AUX DODGE RAM 2003 Service User Guide

8W-20 CHARGING SYSTEM
Component Page
Auxiliary Battery.................... 8W-20-3
Battery.......................... 8W-20-2, 3
Engine Control Module.............. 8W-20-3, 4
Fuse 19.......................... 8W-20-2, 3
Fusible Link.................... 8W-20-2, 3, 4
G100............................ 8W-20-2, 3
G101............................ 8W-20-2, 3
G102............................ 8W-20-2, 3
G107.............................. 8W-20-2
G108.............................. 8W-20-3Component Page
G109.............................. 8W-20-3
G120.............................. 8W-20-3
Generator........................ 8W-20-2, 3
Integrated Power Module.......... 8W-20-2, 3, 4
Leak Detection Pump................. 8W-20-2
Powertrain Control Module.......... 8W-20-2, 3
Starter Motor..................... 8W-20-2, 3
Transmission Control Relay............ 8W-20-2
DR8W-20 CHARGING SYSTEM 8W - 20 - 1

8W-21 STARTING SYSTEM
Component Page
Auxiliary Battery.................... 8W-21-3
Battery.......................... 8W-21-2, 3
Clutch Interlock Brake Switch.......... 8W-21-4
Fuse 14.......................... 8W-21-2, 3
G103.............................. 8W-21-4
G104.............................. 8W-21-4
Ignition Switch.................... 8W-21-2, 3
Integrated Power Module.......... 8W-21-2, 3, 4Component Page
Powertrain Control Module.......... 8W-21-2, 4
Starter Motor..................... 8W-21-2, 3
Starter Motor Relay................ 8W-21-2, 3
Transfer Case Control Module.......... 8W-21-4
Transmission Range Sensor............ 8W-21-4
Transmission Solenoid/TRS Assembly.... 8W-21-4
DR8W-21 STARTING SYSTEM 8W - 21 - 1

