overheating DODGE RAM SRT-10 2006 Service User Guide

MANUAL TRANSMISSION - G56 - SERVICE INFORMATION
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - G56
LOW LUBRICANT LEVEL
A low transmission lubricant level is generally the result of a leak, inadequate lubricant fill or incorrect lubricant level
check.
Rear transmission leakswill be from the oil seals or component mating surfaces.
Front transmission leakswill be from the front input shaft retainer seal. Lubricant may drip from theclutchhousing
after extended operation. If leak is severe, it may contaminate the clutchdisc.
Lubricant level checkcan only be made when the vehicle is level and allowing the lubricant to settle for a minute
before checking. This will ensure an accurate check and avoid an under or overfill condition.
HARD SHIFTING
Hard shifting is usually caused by low lubricant level, improper or contaminated lubricants. This will cause noise,
excessive wear, internal bind, and hard shifting. Substantial lubricantleaks can result in gear, shift rail, synchro, and
bearing damage. The first indications of component damage is usually hardshifting and noise.
Shift component damage, clutch adjustment, worn pressure plate or disc are also causes of increased shift effort. If
clutch problem is advanced, gear clash during shifts can result. Worn or damaged synchronizer rings can cause
gear clash when shifting into any forward gear. In some new or rebuilt transmissions, new synchro rings may tend
to stick slightly causing hard or noisy shifts. In most cases, this condition will decline as the rings wear-in.
TRANSMISSION NOISE
Most manual transmissions make some noise during normal operation. Rotating gears generate a mild whine that is
audible, but generally only at extreme speeds.
Severe, highly audible transmission noise is generally the initial indicator of a lubricant problem. Insufficient,
improper or contaminated lubricant will promote rapid wear of gears, synchronizer rings, shift rails, forks and bear-
ings. The overheating caused by a lubricant problem, can also lead to gear and bearing damage.

MANUAL TRANSMISSION - GETRAG 238 - SERVICE INFORMATION
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - GETRAG 238
LOW LUBRICANT LEVEL
A low transmission lubricant level is generally the result of a leak, inadequate lubricant fill or incorrect lubricant level
check.
Rear transmission leakswill be from the oil seals or transfer case front seal on 4x4.
Front transmission leakswill be from the front input shaft retainer seal. Lubricant may drip from theclutchhousing
after extended operation. If leak is severe, it may contaminate the clutchdisc.
Lubricant level checkcan only be made when the vehicle is level and allowing the lubricant to settle for a minute
before checking. This will ensure an accurate check and avoid an under or overfill condition.
HARD SHIFTING
Hard shifting can be caused by low lubricant level, improper or contaminated lubricants. This will cause noise,
excessive wear, internal bind, and hard shifting. Substantial lubricantleaks can result in gear, shift rail, synchro, and
bearing damage. The first indications of component damage is usually hardshifting and noise.
Shift component damage, clutch adjustment, worn pressure plate or disc, can increased shift effort. If clutch problem
is advanced, gear clash during shifts can result. Worn or damaged synchronizer rings can cause gear clash when
shifting into any forward gear. In some new or rebuilt transmissions, new synchro rings may tend to stick slightly
causing hard or noisy shifts. In most cases, this condition will decline asthe rings wear-in.
TRANSMISSION NOISE
Most manual transmissions make some noise during normal operation. Rotating gears generate a mild whine that is
audible, but generally only at extreme speeds.
Severe, highly audible transmission noise is generally the initial indicator of a lubricant problem. Insufficient,
improper or contaminated lubricant will promote rapid wear of gears, synchronizer rings, shift rails, forks and bear-
ings. The overheating caused by a lubricant problem, can also lead to gear and bearing damage.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
DRAIN AND FILL
1. Raise and support vehicle.
2. Remove drain plug (1) on transmission (2) and
drain fluid.
3. Install drain plug and tighten to 50 Nꞏm (37 ft. lbs.).

MANUAL TRANSMISSION-T56 - SERVICE INFORMATION
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
MANUAL TRANSMISSION - T56
LOW LUBRICANT LEVEL
A low transmission lubricant level is generally the result of a leak, inadequate lubricant fill or incorrect lubricant level
check.
Rear transmission leakswill be from the oil seals or component mating surfaces.
Front transmission leakswill be from the front bearing retainer or retainer seal. Lubricant may dripfromtheclutch
housing after extended operation. If leak is severe, it may contaminate the clutch disc.
Lubricant level checkcan only be made when the vehicle is level and allowing the lubricant to settle for a minute
before checking. This will ensure an accurate check and avoid an underfillor overfill condition.
HARD SHIFTING
Hard shifting is usually caused by low lubricant level, improper or contaminated lubricants. This will cause noise,
excessive wear, internal bind, and hard shifting. Substantial lubricantleaks can result in gear, shift rail, synchro, and
bearing damage. The first indications of component damage is usually hardshifting and noise.
Shift component damage, clutch adjustment, worn pressure plate or disc are also causes of increased shift effort. If
clutch problem is advanced, gear clash during shifts can result. Worn or damaged synchro rings can cause gear
clash when shifting into any forward gear. In some new or rebuilt transmissions, new synchro rings may tend to stick
slightly causing hard or noisy shifts. In most cases, this condition will decline as the rings wear-in.
TRANSMISSION NOISE
Most manual transmissions make some noise during normal operation. Rotating gears generate a mild whine that is
audible, but generally only at extreme speeds.
Severe, highly audible transmission noise is generally the initial indicator of a lubricant problem. Insufficient,
improper or contaminated lubricant will promote rapid wear of gears, synchros, shift rails, forks and bearings. The
overheating caused by a lubricant problem, can also lead to gear and bearing damage.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - DRAIN AND FILL
1. Raise and support vehicle.
2. Remove drain plug (1) on transmission tail housing
and drain fluid.
3. Install drain plug and tighten to 38 Nꞏm (28 ft. lbs.).
4. Remove transmission fill plug on left side of the
transmission case.
5. Fill transmission to bottom of the fill hole.
6. Install transmission fill plug and tighten to 27 Nꞏm
(20 ft. lbs.).

