1996 CHRYSLER VOYAGER oil type

GEARSHIFT AND PARKING LOCK CONTROLS
The transaxle is controlled by a lever type gear-
shift incorporated within the steering column. The
control has six selector lever positions: P (park), R
(reverse), N (neutral), and D (drive), 2 (second), and
1 (first). The parking lock is applied by moving the
selector lever past a gate to the P position.Do not
apply the parking lock until the vehicle has
stopped; otherwise, a severe ratchet noise will
occur.
TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH SOLENOID WIRING
CONNECTOR
If wiring connector is unplugged, the torque con-
verter will not engage (Fig. 1) .
GOVERNOR
The governor may be serviced by removing the
transaxle oil pan and valve body assembly. The gov-
ernor may be unbolted from the governor support
and removed from the transaxle for reconditioning or
replacement.
When cleaning or assembling the governor, make
sure the governor valves move freely in the bores of
the governor body.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
THREE SPEED TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTS
Automatic transaxle malfunctions may be caused
by four general conditions:
(1) Poor engine performance
(2) Improper adjustments
(3) Hydraulic malfunctions
(4) Mechanical malfunctionsDiagnosis of these problems should always begin
by checking the easily accessible variables; fluid level
and condition, gearshift cable adjustment, and throt-
tle pressure cable adjustment. Then perform a road
test to determine if the problem has been corrected
or that more diagnosis is necessary. If the problem
exists after the preliminary tests and corrections are
completed, hydraulic pressure tests should be per-
formed
31TH HYDRAULIC TROUBLE CODE CHARTS
The following charts should be used to help diag-
nose hydraulic or mechanical faults in the transaxle .
ROAD TEST
Prior to performing a road test, check the fluid
level, and control cable adjustments.
During the road test, the transaxle should be oper-
ated in each position to check for slipping and any
variation in shifting.
If vehicle operates at high speeds, but has poor
acceleration, the converter's overrunning clutch may
be slipping. If acceleration is normal, but high throt-
tle opening is needed for high speeds, the stator
clutch may have seized.
Observe closely for slipping or engine speed flare-
up. Slipping or flare-up in any gear usually indicates
clutch, band, or overrunning clutch problems. If the
condition is far advanced, an overhaul will probably
be necessary to restore normal operation.
In most cases, the clutch or band that is slipping
can be determined by noting the transaxle operation
in all selector positions. Then comparing which inter-
nal units are applied in those positions. The Ele-
ments in Use Chart provides a basis for road test
analysis .
The rear clutch is applied in both the D first gear
and 1 first gear positions. Also the overrunning
clutch is applied in D first gear and the low/reverse
band is applied in 1 first gear position. If the tran-
saxle slips in D range first gear, but does not slip in
1 first gear, the overrunning clutch is slipping. Simi-
larly, if the transaxle slips in any two forward gears,
the rear clutch is slipping.
Using the same procedure, the rear clutch and
front clutch are applied in D third gear. If the tran-
saxle slips in third gear, either the front clutch or the
rear clutch is slipping. By selecting another gear
which does not use one of those units, the unit which
is slipping can be determined. If the transaxle also
slips in reverse, the front clutch is slipping. If the
transaxle does not slip in reverse, the rear clutch is
slipping.
The process of eliminating can be used to detect
any unit which slips and to confirm proper operation
of good units. Road testing can usually diagnose slip-
ping units. Although the actual cause of the problem
Fig. 1 Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Wiring
Connector
21 - 4 TRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNITNS
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

SERVICE PROCEDURES
FLUID AND FILTER CHANGE
When the factory fill fluid is changed, only fluids
labeled MOPARtATF PLUS 3 (Automatic Transmis-
sion fluid) Type 7176 should be used.
If the transaxle is disassembled for any reason, the
fluid and filter should be changed.