(2) Lower engine into the engine compartment and
install the engine the engine mount through bolts
and nuts.
(3) Tighten the mount through bolts and nuts to
88 N-m (65 ft-lbs) torque.
(4) Remove the engine lifting device (Tool 9009).
(5) Check cylinder head capscrew length and
install into cylinder head.
(6) Torque alternately to 70 N-m (52 ft-lbs). Torque
alternately to 105 N-m (77 ft-lbs). Rotate 90 degrees.
(7) Install rocker housing. Torque to 24 N-m (18 ft-
lbs). Refer to Section 9 Rocker Housing Installation
(8) Replace injector o-ring and sealing washer on
injectors #5 and #6. Install injectors and alternately
tighten hold-down capscrews to 10 N-m (89 in-lbs).
(9) Install fuel connector tube and fuel connector
tube nut. Torque to 50 N-m (37 ft-lb). 10.
(10) Install #5 and #6 high pressure fuel lines. Fol-
low correct torque sequence per section 14. Torque
fuel line fittings to 30 N-m (22 ft-lb). Torque brace
capscrew to 24 N-m (18 ft-lb).
(11) Install rear engine lift bracket. Torque to 77
N-m (57 ft-lb).
(12) Install push tubes, rocker arms, and pedestals
for cylinders #4, #5, and #6. Torque the mounting
bolts to 36 N-m (27 ft-lbs).
(13) Reset valve lash on cylinders #4, #5, and #6.
Torque adjusting nuts to 24 N-m (18 ft-lbs).
(14) Install cylinder head cover. Torque to 24 N-m
(18 ft-lbs).(Refer to 9 - ENGINE/CYLINDER HEAD -
INSTALLATION).
(15) Connect breather tube and lube oil drain tube
to breather housing. Install breather housing. Torque
capscrews to 24 N-m (18 ft-lbs)
(16) Connect fuel supply and return hoses.
(17) Connect ECM ground to hydroform screw.
Connect ECM power connector.
(18) Install the APPS cable(s) to the APPS. Install
the throttle linkage cover.
(19) Install the power steering pump.
(20) Install the damper and speed indicator ring.
Torque to 40 N-m (30 ft-lb) plus 60 degrees.
(21) Connect the engine block heater connection.
(22) Connect the A/C compressor and pressure sen-
sor connectors
(23) Install the charge air cooler and a/c condenser
(if equipped). Install and tighten the charge air
cooler mounting bolts to 2 N-m (17 in-lbs).
(24) Connect the charge air cooler piping. Torque
all clamps to 8 N-m (72 in-lbs).
(25) Connect the a/c refrigerant lines to the a/c
condenser (if equipped).
(26) Install the radiator upper support panel.
(27) Install radiator.
(28) Connect the transmission quick-connect oil
cooler lines.(29) Raise vehicle.
(30) Connect a/c compressor suction/discharge hose
(if equipped).
(31) Install the radiator lower hose and clamps.
(32) Install the battery negative cables to the
engine block on the driver and passenger side.
(33) Install the transmission adapter with a new
camshaft rectangular ring seal. Torque to 77 N-m (57
ft-lb).
(34) Install the flywheel/flexplate. Torque to 137
N-m (101 ft-lb).
(35) Install the starter motor. Torque to 43 N-m
(32 ft-lb). (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/STARTING/
STARTER MOTOR - INSTALLATION).
(36) Connect engine to vehicle harness connectors.
(37) Install transmission and transfer case (if
equipped).
(38) Connect the exhaust pipe to the turbocharger
elbow.
(39) Connect the transmission auxiliary oil cooler
lines (if equipped).
(40) Lower the vehicle.
(41)
Connect the heater core supply and return hoses.
(42) Install the cooling fan and upper fan shroud
at the same time. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/ENGINE/
RADIATOR FAN - INSTALLATION).
(43) Install the coolant recovery bottle.
(44) Install the windshield washer bottle.
(45) Install the upper radiator hose and clamps.
(46) Raise vehicle.
(47) Connect electronically controlled fan drive
wire harness. Install lower radiator fan shroud.
(48) Change oil filter and install new engine oil.
(49) Fill the cooling system with coolant. (Refer to
7 - COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(50) Connect grid heater harness at grid heater
relays.
(51) Connect electrical connections to rear of alter-
nator.
(52) Start the engine and inspect for engine oil,
coolant, and fuel leaks.
INSTALLATIONÐCRANKCASE BREATHER
(1) Install a new o-ring onto the breather element.
(2) Lubricate o-ring and install into cylinder head
cover. Torque capscrews to 10 N´m (89 in. lbs.).
(3) Connect breather tube and lube oil drain tube.
(4) Install breather cover (Fig. 4). Torque to 24
N´m (18 ft. lbs.)
(5) Install oil fill cap.
9 - 292 ENGINE 5.9L DIESELDR
ENGINE 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

