Information JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2003 WJ / 2.G Workshop Manual

IDENTIFICATION
Transmission identification numbers are stamped
on the left side of the case just above the oil pan gas-
ket surface (Fig. 2). Refer to this information when
ordering replacement parts.
GEAR RATIOS The 42RE gear ratios are:
1st.................................2.74:1
2nd................................1.54:1
3rd.................................1.00:1
4th.................................0.69:1
Rev.................................2.21:1
OPERATION
The application of each driving or holding compo-
nent is controlled by the valve body based upon the
manual lever position, throttle pressure, and gover-
nor pressure. The governor pressure is a variable
pressure input to the valve body and is one of the
signals that a shift is necessary. First through fourth
gear are obtained by selectively applying and releas-
ing the different clutches and bands. Engine power is
thereby routed to the various planetary gear assem-
blies which combine with the overrunning clutch
assemblies to generate the different gear ratios. The
torque converter clutch is hydraulically applied and
is released when fluid is vented from the hydraulic
circuit by the torque converter control (TCC) solenoid
on the valve body. The torque converter clutch is con-
trolled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The
torque converter clutch engages in fourth gear, and
in third gear under various conditions, such as when
the O/D switch is OFF, when the vehicle is cruising
on a level surface after the vehicle has warmed up.
The torque converter clutch will disengage momen-
tarily when an increase in engine load is sensed by
the PCM, such as when the vehicle begins to go
uphill or the throttle pressure is increased. The
torque converter clutch feature increases fuel econ-
omy and reduces the transmission fluid temperature.
Since the overdrive clutch is applied in fourth gear
only and the direct clutch is applied in all ranges
except fourth gear, the transmission operation for
park, neutral, and first through third gear will be
described first. Once these powerflows are described,
the third to fourth shift sequence will be described.
1 - CONVERTER CLUTCH 15 - HOUSING
2 - TORQUE CONVERTER 16 - REAR BEARING
3 - OIL PUMP AND REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT ASSEMBLY 17 - OUTPUT SHAFT
4 - FRONT BAND 18 - SEAL
5 - FRONT CLUTCH 19 - OVERDRIVE OVERRUNNING CLUTCH
6 - DRIVING SHELL 20 - OVERDRIVE PLANETARY GEAR
7 - REAR BAND 21 - DIRECT CLUTCH SPRING
8 - TRANSMISSION OVERRUNNING CLUTCH 22 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH PISTON
9 - OVERDRIVE UNIT 23 - VALVE BODY ASSEMBLY
10 - PISTON RETAINER 24 - FILTER
11 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH 25 - FRONT PLANETARY GEAR
12 - DIRECT CLUTCH 26 - REAR CLUTCH
13 - INTERMEDIATE SHAFT 27 - TRANSMISSION
14 - FRONT BEARING 28 - REAR PLANETARY GEAR
Fig. 2 Transmission Part And Serial Number
Location
1 - PART NUMBER
2 - BUILD DATE
3 - SERIAL NUMBER
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 5
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)

leaks are generally deposited on the housing and not
on the converter.
TORQUE CONVERTER LEAK POINTS
Possible sources of converter leaks are:
(1) Leaks at the weld joint around the outside
diameter weld (Fig. 12).
(2) Leaks at the converter hub weld (Fig. 12).
CONVERTER HOUSING AREA LEAK CORRECTION
(1) Remove converter.
(2) Tighten front band adjusting screw until band
is tight around front clutch retainer. This prevents
front/rear clutches from coming out when oil pump is
removed.
(3) Remove oil pump and remove pump seal.
Inspect pump housing drainback and vent holes for
obstructions. Clear holes with solvent and wire.
(4) Inspect pump bushing and converter hub. If
bushing is scored, replace it. If converter hub is
scored, either polish it with crocus cloth or replace
converter.(5) Install new pump seal, O-ring, and gasket.
Replace oil pump if cracked, porous or damaged in
any way. Be sure to loosen the front band before
installing the oil pump, damage to the oil pump seal
may occur if the band is still tightened to the front
clutch retainer.
(6) Loosen kickdown lever pin access plug three
turns. Apply LoctiteŸ 592, or PermatextNo.2to
plug threads and tighten plug to 17 N´m (150 in. lbs.)
torque.
(7) Adjust front band.
(8) Lubricate pump seal and converter hub with
transmission fluid or petroleum jelly and install con-
verter.
