POWER STEERING PRESSURE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION.........................45
OPERATION...........................45
REMOVAL - 3.7L, 4.7L & 5.7L..............45
INSTALLATION - 3.7L, 4.7L & 5.7L..........45
PULLEY
REMOVAL.............................45
INSTALLATION.........................46
RESERVOIR
REMOVAL.............................46
INSTALLATION.........................46
PUMP
DESCRIPTION
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 pump is connected to the steering gear via the
pressure hose and the return hose. The pump shaft
has a pressed-on pulley that is belt driven by the
crankshaft pulley.All vehicles are equipped with a power steering
fluid cooler.
NOTE: Power steering pumps are not interchange-
able with pumps installed on other vehicles.
OPERATION
Hydraulic pressure is provided for the power steer-
ing gear by the belt driven power steering pump (Fig.
1). The power steering pumps are constant flow rate
and displacement, vane-type pumps.
19 - 38 PUMPDR

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)

NOTE: Do not use shop towels or rags to dry the
case (or any other transmission component) unless
they are made from lint-free materials. Lint will stick
to case surfaces and transmission components and
circulate throughout the transmission after assem-
bly. A sufficient quantity of lint can block fluid pas-
sages and interfere with valve body operation.
Lubricate transmission parts with MopartATF +4,
Automatic Transmission fluid during overhaul and
assembly. Use petroleum jelly to prelubricate seals,
O-rings, and thrust washers. Petroleum jelly can also
be used to hold parts in place during reassembly.
INSPECTION
Inspect the case for cracks, porous spots, worn
bores, or damaged threads. Damaged threads can be
repaired with Helicoil thread inserts. However, the
case will have to be replaced if it exhibits any type of
damage or wear.
Lubricate the front band adjusting screw threads
with petroleum jelly and thread the screw part-way
into the case. Be sure the screw turns freely.
Inspect the transmission bushings during overhaul.
Bushing condition is important as worn, scored bush-
ings contribute to low pressures, clutch slip and
accelerated wear of other components. However, do
not replace bushings as a matter of course. Replace
bushings only when they are actually worn, or
scored.
Use recommended tools to replace bushings. The
tools are sized and designed to remove, install, and
seat bushings correctly. The bushing replacement
tools are included in Bushing Tool Set C-3887-B.Pre-sized service bushings are available for
replacement purposes. Only the sun gear bushings
are not serviced.
The use of crocus cloth is permissible where neces-
sary, providing it is used carefully. When used on
shafts, or valves, use extreme care to avoid rounding
off sharp edges. Sharp edges are vital as they pre-
vent foreign matter from getting between the valve
and valve bore.
Do not reuse oil seals, gaskets, seal rings, or
O-rings during overhaul. Replace these parts as a
matter of course. Also do not reuse snap rings or
E-clips that are bent or distorted. Replace these parts
as well.
ASSEMBLY
Do not allow dirt, grease, or foreign material to
enter the case or transmission components during
assembly. Keep the transmission case and compo-
nents clean. Also make sure the tools and workbench
area used for reassembly operations are equally
clean.
Shop towels used for wiping off tools and your
hands must be made fromlint freematerials. Lint
will stick to transmission parts and could interfere
with valve operation or even restrict fluid passages.
Lubricate transmission clutch and gear compo-
nents with MopartATF +4, Automatic Transmission
fluid, during reassembly. Soak clutch discs in trans-
mission fluid before installation.
Use MopartDoor Ease, or Ru-GlydeŸ on piston
seals and O-rings to ease installation. Petroleum jelly
can also be used to lubricate and hold thrust washers
and plates in position during assembly.
Do not use chassis grease, bearing grease,
white grease, or similar lubricants on any part.
These types of lubricants can eventually block or
restrict fluid passages and valve operation. Use
petroleum jelly only.
Do not force parts into place. The transmission
components and sub-assemblies are easily installed
by hand when properly aligned. If a part seems dif-
ficult to install, it is either misaligned or incorrectly
assembled. Verify that thrust washers, thrust plates
and seal rings are correctly positioned.
The planetary geartrain, front/rear clutch assem-
blies and oil pump are all much easier to install
when the transmission case is upright. Either tilt the
case upward with wood blocks, or cut a hole in the
bench large enough for the intermediate shaft and
rear support. Then lower the shaft and support into
the hole and support the rear of the case directly on
the bench.Fig. 44 Rear Servo Retaining Snap-Ring
1 - TOOL C-4470
2 - C-CLAMP
3 - REAR SERVO SPRING RETAINER
4 - RETAINER SNAP-RING
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 165
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE (Continued)