(14) Install the fan support/hub assembly and
tighten bolts to 33 N´m (24 ft. lbs.) torque.
(15) Install the power steering pump.
(16) Install accessory drive belt tensioner. Torque
bolt to 43 Nm (43 ft. lbs.).
(17) Install the accessory drive belt (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS -
INSTALLATION).
(18) Install the charge air cooler (with a/c con-
denser and auxiliary transmission oil cooler, if
equipped) and tighten the mounting bolts to 2 N´m
(17 in. lbs.) torque.
(19) Connect charge air cooler inlet and outlet
pipes. Tighten clamps to 11 N´m (95 in. lbs.) torque.
(20) Install the radiator upper support panel.
(21) Close radiator petcock and lower the radiator
into the engine compartment. Tighten the mounting
bolts to 11 N´m (95 in. lbs.) torque.
(22) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(23)
Connect radiator lower hose and install clamp.
(24) Connect transmission auxiliary oil cooler lines
(if equipped).
(25) Lower vehicle.
(26) Install the fan shroud and tighten the mount-
ing screws to 6 N´m (50 in. lbs.) torque.
(27) Install the electronically controlled viscous
fan/drive assembly. Connect harness connector.(Refer
to 7 - COOLING/ENGINE/RADIATOR FAN -
INSTALLATION).
(28) Install the coolant recovery and windshield
washer fluid reservoirs to the fan shroud.
(29) Connect the coolant recovery hose to the radi-
ator filler neck.
(30) Add engine coolant (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(31) Charge A/C system with refrigerant (if A/C
equipped) (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(32) Connect the battery negative cables.
(33) Start engine and check for engine oil and cool-
ant leaks.
CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS
STANDARD PROCEDURE - CONNECTING ROD
BEARING AND CRANKSHAFT JOURNAL
CLEARANCE
(1) Measure the connecting rod bore with bearings
removedand the bolts tightened to 100 N´m (73 ft.
lbs.) torque..
(2) Measure the connecting rod bore with the bear-
ingsinstalledand the bolts tightened to 100 N´m
(73 ft. lbs.) torque.
Measure within 20É arc from each side of the part-
ing line. Also measure 90É from parting line.Record the smallest and largest diameter.
Measure the diameter of the rod journal at the
location shown (Fig. 65). Calculate the average diam-
eter for each side of the journal.
Determine minimum bearing clearance by calculating
the differance between the smallest connecting rod bore
diameter with the bearing installed and the average
diameter for each side of the crankshaft journal.
Determine the maximum bearing clearance by calcu-
lating the difference between the largest connecting rod
bore diameter and the average diameter with the bear-
ing installed for each side of the crankshaft journal.
DESCRIPTION MEASUREMENT
CONNECTING ROD
BORE, BEARINGS
REMOVEDMIN. 72.99 mm (2.874
in.)
MAX. 73.01 mm (2.875
in.)
CONNECTING ROD
BORE, BEARINGS
INSTALLEDMIN. 69.05 mm (2.719
in.)
MAX. 69.10 mm (2.720
in.)
If the crankshaft is within limits, replace the bear-
ing. If the crankshaft is out of limits, grind the
crankshaft to the next smaller size and use oversize
rod bearings.
Fig. 65 Connecting Rod Journal Diameter Limits
CONNECTING ROD JOURNAL DIAMETER
LIMITS CHART
DESCRIPTION MEASUREMENT
CRANKSHAFT ROD JOURNAL
DIAMETERMin. 68.96 mm (2.715 in.)
Max. 69.01 mm (2.717 in.)
BEARING CLEARANCE Min. 0.04 mm (.002 in.)
Max. 0.12 mm (0.005 in.)
DRENGINE 5.9L DIESEL 9 - 321
CAMSHAFT & BEARINGS (IN BLOCK) (Continued)

(1) Disconnect the battery negative cables.
(2) Discharge the A/C system (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE) and remove the A/C condenser
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING/A/C CONDENSER - REMOVAL) (if A/C
equipped).
(3) Remove the transmission auxiliary cooler
(Refer to 7 - COOLING/TRANSMISSION/TRANS
COOLER - REMOVAL).
(4) Remove the boost tubes from the charge air
cooler (Fig. 24).
(5) Remove the charge air cooler bolts. Pivot the
charge air cooler forward and up to remove.
CLEANING
CAUTION: Do not use caustic cleaners to clean the
charge air cooler. Damage to the charge air cooler
will result.
NOTE: If internal debris cannot be removed from
the cooler, the charge air cooler MUST be replaced.(1) If the engine experiences a turbocharger failure
or any other situation where oil or debris get into the
charge air cooler, the charge air cooler must be
cleaned internally.
(2) Position the charge air cooler so the inlet and
outlet tubes are vertical.
(3) Flush the cooler internally with solvent in the
direction opposite of normal air flow.
(4)
Shake the cooler and lightly tap on the end
tanks with a rubber mallet to dislodge trapped debris.
(5) Continue flushing until all debris or oil are
removed.
(6) Rinse the cooler with hot soapy water to
remove any remaining solvent.
(7) Rinse thoroughly with clean water and blow
dry with compressed air.
INSPECTION
Visually inspect the charge air cooler for cracks,
holes, or damage. Inspect the tubes, fins, and welds
for tears, breaks, or other damage. Replace the
charge air cooler if damage is found.
Pressure test the charge air cooler, using Charge
Air Cooler Tester Kit #3824556. This kit is available
through CumminstService Products. Instructions
are provided with the kit.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the charge air cooler. Install the bolts
and tighten to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.) torque.
(2) Install the air intake system tubes to the
charge air cooler. With the clamps in position, tighten
the clamps to 11 N´m (95 in. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install the transmission auxiliary cooler (if
equipped) (Refer to 7 - COOLING/TRANSMISSION/
TRANS COOLER - INSTALLATION).
(4)
Install the A/C condenser (if A/C equipped) (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMB-
ING/A/C CONDENSER - INSTALLATION). Recharge
A/C system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(5) Connect the battery negative cables.
(6) Start engine and check for boost system leaks.
Fig. 24 Air Intake System Tubes
1 - BOLT
2 - CHARGE AIR COOLER
3 - CLAMP
4 - BOOST TUBE
11 - 16 EXHAUST SYSTEMDR
CHARGE AIR COOLER AND PLUMBING (Continued)