30,000 MILE TRANSAXLE OIL CHANGE
When a vehicle attains 30,000 miles on its odome-
ter it is recommended that the transaxle oil be
changed. To change the oil, use the procedure that
follows:
It is recommended that a transaxle fluid exchanger
(ATF 2000+ or equivalent) be used to replace the
used fluid in the transaxle. If a fluid exchanger is not
available use a fluid suction pump (Vaculayor equiv-
alent) to draw the fluid out of the dipstick tube. If a
fluid suction pump is not available remove the oil
pan and drain the fluid.
CAUTION: Chrysler Corporation does not recom-
mend using any fluid exchanger that introduces
additives into the transaxle.TRANSAXLE FLUID EXCHANGER METHOD
(1) To perform the transaxle fluid exchange, the
transaxle must be at operating temperature. Drive
the vehicle till it reaches full operating temperature.
(2) Verify that the fill tank on the transaxle fluid
exchanger (ATF 2000+ or equivalent) is clean and
dry.
(3) Fill the tank to the recommended fill capacity
with Mopar ATF Plus 3 Type 7176.
(4) Hookup the vehicle to the machine following
the manufacturers instructions. Perform the
exchange procedure following the instructions pro-
vided with the machine.
(5) Once machine has completed the fluid
exchange. Check the fluid level and condition and fill
to proper level with Mopar ATF Plus 3 Type 7176.
NOTE: Verify that the transaxle cooler lines are
tightened to proper specifications. Cooler line
torque specification is 2 N²m (18 in. lbs.).
DIPSTICK TUBE FLUID SUCTION METHOD
(1) When performing the fluid suction method,
make sure the transaxle is at full operating temper-
ature.
Fig. 4 Air Pressure Tests
21 - 16 TRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNITNS
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

(2) To perform the dipstick tube fluid suction
method, use a suitable fluid suction device (Vaculay
or equivalent).
(3) Insert the fluid suction line into the dipstick
tube.
NOTE: Verify that the suction line is inserted to the
lowest point of the transaxle oil pan. This will
ensure complete evacuation of the fluid in the pan.
(4) Follow the manufacturers recommended proce-
dure and evacuate the fluid from the transaxle.
(5) Remove the suction line from the dipstick tube.
(6) Add 4 Quarts of Mopar ATF Plus 3 Type 7176
transaxle fluid.
(7) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(8) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is at
normal operating temperature. The level should be in
the HOT range.
TRANSAXLE OIL PAN DROP METHOD
This procedure involves removing the transaxle oil
pan to drain the transaxle fluid.
(1) Bring the vehicle up to normal operating tem-
perature. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10 miles.
(2) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(3) Loosen the transaxle oil pan and drain the
fluid into a suitable container.
(4) Remove the pan and clean all sealant from the
pan and transaxle mating surfaces. Clean the mag-
net and the inside of the pan.
(5) Apply a 1/8 inch bead of Mopar RTV Sealant to
the mounting flange of the transaxle oil pan. Apply
RTV Sealant to the underside of the attaching bolts.
Attach the oil pan to the transaxle. Tighten the bolts
to 19 N²m (165 in. lbs.).
(6) Lower the vehicle and add 4 Quarts of Mopar
ATF Plus 3 Type 7176 transaxle fluid.
(7) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(8) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is at
normal operating temperature. The level should be inthe HOT range. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10
miles.
(10) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(11) Check for leaks around the transaxle oil pan
sealing surfaces.
(12) Recheck the fluid level. The level should be in
the HOT range.
SEVERE USAGE SERVICE
If the vehicle exhibits any of the following symp-
toms, it is recommended that the transaxle oil and
filter be replaced.
²Transaxle oil discolored
²Transaxle oil has high mileage
²Oil feels grimy when rubbed between fingertips
²Poor shift quality
²Delayed gear engagement
²Vehicle shudder between shifts
TRANSAXLE OIL AND FILTER REPLACEMENT
This procedure involves changing the transaxle
fluid and filter, driving the vehicle for 10 miles and
changing the transaxle fluid a second time.
(1) Bring the vehicle up to normal operating tem-
perature. Drive the vehicle a minimum of 10 miles.
(2) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
(3) Loosen the transaxle oil pan and drain the
fluid into a suitable container.