(9) Install transmission and converter housing
dust shield.
(10) Lower vehicle.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - DIAGNOSIS
CHARTS
The diagnosis charts provide additional reference
when diagnosing a transmission fault. The charts
provide general information on a variety of transmis-
sion, overdrive unit and converter clutch fault condi-
tions.
The hydraulic flow charts in the Schematics and
Diagrams section of this group, outline fluid flow and
hydraulic circuitry. Circuit operation is provided for
PARK, NEUTRAL, FIRST, SECOND, THIRD,
FOURTH, MANUAL FIRST, MANUAL SECOND,
and REVERSE gear ranges. Normal working pres-
sures are also supplied for each of the gear ranges.
Fig. 11 Converter Housing Leak Paths
1 - PUMP SEAL
2 - PUMP VENT
3 - PUMP BOLT
4 - PUMP GASKET
5 - CONVERTER HOUSING
6 - CONVERTER
7 - REAR MAIN SEAL LEAK
Fig. 12 Converter Leak Points - Typical
1 - OUTSIDE DIAMETER WELD
2 - TORQUE CONVERTER HUB WELD
3 - STARTER RING GEAR
4 - LUG
21 - 16 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42REWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)

OD THRUST PLATE SELECTION
(1) Place overdrive unit in vertical position. Mount
it on blocks, or in workbench with appropriate size
mounting hole cut into it. Be sure unit is facing
upward for access to direct clutch hub. Also be sure
output shaft is not loaded and internal components
are moved rearward for accurate measurement.
(2) Determine correct thickness overdrive piston
thrust plate as follows:(a) Position Gauge Tool 6311 across face of over-
drive case. Then position Dial Caliper C-4962 over
gauge tool (Fig. 185).
(b) Measure distance to clutch hub thrust bear-
ing seat at four points 90É apart. Then average
measurements by adding them and dividing by 4.
(c) Select and install required thrust plate from
information in thrust plate chart (Fig. 186).
Fig. 181 42RE Overdrive Clutch Components
1 - REACTION PLATE 2 - PRESSURE PLATE
Fig. 182 Overdrive Clutch Pack Retaining Ring
Installation
1 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH PACK RETAINING RING
Fig. 183 Shaft End Play Measurement
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6312
2 - SPECIAL TOOL 6311
3 - SPECIAL TOOL C-4962
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 103
OVERDRIVE UNIT (Continued)

INSTALLATION........................253
OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................254
OPERATION..........................254
REMOVAL............................254
INSTALLATION........................254
OVERDRIVE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION........................254
OPERATION..........................254
PARK LOCK CABLE
REMOVAL............................255
INSTALLATION........................255
PISTONS
DESCRIPTION........................256
OPERATION..........................256
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN
DESCRIPTION........................258
OPERATION..........................260
DISASSEMBLY........................260
CLEANING...........................260
INSPECTION.........................260
ASSEMBLY...........................261
SHIFT MECHANISM
DESCRIPTION........................261
OPERATION..........................261
REMOVAL............................261
INSTALLATION........................263
SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE
DESCRIPTION........................263
OPERATION..........................263
SOLENOIDS
DESCRIPTION........................263OPERATION..........................264
TORQUE CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION........................264
OPERATION..........................268
REMOVAL............................269
INSTALLATION........................269
TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
DESCRIPTION........................270
OPERATION..........................270
TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................270
OPERATION..........................270
TRANSMISSION SOLENOID/TRS ASSEMBLY
DESCRIPTION........................271
OPERATION..........................271
REMOVAL............................272
INSTALLATION........................272
TRANSMISSION TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................272
OPERATION..........................272
VALVE BODY
DESCRIPTION........................273
OPERATION..........................273
REMOVAL............................274
DISASSEMBLY........................275
CLEANING...........................277
INSPECTION.........................277
ASSEMBLY...........................278
INSTALLATION........................279
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION -
545RFE
DESCRIPTION
The 545RFE automatic transmission is a sophisti-
cated, multi-range, electronically controlled transmis-
sion which combines optimized gear ratios for
responsive performance, state of the art efficiency
features and low NVH. Other features include driver
adaptive shifting and three planetary gear sets to
provide wide ratio capability with precise ratio steps
for optimum driveability. The three planetary gear
sets also make available a unique alternate second
gear ratio. The primary 2nd gear ratio fits between
1st and 3rd gears for normal through-gear accelera-
tions. The alternate second gear ratio (2prime) allows
smoother 4-2 kickdowns at high speeds to provide
2nd gear passing performance over a wider highway
cruising range. An additional overdrive ratio (0.67:1)
is also provided for greater fuel economy and less
NVH at highway speeds.The hydraulic portion of the transmission consists
of the transmission fluid, fluid passages, hydraulic
valves, and various line pressure control components.