INSTALLATION
(1) Be sure both top of manifold and limiting valve
are clean.
(2) Assemble banjo bolt and new sealing washers
to limiting valve.
(3) Tighten banjo bolt to 24 N´M (17 ft. lbs.)
torque.
FUEL TANK
DESCRIPTION - DIESEL
The fuel tank is similar to the tank used with gas-
oline powered models. The tank is equipped with a
separate fuel return line and a different fuel tank
module for diesel powered models. A fuel tank
mounted, electric fuel pump is not used with diesel
powered models. Refer to Fuel Tank Module for addi-
tional information.
REMOVAL - DIESEL
Fuel Tank Draining
Due to a one-way check valve installed into the
fuel fill opening fitting at the tank, the tank cannot
be drained conventionally at the fill cap.
(1) Raise vehicle.(2) If vehicle is equipped with 4 doors and a 6 foot
(short) box, remove left-rear tire/wheel.
(3) Thoroughly clean area at top of fuel tank
around fuel tank module.
(4) Remove rubber cap from auxiliary fitting on
top of tank module (Fig. 21).
(5) Drain fuel tank by attaching drain hose from
an approved draining station to auxiliary fitting on
top of tank module (Fig. 21).
Tank Removal
(1) Loosen clamp and disconnect rubber fuel fill
hose at tank.
(2) Support tank with a hydraulic jack.
(3) Remove 2 fuel tank strap nuts (Fig. 22) and
remove both tank support straps.
(4) Carefully lower tank a few inches and discon-
nect fuel pump module electrical connector (Fig. 21)
at top of tank. To disconnect electrical connector:
Push upward on red colored tab to unlock. Push on
black colored tab while removing connector.
(5) Disconnect fuel supply and return lines at fuel
tank module (Fig. 21). Refer to Quick-Connect Fit-
tings for procedures.
(6) Continue to lower tank for removal.
Fig. 20 FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR/FUEL
PRESSURE LIMITING VALVE
1 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
2 - BANJO BOLT
3 - FUEL PRESSURE LIMITING VALVE
4 - FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR
5 - TOP OF INTAKE HEATER MANIFOLD
Fig. 21 FUEL TANK MODULE - DIESEL
1 - TOP OF FUEL TANK
2 - AUX. FITTING
3 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
4 - FUEL TANK MODULE (TOP)
5 - LOCKNUT
6 - FUEL SUPPLY LINE
7 - FUEL RETURN LINE
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 73
FUEL PRESSURE LIMITING VALVE (Continued)