(4) Remove the pan and clean all sealant from the
pan and transaxle mating surfaces. Clean the mag-
net and the inside of the pan.
(5) Separate the filter and O-ring from the valve
body. Inspect the O-ring for cuts or improper instal-
lation. This could lead to delayed garage shifts.
(6) Install a new filter. Replace the O-ring as nec-
essary.
(7) Apply a 1/8 inch bead of Mopar RTV Sealant to
the mounting flange of the transaxle oil pan. Apply
RTV Sealant to the underside of the attaching bolts.
Attach the oil pan to the transaxle. Tighten the bolts
to 19 N²m (165 in. lbs.).
(8) Lower the vehicle and add 4 Quarts of Mopar
ATF Plus 3 Type 7176 transaxle fluid.
(9) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(10) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(11) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is
at normal operating temperature. The level should be
in the HOT range. Drive the vehicle a minimum of
10 miles.
(12) Raise the vehicle on the hoist.
NSTRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNIT 21 - 17
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

(13) Remove the pan and clean all sealant from
the pan and transaxle mating surfaces. Clean the
magnet and the inside of the pan.
(14) Separate the filter from the valve body to
allow additional fluid to drain from the transaxle.
Inspect the filter O-ring for any damage and replace
as necessary.
(15) After the transaxle has stopped draining,
reinstall the filter and O-ring.
(16) Apply a 1/8 inch bead of Mopar RTV Sealant
to the mounting flange of the transaxle oil pan.
Apply RTV Sealant to the underside of the attaching
bolts. Attach the oil pan to the transaxle. Tighten the
bolts to 19 N²m (165 in. lbs.).
(17) Lower the vehicle and add 4 Quarts of Mopar
ATF Plus 3 Type 7176 transaxle fluid.
(18) Start the engine and allow it to idle for a min-
imum of one minute. With the parking brake applied,
press your foot on the service brake and cycle the
transaxle from park to all gear positions ending in
neutral or park.
(19) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the ADD mark on the dip-
stick.
(20) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle is
at normal operating temperature. The level should be
in the HOT range.
FLUID DRAIN AND REFILL
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist (See Group 0, Lubrica-
tion). Place a drain container with a large opening,
under transaxle oil pan.
(2) Loosen pan bolts and tap the pan at one corner
to break it loose allowing fluid to drain, then remove
the oil pan.
(3) Install a new filter and gasket on bottom of the
valve body and tighten retaining screws to 5 N´m (40
inch-pounds).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new sealant. Tighten oil pan bolts to 19 N´m
(165 in. lbs.).
(5) Pour four quarts of Mopar ATF PLUS 3 (Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid) Type 7176 through the
dipstick opening.
(6) Start engine and allow to idle for at least one
minute. Then, with parking and service brakes
applied, move selector lever momentarily to each
position, ending in the park or neutral position.
(7) Add sufficient fluid to bring level to 1/8 inch
below the ADD mark.
(8) Recheck fluid level after transaxle is at normal
operating temperature. The level should be in the
HOT region.
ALUMINUM THREAD REPAIR
Damaged or worn threads in the aluminum transaxle
case and valve body can be repaired by the use of Heli-
Coils, or equivalent. This repair consists of drilling out
the worn-out damaged threads. Then tapping the hole
with a Heli-Coil tap, or equivalent, and installing a
Heli-Coil insert, or equivalent, into the hole. This
brings the hole back to its original thread size.
Heli-Coil, or equivalent, tools and inserts are readily
available from most automotive parts suppliers.
FLUSHING COOLERS AND TUBES
When a transaxle failure has contaminated the
fluid, the oil cooler(s) must be flushed. The cooler
bypass valve in the transaxle must be replaced also.
The torque converter must also be replaced with an
exchange unit. This will ensure that metal particles
or sludged oil are not later transferred back into the
reconditioned (or replaced) transaxle.
The recommended procedure for flushing the cool-
ers and tubes is to use Tool 6906A Cooler Flusher.
WARNING: WEAR PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR THAT
MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF OSHA AND ANSI
Z87.1±1968. WEAR STANDARD INDUSTRIAL RUB-
BER GLOVES.