The primary mechanical components of the trans-
mission consist of the following:
²Three multiple disc input clutches
²Three multiple disc holding clutches
²Five hydraulic accumulators
²Three planetary gear sets
²Dual Stage Hydraulic oil pump
²Valve body
²Solenoid pack
The TCM is the ªheartº or ªbrainº of the electronic
control system and relies on information from vari-
ous direct and indirect inputs (sensors, switches, etc.)
to determine driver demand and vehicle operating
conditions. With this information, the TCM can cal-
culate and perform timely and quality shifts through
various output or control devices (solenoid pack,
transmission control relay, etc.).
21 - 178 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ

TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION
Transmission identification numbers are stamped
on the left side of the case just above the oil pan
sealing surface (Fig. 1). Refer to this information
when ordering replacement parts. A label is attached
to the transmission case above the stamped numbers.
The label gives additional information which may
also be necessary for identification purposes.
GEAR RATIOS The 545RFE gear ratios are:
1st .................................3.00:1
2nd.................................1.67:1
2nd Prime............................1.50:1
3rd .................................1.00:1
4th .................................0.75:1
5th .................................0.67:1
Reverse..............................3.00:1
OPERATION
The 545RFE offers full electronic control of all auto-
matic up and downshifts, and features real-time adap-
tive closed-loop shift and pressure control. Electronic
shift and torque converter clutch controls help protect
the transmission from damage due to high tempera-
tures, which can occur under severe operating condi-
tions. By altering shift schedules, line pressure, and
converter clutch control, these controls reduce heat gen-
eration and increase transmission cooling.
To help reduce efficiency-robbing parasitic losses,
the transmission includes a dual-stage transmission
fluid pump with electronic output pressure control.
Under most driving conditions, pump output pres-
sure greatly exceeds that which is needed to keep the
clutches applied. The 545RFE pump-pressure controlsystem monitors input torque and adjusts the pump
pressure accordingly. The primary stage of the pump
works continuously; the second stage is bypassed
when demand is low. The control system also moni-
tors input and output speed and, if incipient clutch
slip is observed, the pressure control solenoid duty
cycle is varied, increasing pressure in proportion to
demand.
A high-travel torque converter damper assembly
allows earlier torque converter clutch engagement to
reduce slippage. Needle-type thrust bearings reduce
internal friction. The 545RFE is packaged in a one-
piece die-cast aluminum case. To reduce NVH, the
case has high lateral, vertical and torsional stiffness.
It is also designed to maximize the benefit of the
structural dust cover that connects the bottom of the
bell housing to the engine bedplate, enhancing over-
all power train stiffness. Dual filters protect the
pump and other components. A pump return filter is
added to the customary main sump filter. Indepen-
dent lubrication and cooler circuits assure ample
pressure for normal transmission operation even if
the cooler is obstructed or the fluid cannot flow due
to extremely low temperatures.
The hydraulic control system design (without elec-
tronic assist) provides the transmission with PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, SECOND, and THIRD gears,
based solely on driver shift lever selection. This
design allows the vehicle to be driven (in ªlimp-inº
mode) in the event of a electronic control system fail-
ure, or a situation that the Transmission Control
Module (TCM) recognizes as potentially damaging to
the transmission.
The TCM also performs certain self-diagnostic
functions and provides comprehensive information
(sensor data, DTC's, etc.) which is helpful in proper
diagnosis and repair. This information can be viewed
with the DRB scan tool.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
CAUTION: Before attempting any repair on a
545RFE automatic transmission, check for Diagnos-
tic Trouble Codes with the DRBTscan tool.
Transmission malfunctions may be caused by these
general conditions:
²Poor engine performance
²Improper adjustments
²Hydraulic malfunctions
²Mechanical malfunctions
²Electronic malfunctions
Fig. 1 Transmission Part And Serial Number
Location
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 179
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)

(23) Install the reverse clutch pack into the input
clutch retainer (Fig. 77).
(24) Install the reverse reaction plate into the
input clutch retainer.