P0218-HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION ACTIVATED
For a complete wiring diagramRefer to Section 8W.
When Monitored:
Whenever the engine is running.
Set Condition:
Immediately when a Overheat shift schedule is activated when the Transmission Oil Temperature reaches 155°
C or 240° F.
Possible Causes
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM OPERATION
TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER PLUGGED
H I G H T E M P E R AT U R E O P E R AT I O N S A C T I VAT E D
Always perform the Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
Theory of Operation
If the transmission oil temperature rises above 115° C (240° F), the overheat shift schedule is activated refer to
Transmission Operation as a function of Transmission Oil Temperature andthe code is set. The DTC is an infor-
mational code only and is being set to aid the technician in determining root cause of a customer driveability issue.
The code is also intended to alert the technician to determine if a cooling system malfunction has occurred or if an
additional transmission air to oil cooler should be added to the vehicle ifthe customer regularly drives in a manner
that overheats the transmission. Extended operation above 115° C (240° F)will reduce the durability of the trans-
mission and should be avoided. Correcting the cooling system malfunctionor installing an additional transmission oil
cooler will improve transmission durability especially for customers who operate in city/construction stop and go traf-
fic, tow trailers regularly, drive aggressively in low gear or drive regularly in mountainous areas.
Diagnostic Test
1.CHECK ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
Perform Engine Cooling System diagnostics per the Service Information.
Is the Engine Cooling System functioning properly?
Ye s>>
Go To 2
No>>
Repair the cause of the engine overheating. Refer to the Service Information for the related diagnostic
or repair procedures.
Perform 42RLE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/
TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
2.TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER RESTRICTED
Check the Transmission Oil Cooler Flow in accordance with the Service Information.
Is the transmission oil cooler restricted or plugged?
Ye s>>
Go To 3
No>>
Repair the cause of the plugged Transmission Oil Cooler as necessary and repair or replace the Trans-
mission Oil Cooler per the Service Information.
Perform 42RLE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/
TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)

3.HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION
This DTC is an informational DTC designed to aid the Technician in diagnosing shift quality complaints.
This DTC indicates that the transmission has been operating in the
Overheatshift schedule which may generate
a customer complaint.
The customer driving patterns may indicate the need for an additional transmission oil cooler.
With the scan tool, check the DTC EVENT DATA to help identify the conditionsin which the DTC was set.
Check for any Service Information Tune-ups or Service Bulletins for any possible causes that may apply.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.
Repair
Repair the cause of transmission overheating per the Service Information.
Perform 42RLE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/
TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)

P1797-MANUAL SHIFT OVERHEAT
For a complete wiring diagramRefer to Section 8W.
When Monitored:
Continuously with engine running.
Set Condition:
If the Engine Temperature exceeds 123° C (255° F) or the Transmission Temperature exceeds 135° C (275° F)
while in AutoStick
mode. Note: Aggressive driving or driving in low for extended periods of time will set this
DTC.
Possible Causes
MANUAL SHIFT OVERHEAT
Always perform the 42RLE Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding. (Refer to 21 -
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
Theory of Operation
The major cause of heat build up in the transmission is torque converter slip.WiththetransmissionintheAuto-
Stick
mode, the torque converter can slip during aggressive driving or heavy loading conditions such as trailer
towing or driving up steep grades. In the non AutoStick
mode, internal controller logic prevents the transmission
from overheating by managing the shift and EMCC schedule. In the AutoStick
mode, when the transmission or
engine temperature approaches an overheat condition, the manual shift overheat DTC sets and the AutoStick
mode is temporarily suspended until the temperature returns to normal.
Diagnostic Test
1.MANUAL SHIFT OVERHEAT
This is an informational DTC only.
With the scan tool, check the DTC EVENT DATA to help identify the conditionsin which the DTC was set.
Check the engine and transmission cooling system for proper operation.
Check the Radiator Cooling Fan operation.
Check the Transmission Cooling operation.
Check the Transmission Fluid Level per the Service Information to verify that it is not overfilled.
NOTE: Aggressive driving or driving in low for extended periods of time will set this DTC.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.
Repair
If the Transmission Fluid is low, repair any Transmission Fluid leak as necessary and adjust the Trans-
mission Fluid Level per the Service Information. Refer to Service Information for the related symptoms
and repair as necessary.
Perform 42RLE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/
TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)