KEEP LIGHTED CIGARETTES, SPARKS, FLAMES,
AND OTHER IGNITION SOURCES AWAY FROM THE
AREA TO PREVENT THE IGNITION OF COMBUSTI-
BLE LIQUIDS AND GASES. KEEP A CLASS (B) FIRE
EXTINGUISHER IN THE AREA WHERE THE
FLUSHER WILL BE USED.
KEEP THE AREA WELL VENTILATED.
DO NOT LET FLUSHING SOLVENT COME IN CON-
TACT WITH YOUR EYES OR SKIN: IF EYE CONTAM-
INATION OCCURS, FLUSH EYES WITH WATER FOR
15 TO 20 SECONDS. REMOVE CONTAMINATED
CLOTHING AND WASH AFFECTED SKIN WITH
SOAP AND WATER. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.
COOLER FLUSH USING TOOL 6906A
(1) Remove cover plate filler plug on Tool 6906A.
Fill reservoir 1/2 to 3/4 full of fresh flushing solution.
Flushing solvents are petroleum based solutions gen-
erally used to clean automatic transmission compo-
nents.DO NOTuse solvents containing acids, water,
gasoline, or any other corrosive liquids.
(2) Reinstall filler plug on Tool 6906A.
(3) Verify pump power switch is turned OFF. Con-
nect red alligator clip to positive (+) battery post.
Connect black (-) alligator clip to a good ground.
(4) Disconnect the cooler lines at the transmission.
NOTE: When flushing transmission cooler and
lines, ALWAYS reverse flush.
21 - 18 TRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNITNS
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

(5) Connect the BLUE pressure line to the OUT-
LET (From) cooler line.
(6) Connect the CLEAR return line to the INLET
(To) cooler line
(7) Turn pump ON for two to three minutes to
flush cooler(s) and lines. Monitor pressure readings
and clear return lines. Pressure readings should sta-
bilize below 20 psi. for vehicles equipped with a sin-
gle cooler and 30 psi. for vehicles equipped with dual
coolers. If flow is intermittent or exceeds these pres-
sures, replace cooler.
(8) Turn pump OFF.
(9) Disconnect CLEAR suction line from reservoir
at cover plate. Disconnect CLEAR return line at
cover plate, and place it in a drain pan.
(10) Turn pump ON for 30 seconds to purge flush-
ing solution from cooler and lines. Turn pump OFF.
(11) Place CLEAR suction line into a one quart
container of Mopar ATF Plus 3ttype 7176 automatic
transmission fluid.
(12) Turn pump ON until all transmission fluid is
removed from the one quart container and lines. This
purges any residual cleaning solvent from the trans-
mission cooler and lines. Turn pump OFF.
(13) Disconnect alligator clips from battery. Recon-
nect flusher lines to cover plate, and remove flushing
adapters from cooler lines.
OIL PUMP VOLUME CHECK
After the new or repaired transmission has been
installed, fill to the proper level with MopartAT F
PLUS 3 (Type 7176) automatic transmission fluid.
The volume should be checked using the following
procedure:
(1) Disconnect theFrom coolerline at the trans-
mission and place a collecting container under the
disconnected line.
CAUTION: With the fluid set at the proper level,
fluid collection should not exceed (1) quart or inter-
nal damage to the transmission may occur.
(2) Run the engineat curb idle speed, with the
shift selector in neutral.
(3) If fluid flow is intermittent or it takes more
than 20 seconds to collect one quart of ATF PLUS 3,
disconnect theTo Coolerline at the transaxle.
(4) Refill the transaxle to proper level and recheck
pump volume.
(5) If flow is found to be within acceptable limits,
replace the cooler. Then fill transmission to the
proper level, using MopartATF PLUS 3 (Type 7176)
automatic transmission fluid.
(6) If fluid flow is still found to be inadequate,
check the line pressure using the Transaxle Hydrau-
lic Pressure Test procedure.