BANDS
DESCRIPTION
KICKDOWN (FRONT) BAND
The kickdown, or ªfrontº, band (Fig. 76) holds the
common sun gear of the planetary gear sets. The
front (kickdown) band is made of steel, and faced on
its inner circumference with a friction-type lining.
One end of the band is anchored to the transmission
case, and the other is acted on with a pushing force
by a servo piston. The front band is a single-wrap
design (the band does not completely encompass/
wrap the drum that it holds).
LOW/REVERSE (REAR) BAND
The low/reverse band, or ªrearº, band (Fig. 77) is
similar in appearance and operation to the front
band. The rear band is also a single-wrap design (
the band does not completely encompass/wrap the
drum that it holds).
OPERATION
KICKDOWN (FRONT) BAND
The kickdown band holds the common sun gear of
the planetary gear sets by applying and holding the
front clutch retainer, which is splined to the sun gear
driving shell, and in turn splined directly to the sun
gear. The application of the band by the servo is typ-
ically done by an apply lever and link bar.
LOW/REVERSE (REAR) BAND
The rear band holds the rear planet carrier sta-
tionary by being mounted around and applied to the
low/reverse drum.
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT - BANDS
FRONT BAND
The front (kickdown) band adjusting screw is
located on the left side of the transmission case
above the manual valve and throttle valve levers.
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Loosen band adjusting screw locknut (Fig. 78).
Then back locknut off 3-5 turns. Be sure adjusting
screw turns freely in case. Apply lubricant to screw
threads if necessary.
(3) Tighten band adjusting screw to 8 N´m (72 in.
lbs.) torque with Inch Pound Torque Wrench
C-3380-A, a 3-in. extension and an appropriate
TorxŸ socket.
CAUTION: If Adapter C-3705 is needed to reach the
adjusting screw, tighten the screw to only 5 N´m
(47-50 in. lbs.) torque.
(4) Back off front band adjusting screw 2-7/8
turns.
(5) Hold adjuster screw in position and tighten
locknut to 41 N´m (30 ft. lbs.) torque.
(6) Lower vehicle.
REAR BAND
The transmission oil pan must be removed for
access to the rear band adjusting screw.
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Remove transmission oil pan and drain fluid.
(3) Loosen band adjusting screw locknut 5-6 turns.
Be sure adjusting screw turns freely in lever.
Fig. 76 Front Band
1 - FRONT BAND
2 - TRANSMISSION HOUSING
Fig. 77 Rear Band And Link
1 - BAND LINK
2 - REAR BAND
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 193

FLUID AND FILTER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EFFECTS OF
INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
A low fluid level allows the pump to take in air
along with the fluid. Air in the fluid will cause fluid
pressures to be low and develop slower than normal.
If the transmission is overfilled, the gears churn the
fluid into foam. This aerates the fluid and causing
the same conditions occurring with a low level. In
either case, air bubbles cause fluid overheating, oxi-
dation and varnish buildup which interferes with
valve and clutch operation. Foaming also causes fluid
expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the
transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can eas-
ily be mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CAUSES OF
BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating
which has two primary causes.
(1) A result of restricted fluid flow through the
main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usu-
ally the result of a faulty or improperly installed
drainback valve, a damaged main cooler, or severe
restrictions in the coolers and lines caused by debris
or kinked lines.
(2) Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not prop-
erly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer tow-
ing or similar high load operation will overheat the
transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly
equipped. Such vehicles should have an auxiliary
transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling sys-
tem, and the engine/axle ratio combination needed to
handle heavy loads.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FLUID
CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a
result of:
²adding incorrect fluid
²failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when
checking level
²engine coolant entering the fluid
²internal failure that generates debris
²overheat that generates sludge (fluid break-
down)
²failure to replace contaminated converter after
repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in
transmission failure. The usual results are erratic
shifts, slippage, abnormal wear and eventual failuredue to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid
this condition by using recommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped
clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and
other foreign material on the cap and tube could fall
into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the
time to wipe the cap and tube clean before withdraw-
ing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is gener-
ally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy
is to replace the radiator as the cooler in the radiator
is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated
through the transmission, an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should be replaced whenever
a failure generates sludge and debris. This is neces-
sary because normal converter flushing procedures
will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL
CHECK
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 build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transmssion has too much fluid, the
geartrain churns up foam and cause the same condi-
tions which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transmission vent where it may be mis-
taken for a leak.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level.
It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure
to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
Fluid level is checked with the engine running at
curb idle speed, the transmission in NEUTRAL and
the transmission fluid at normal operating tempera-
ture.The engine should be running at idle
speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle
on level ground.
The transmission fluid level can be checked two
ways.
PROCEDURE ONE
(1) Transmission fluid must be at normal operat-
ing temperature for accurate fluid level check. Drive
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46RE 21 - 201