(25) Install the reverse reaction plate selective
snap-ring into the input clutch retainer.
(26) Mount a dial indicator to the assembly, push
down on the clutch discs, pull up on the reaction
plate to ensure the plate is properly seated and zero
the indicator against the reverse clutch discs (Fig.
81). Apply 20 psi of air pressure to the reverse clutch
and record the dial indicator reading. Measure and
record Reverse clutch pack measurement in four (4)
places, 90É apart. Take average of four measurements
and compare with Reverse clutch pack clearance
specification. The correct clutch clearance is 0.58-1.47
mm (0.023-0.058 in.). Adjust as necessary. Install the
chosen snap-ring and re-measure to verify selection.
(27) Remove the reverse clutch pack from the
input clutch retainer.
(28) Install the number 2 bearing onto the under-
drive hub with outer race against the hub with petro-
leum jelly.
(29) Install the underdrive hub into the input
clutch retainer.
(30) Install the number 3 bearing into the over-
drive hub with the outer race against the hub with
petroleum jelly.
(31) Install the overdrive hub into the input clutch
retainer.
(32) Install the number 4 bearing into the reverse
hub with outer race against the hub with petroleum
jelly.(33) Install the reverse hub into the input clutch
retainer.
(34) Install the complete reverse clutch pack.
(35) Install the reverse reaction plate and snap-
ring.
(36) Push up on reaction plate to allow reverse
clutch to move freely.
INPUT SPEED SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Input and Output Speed Sensors are two-wire
magnetic pickup devices that generate AC signals as
rotation occurs. They are mounted in the left side of
the transmission case and are considered primary
inputs to the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
OPERATION
The Input Speed Sensor provides information on
how fast the input shaft is rotating. As the teeth of
the input clutch hub pass by the sensor coil, an AC
voltage is generated and sent to the TCM. The TCM
interprets this information as input shaft rpm.
The Output Speed Sensor generates an AC signal
in a similar fashion, though its coil is excited by rota-
tion of the rear planetary carrier lugs. The TCM
interprets this information as output shaft rpm.
The TCM compares the input and output speed
signals to determine the following:
²Transmission gear ratio
²Speed ratio error detection
²CVI calculation
The TCM also compares the input speed signal and
the engine speed signal to determine the following:
²Torque converter clutch slippage
²Torque converter element speed ratio
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Place a suitable fluid catch pan under the
transmission.
(3) Remove the wiring connector from the input
speed sensor (Fig. 82).
(4) Remove the bolt holding the input speed sensor
to the transmission case.
(5) Remove the input speed sensor from the trans-
mission case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the input speed sensor into the trans-
mission case.
(2) Install the bolt to hold the input speed sensor
into the transmission case. Tighten the bolt to 11.9
N´m (105 in.lbs.).
Fig. 81 Measuring Reverse Clutch Clearance
1 - TOOL C-3339
2 - REVERSE CLUTCH PACK
21 - 244 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY (Continued)

(3) Install the wiring connector onto the input
speed sensor
(4) Verify the transmission fluid level. Add fluid as
necessary.
(5) Lower vehicle.
LINE PRESSURE (LP) SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The TCM utilizes a closed-loop system to control
transmission line pressure. The system contains a
variable force style solenoid, the Pressure Control
Solenoid, mounted on the side of the solenoid and
pressure switch assembly. The solenoid is duty cycle
controlled by the TCM to vent the unnecessary line
pressure supplied by the oil pump back to the sump.
The system also contains a variable pressure style
sensor, the Line Pressure Sensor, which is a direct
input to the TCM. The line pressure solenoid moni-
tors the transmission line pressure and completes the
feedback loop to the TCM. The TCM uses this infor-
mation to adjust its control of the pressure control
solenoid to achieve the desired line pressure.
OPERATION
The TCM calculates the desired line pressure
based upon inputs from the transmission and engine.
The TCM calculates the torque input to the trans-
mission and uses that information as the primary
input to the calculation. The line pressure is set to a
predetermined value during shifts and when the
transmission is in the PARK and NEUTRAL posi-tions. This is done to ensure consistent shift quality.
During all other operation, the actual line pressure is
compared to the desired line pressure and adjust-
ments are made to the pressure control solenoid duty
cycle.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Place a suitable fluid catch pan under the
transmission.
(3) Remove the wiring connector from the line
pressure sensor (Fig. 83).