FLUID AND FILTER
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 usually the result of a
faulty or improperly installed drainback valve, a damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines
caused by debris or kinked lines.
2. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing 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 system,and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
Alowfluidlevelallowsthepumptotakeinairalongwiththefluid.Airinthe fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, thegears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valveand clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:
adding incorrect fluid
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level
engine coolant entering the fluid
internal failure that generates debris
overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)
failure to replace contaminated converter after repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. Theusual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial 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 withdrawing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally 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 also be replaced whenever a failure generatessludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The transmission sump has a dipstick to check oil similar to most automatictransmissions. It is located on the left
side of the engine. Be sure to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
The torque converter fills in both the PARK and NEUTRAL positions. Place the selector lever in PARK to be sure
that the fluid level check is accurate.The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one minute, with
the vehicle on level ground.At normal operating temperature (approximately 82° C or 180° F), the fluidlevel is
correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil level indicator. The fluid level should be in COLD
region at 21° C (70° F) fluid temperature. Adjust fluid level as necessary.Use only Mopar
ATF+4, Automatic Trans-
mission Fluid.

P0218-HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION ACTIVATED
For a complete wiring diagramRefer to Section 8W.
Theory of Operation
The DTC is intended as an informational DTC to aid the technician in determining the root cause of a customer
dirveability issue. The DTC is also intended to alert the technician to determine if a cooling system malfunction has
occurred or if an additional transmission air to oil cooler is needed to support the customers driving behavior.
When Monitored:
Whenever the engine is running.
Set Condition:
Immediately after a Overheat shift schedule is activated when the Transmission temperature exceeds 127° C
or 260° F.
Possible Causes
H I G H T E M P E R AT U R E O P E R AT I O N A C T I VAT E D
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH SLIPPING / NOT ACTIVATING
EXCESSIVE TIME IDLING IN GEAR
Always perform the Pre-Diagnostic Troubleshooting procedure before proceeding. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 45RFE/545RFE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
Diagnostic Test
1.HIGH TEMPERATURE OPERATION
This DTC is an informational DTC designed to aid the Technician in diagnosing shift quality complaints.
This DTC indicates that the transmission has been operating in the
Overheatshift schedule which may generate
a customer complaint.
The customer driving patterns may indicate the need for an additional transmission oil cooler.
Verify proper Engine cooling system operation which would affect proper transmission operation.
Verify proper torque converter clutch operation.
With the scan tool, check the DTC EVENT DATA to help identify the conditionsin which the DTC was set.
If there are no possible causes remaining, view repair.
Repair
Repair the cause of transmission overheating. Refer to the Service Information for the proper repair
procedure. Make sure to check for any Service Bulletins pertaining to thisproblem.
Perform 45RFE/545RFE TRANSMISSION VERIFICATION TEST - VER 1. (Refer to 21- TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 45RFE/545RFE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)

FLUID AND FILTER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
Alowfluidlevelallowsthepumptotakeinairalongwiththefluid.Airinthe fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, thegears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valveand clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has three primarycauses.
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 usually the result of a
faulty or improperly installed drainback valve, a damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines
caused by debris or kinked lines.
3. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing 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 system,and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:
adding incorrect fluid
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level
engine coolant entering the fluid
internal failure that generates debris
overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)
failure to replace contaminated converter after repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. Theusual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial 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 withdrawing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally 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 also be replaced whenever a failure generatessludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions because it allows the pumpto 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 conditions 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 nor-
mal valve, clutch, and accumulator operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transmission vent
where it may be mistaken 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.
The torque converter fills in both the P(PARK) and N (NEUTRAL) positions. Place the selector lever in P (PARK)
to be sure that the fluid level check is accurate.The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one
minute, with the vehicle on level ground.At normal operating temperature (approximately 82° C. or 180° F), the
fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on theoil level indicator. The fluid level will be
approximately at the upper COLD hole of the dipstick at 21° C (70° F) fluid temperature.
NOTE: Engine and Transmission should be at normal operating temperature before performing this proce-
dure.
1. Start engine and apply parking brake.
2. Shift the transmission into DRIVE for approximately 2 seconds.
3. Shift the transmission into REVERSE for approximately 2 seconds.
4. Shift the transmission into PARK.
5. Hook up scan tool andselect transmission.
6. Select sensors.
7. Read the transmission temperature value.
8. Compare the fluid temperature value with the chart.
9. Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the dipstick according to the Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart.
NOTE: After adding any fluid to the transmission, wait a minimum of 2 minutes for the oil to fully drain from
the fill tube into the transmission before rechecking the fluid level.
10. Check transmission for leaks.