CLEANING
Clean the valve housings, valves, plugs, springs,
and separator plates with a standard parts cleaning
solution only. Do not use gasoline, kerosene, or any
type of caustic solution.
Do not immerse any of the electrical components in
cleaning solution. Clean the governor solenoid and
sensor and the dual solenoid and harness assembly
by wiping them off with dry shop towels only.
Dry all except the electrical parts with compressed
air. Make sure all passages are clean and free from
obstructions.Do not use rags or shop towels to
dry or wipe off valve body components. Lint
from these materials can stick to valve body
parts, interfere with valve operation, and clog
filters and fluid passages.
Wipe the governor pressure sensor and solenoid
valve with dry, lint free shop towels only. The O-rings
on the sensor and solenoid valve are the only service-
able components. Be sure the vent ports in the sole-
noid valve are open and not blocked by dirt or debris.
Replace the valve and/or sensor only when DRB scan
tool diagnosis indicates this is necessary. Or, if either
part has sustained physical damage (dented,
deformed, broken, etc.).
CAUTION: Do not turn the small screw at the end of
the solenoid valve for any reason. Turning the
screw in either direction will ruin solenoid calibra-
tion and result in solenoid failure. In addition, thefilter on the solenoid valve is NOT serviceable. Do
not try to remove the filter as this will damage the
valve housing.
INSPECTION
Inspect the throttle and manual valve levers and
shafts. Do not attempt to straighten a bent shaft or
correct a loose lever. Replace these components if
worn, bent, loose or damaged in any way.
Inspect all of the valve body mating surfaces for
scratches, nicks, burrs, or distortion. Use a straight-
edge to check surface flatness. Minor scratches may
be removed with crocus cloth using only very light
pressure.
Minor distortion of a valve body mating surface
may be corrected by smoothing the surface with a
sheet of crocus cloth. Position the crocus cloth on a
surface plate, sheet of plate glass or equally flat sur-
face. If distortion is severe or any surfaces are
heavily scored, the valve body will have to be
replaced.
CAUTION: Many of the valves and plugs, such as
the throttle valve, shuttle valve plug, 1-2 shift valve
and 1-2 governor plug, are made of coated alumi-
num. Aluminum components are identified by the
dark color of the special coating applied to the sur-
face (or by testing with a magnet). Do not sand alu-
minum valves or plugs under any circumstances.
This practice could damage the special coating
causing the valves/plugs to stick and bind.
Inspect the valves and plugs for scratches, burrs,
nicks, or scores. Minor surface scratches on steel
valves and plugs can be removed with crocus cloth
butdo not round off the edges of the valve or
plug lands.Maintaining sharpness of these edges is
vitally important. The edges prevent foreign matter
from lodging between the valves and plugs and the
bore.
Inspect all the valve and plug bores in the valve
body. Use a penlight to view the bore interiors.
Replace the valve body if any bores are distorted or
scored. Inspect all of the valve body springs. The
springs must be free of distortion, warpage or broken
coils.
Check the two separator plates for distortion or
damage of any kind. Inspect the upper housing,
lower housing, 3-4 accumulator housing, and transfer
plate carefully. Be sure all fluid passages are clean
and clear. Check condition of the upper housing and
transfer plate check balls as well. The check balls
and ball seats must not be worn or damaged.
Trial fit each valve and plug in its bore to check
freedom of operation. When clean and dry, the valves
and plugs should drop freely into the bores.
Fig. 322 3-4 Accumulator and Housing
1 - ACCUMULATOR PISTON
2 - 3-4 ACCUMULATOR HOUSING
3 - TEFLON SEALS
4 - PISTON SPRING
5 - COVER PLATE AND SCREWS
21 - 298 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 46REDR
VALVE BODY (Continued)