(4) Remove the bolt holding the line pressure sen-
sor to the transmission case.
(5) Remove the line pressure sensor from the
transmission case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the line pressure sensor into the trans-
mission case.
(2) Install the bolt to hold the line pressure sensor
into the transmission case. Tighten the bolt to 11.9
N´m (105 in.lbs.).
(3) Install the wiring connector onto the line pres-
sure sensor
(4) Verify the transmission fluid level. Add fluid as
necessary.
(5) Lower vehicle.
Fig. 82 Input Speed Sensor
1 - OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - LINE PRESSURE SENSOR
3 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
Fig. 83 Line Pressure Sensor
1 - OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - LINE PRESSURE SENSOR
3 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 245
INPUT SPEED SENSOR (Continued)

OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Input and Output Speed Sensors are two-wire
magnetic pickup devices that generate AC signals as
rotation occurs. They are mounted in the left side of
the transmission case and are considered primary
inputs to the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
OPERATION
The Input Speed Sensor provides information on
how fast the input shaft is rotating. As the teeth of
the input clutch hub pass by the sensor coil, an AC
voltage is generated and sent to the TCM. The TCM
interprets this information as input shaft rpm.
The Output Speed Sensor generates an AC signal
in a similar fashion, though its coil is excited by rota-
tion of the rear planetary carrier lugs. The TCM
interprets this information as output shaft rpm.
The TCM compares the input and output speed
signals to determine the following:
²Transmission gear ratio
²Speed ratio error detection
²CVI calculation
The TCM also compares the input speed signal and
the engine speed signal to determine the following:
²Torque converter clutch slippage
²Torque converter element speed ratio
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Place a suitable fluid catch pan under the
transmission.
(3) Remove the wiring connector from the output
speed sensor (Fig. 96).
(4) Remove the bolt holding the output speed sen-
sor to the transmission case.
(5) Remove the output speed sensor from the
transmission case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the output speed sensor into the trans-
mission case.
(2) Install the bolt to hold the output speed sensor
into the transmission case. Tighten the bolt to 11.9
N´m (105 in.lbs.).
(3) Install the wiring connector onto the output
speed sensor
(4) Verify the transmission fluid level. Add fluid as
necessary.
(5) Lower vehicle.
OVERDRIVE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The overdrive OFF (control) switch is located in
the shifter handle. The switch is a momentary con-
tact device that signals the PCM to toggle current
status of the overdrive function.
OPERATION
At key-on, fourth and fifth gear operation is
allowed. Pressing the switch once causes the over-
drive OFF mode to be entered and the overdrive OFF
switch lamp to be illuminated. Pressing the switch a
second time causes normal overdrive operation to be
restored and the overdrive lamp to be turned off. The
overdrive OFF mode defaults to ON after the ignition
switch is cycled OFF and ON. The normal position
for the control switch is the ON position. The switch
must be in this position to energize the solenoids and
allow upshifts to fourth and fifth gears. The control
switch indicator light illuminates only when the over-
drive switch is turned to the OFF position, or when
illuminated by the transmission control module.
Fig. 96 Output Speed Sensor
1 - OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - LINE PRESSURE SENSOR
3 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
21 - 254 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ

(8) Install the transmission in the vehicle.
(9) Fill the transmission with the recommended
fluid.
TRANSMISSION CONTROL
RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The relay is supplied fused B+ voltage, energized
by the TCM, and is used to supply power to the sole-
noid pack when the transmission is in normal oper-
ating mode.
OPERATION
When the relay is ªoffº, no power is supplied to the
solenoid pack and the transmission is in ªlimp-inº
mode. After a controller reset, the TCM energizes the
relay. Prior to this, the TCM verifies that the con-
tacts are open by checking for no voltage at the
switched battery terminals. After this is verified, the
voltage at the solenoid pack pressure switches is
checked. After the relay is energized, the TCM mon-
itors the terminals to verify that the voltage is
greater than 3 volts.
TRANSMISSION RANGE
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) is part of
the solenoid module, which is mounted to the top of
the valve body inside the transmission.
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) has five
switch contact pins that:
²Determine shift lever position
²Supply ground to the Starter Relay in Park and
Neutral only.
²Supply +12 V to the backup lamps in Reverse
only.
The TRS also has an integrated temperature sen-
sor (thermistor) that communicates transmission
temperature to the TCM and PCM.