FUEL TANK MODULE
DESCRIPTION
An electric fuel pump isnot usedin the fuel tank
module for diesel powered engines. Fuel is supplied
by the engine mounted fuel transfer (lift) pump.
The fuel tank module is installed in the top of the
fuel tank (Fig. 23). The fuel tank module contains
the following components:
²Fuel reservoir
²A separate in-tank fuel filter
²Fuel gauge sending unit (fuel level sensor)
²Fuel supply line connection
²Fuel return line connection
²Auxiliary non-pressurized fitting
OPERATION
Refer to Fuel Gauge Sending Unit.
REMOVAL
(1) Drain and remove fuel tank. Refer to Fuel
Tank Removal/Installation.
(2) Thoroughly clean area around tank module at
top of tank.
(3) The plastic fuel tank module locknut is
threaded onto fuel tank. Install Special Tool 6856 tolocknut and remove locknut (Fig. 24). The fuel tank
module will spring up when locknut is removed.
(4) Remove module from fuel tank.
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: Whenever the fuel tank module is ser-
viced, the rubber gasket must be replaced.
(1) Thoroughly clean locknut and locknut threads
at top of tank.
(2) Using new gasket, carefully position fuel tank
module into opening in fuel tank.
(3) Position locknut over top of fuel tank module.
Install locknut finger tight.
(4) When looking down at tank from drivers side of
tank, the fuel line connectors and fuel gauge electri-
cal connector should all be pointed to drivers side of
vehicle. Rotate and align if necessary before tighten-
ing locknut.This step must be performed to pre-
vent the module's float from contacting side of
fuel tank.
(5) Tighten locknut to 24 - 44 N´m (18 - 32 ft. lbs.)
torque.
(6) Install fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Removal/
Installation.
FUEL TRANSFER PUMP
DESCRIPTION
The fuel transfer pump (fuel lift pump) is attached
to the rear of the fuel filter/water separator housing.
The 12±volt electric pump is operated and controlled
by the Engine Control Module (ECM).
Fig. 23 FUEL TANK MODULE - DIESEL
1 - TOP OF FUEL TANK
2 - AUX. FITTING
3 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
4 - FUEL TANK MODULE (TOP)
5 - LOCKNUT
6 - FUEL SUPPLY LINE
7 - FUEL RETURN LINE
Fig. 24 LOCKNUT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION -
TYPICAL MODULE
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6856
2 - LOCKNUT
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 75

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

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 - 48RE 21 - 381

BTSI FUNCTION CHECK
(1) Verify removal of ignition key allowed in PARK
position only.
(2) When the shift lever is in PARK, the ignition
key cylinder should rotate freely from off to lock.
When the shifter is in any other position, the ignition
key should not rotate from off to lock.
(3) Shifting out of PARK should be possible when
the ignition key cylinder is in the off position.
(4) Shifting out of PARK should not be possible
while applying normal force, and ignition key cylin-
der is in the run or start positions, unless the foot
brake pedal is depressed approximately 1/2 inch
(12mm).
(5) Shifting out of PARK should not be possible
when the ignition key cylinder is in the accessory or
lock position.
(6) Shifting between any gear and NEUTRAL, or
PARK, may be done without depressing foot brake
with ignition switch in run or start positions.
(7) Engine starts must be possible with shifter
lever in PARK or NEUTRAL positions only. Engine
starts must not be possible in any position other than
PARK or NEUTRAL.
(8) With shifter lever in the:
²PARK position - Apply upward force on the shift
arm and remove pressure. Engine starts must be
possible.
²PARK position - Apply downward force on the
shift arm and remove pressure. Engine starts must
be possible.
²NEUTRAL position - Normal position. Engine
starts must be possible.²NEUTRAL position - Engine running and brakes
applied, apply upward force on the shift arm. Trans-
mission shall not be able to shift from neutral to
reverse.
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 three primary causes.
(1) Internal clutch slippage, usually caused by low
line pressure, inadequate clutch apply pressure, or
clutch seal failure.
(2) 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.
(3) 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
Fig. 65 Brake Transmission Interlock Mechanism
1 - STEERING COLUMN
2 - GEARSHIFT CABLE
3 - GEARSHIFT CABLE LOCK TAB
4 - BTSI SOLENOID LOCK TAB
5 - BTSI CONNECTOR
DRAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 45RFE/545RFE 21 - 541
BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM (Continued)