OPERATION
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) communi-
cates shift lever position to the TCM as a combina-
tion of open and closed switches. Each shift lever
position has an assigned combination of switch states
(open/closed) that the TCM receives from four sense
circuits. The TCM interprets this information and
determines the appropriate transmission gear posi-
tion and shift schedule.
There are many possible combinations of open and
closed switches (codes). Seven of these possible codes
are related to gear position and five are recognized
as ªbetween gearº codes. This results in many codes
which shouldnever occur. These are called
ªinvalidº codes. An invalid code will result in a DTC,
and the TCM will then determine the shift lever
position based on pressure switch data. This allows
reasonably normal transmission operation with a
TRS failure.
GEAR C5 C4 C3 C2 C1
ParkCL OP OP CL CL
Temp 1CL OP OP CL OP
ReverseOP OP OP CL OP
Temp 2OP OP CL CL OP
Neutral 1OP OP CL CL CL
Neutral 2OP CL CL CL CL
Temp 3OP CL CL CL OP
DriveOP CL CL OP OP
Temp 4OP CL OP OP OP
Manual 2CL CL OP OP OP
Temp 5CL OP OP OP OP
Manual 1CL OP CL OP OP
Fig. 117 Checking Torque Converter Seating-Typical
1 - SCALE
2 - STRAIGHTEDGE
21 - 270 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
TORQUE CONVERTER (Continued)

TRANSMISSION SOLENOID/
TRS ASSEMBLY
DESCRIPTION
The transmission solenoid/TRS assembly is inter-
nal to the transmission and mounted on the valve
body assembly (Fig. 118). The assembly consists of
six solenoids that control hydraulic pressure to the
six friction elements (transmission clutches), and the
torque converter clutch. The pressure control sole-
noid is located on the side of the solenoid/TRS assem-
bly. The solenoid/TRS assembly also contains five
pressure switches that feed information to the TCM.
OPERATION
SOLENOIDS
Solenoids are used to control the L/R, 2C, 4C, OD,
and UD friction elements. The reverse clutch is con-
trolled by line pressure and the position of the man-
ual valve in the valve body. All the solenoids are
contained within the Solenoid and Pressure Switch
Assembly. The solenoid and pressure switch assembly
contains one additional solenoid, Multi-Select (MS),
which serves primarily to provide 2nd and 3rd gear
limp-in operation.The solenoids receive electrical power from the
Transmission Control Relay through a single wire.
The TCM energizes or operates the solenoids individ-
ually by grounding the return wire of the solenoid as
necessary. When a solenoid is energized, the solenoid
valve shifts, and a fluid passage is opened or closed
(vented or applied), depending on its default operat-
ing state. The result is an apply or release of a fric-
tional element.
The MS and UD solenoids are normally applied to
allow transmission limp-in in the event of an electri-
cal failure.
The continuity of the solenoids and circuits are
periodically tested. Each solenoid is turned on or off
depending on its current state. An inductive spike
should be detected by the TCM during this test. If no
spike is detected, the circuit is tested again to verify
the failure. In addition to the periodic testing, the
solenoid circuits are tested if a speed ratio or pres-
sure switch error occurs.
PRESSURE SWITCHES
The TCM relies on five pressure switches to moni-
tor fluid pressure in the L/R, 2C, 4C, UD, and OD
hydraulic circuits. The primary purpose of these
switches is to help the TCM detect when clutch cir-
cuit hydraulic failures occur. The switches close at 23
psi and open at 11 psi, and simply indicate whether
or not pressure exists. The switches are continuously
monitored by the TCM for the correct states (open or
closed) in each gear as shown in the following chart:
GEAR L/R 2C 4C UD OD
ROP OP OP OP OP
P/NCL OP OP OP OP
1STCL* OP OP CL OP
2NDOP CL OP CL OP
2ND
PRIMEOP OP CL CL OP
DOP OP OP CL CL
4THOP OP CL OP CL
5THOP CL OP OP CL
*L/R is closed if output speed is below 100 rpm in
Drive and Manual 2. L/R is open in Manual 1.
A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will set if the
TCM senses any switch open or closed at the wrong
time in a given gear.
Fig. 118 Transmission Solenoid/TRS Assembly
1 - PRESSURE CONTROL SOLENOID
2 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SELECTOR PLATE
3 - 23-WAY CONNECTOR
4 - SOLENOID PACK
5 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
6 - VALVE BODY
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 271