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR PINION GEAR
When the sensor is removed for any reason, a
NEW O-ring must be installed on its outside diame-
ter.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove harness connector from sensor. Make
sure weatherseal stays on harness connector.
(2) Remove bolt securing the sensor in the exten-
sion housing.
(3) Carefully pull sensor and pinion gear assembly
out of extension housing.
(4) Remove pinion gear from sensor.
INSTALLATION
(1) To install, reverse the above procedure. Make
sure extension housing and sensor flange are clean
prior to installation. Always use a NEW sensor
O-ring.
(2) Tighten bolt to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.). Tighten
speedometer cable to 4 N´m (35 in. lbs.).
PARK/NEUTRAL STARTING AND BACK-UP LAMP
SWITCH
TEST
The park/neutral starting switch is the center ter-
minal of the 3 terminal switch. It provides ground for
the starter solenoid circuit through the selector lever
in only Park and Neutral positions.
(1) To test switch, remove wiring connector from
switch and test for continuity between center pin of
switch and transaxle case. Continuity should exist
only when transaxle is in Park or Neutral.
(2) Check gearshift cable adjustment before replac-
ing a switch which tests bad.
REMOVAL
(1) Unscrew switch from transaxle case allowing
fluid to drain into a container. Move selector lever to
Park, then to Neutral position, and inspect to see the
switch operating lever fingers are centered in switch
opening.
INSTALLATION
(1) Screw the switch with a new seal into tran-
saxle case and tighten to 33 N´m (24 ft. lbs.). Retest
switch with the test lamp.
(2) Add fluid to transaxle to bring up to proper
level.
(3) The back-up lamp switch circuit is through the
two outside terminals of the 3 terminal switch.
(4) To test switch, remove wiring connector from
switch and test for continuity between the two out-
side pins.
NSTRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNIT 21 - 19
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)

(5) Continuity should exist only with transaxle in
Reverse position.
(6) No continuity should exist from either pin to
the case.
TRANSAXLE AND TORQUE CONVERTER REMOVAL
NOTE: Transaxle removal does NOT require engine
removal.
The transaxle and torque converter must be
removed as an assembly; otherwise, the torque con-
verter drive plate, pump bushing, or oil seal may be
damaged. The drive plate will not support a load;
therefore, none of the weight of the transaxle should
be allowed to rest on the plate during removal.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable.
(2) Remove air cleaner and hoses.
(3) Disconnect throttle linkage and shift linkage
from transaxle.
(4) Unplug torque converter clutch connector,
located near the dipstick. Unplug the gear position
switch.
(5) Remove transaxle dipstick tube.
(6) Remove the transaxle cooler lines and plug.
(7) Install engine support fixture (Fig. 5) .
(8) Remove bell housing upper bolts.
(9) Raise vehicle. Remove front wheels. Refer to
Group 2, Suspension to remove or install wheel hub
nut and both drive shafts.
CAUTION: The exhaust flex joint must be discon-
nected from the exhaust manifold anytime the
engine is lowered. If the engine is lowered while the
flex pipe is attached, damage will occur.(10) Remove bolts securing exhaust flex joint to
exhaust manifold. Disconnect exhaust pipe from
manifold.
(11) Remove torque converter dust cover. Mark
torque converter and drive plate with chalk, for reas-
sembly. Rotate engine clockwise and remove torque
converter mounting bolts.
(12) Remove engine mount bracket from front
crossmember.
(13) Remove front mount insulator through-bolt
and bellhousing bolts.
(14) Position transaxle jack (Fig. 6) .
(15) Remove rear engine mount shield.
(16) Remove rear engine mount bracket bolts and
bracket.
(17) Remove left engine mount thru-bolt.
(18) Remove left engine mount from transaxle.
(19) Remove starter. Remove lower bell housing
bolts.
(20) Carefully work transaxle and torque converter
assembly rearward off engine block dowels and dis-
engage converter hub from end of crankshaft.Attach
a small C clamp to edge of bell housing. This
will hold torque converter in place during tran-
saxle removal.Lower transaxle and remove assem-
bly from under the vehicle.
(21) To remove torque converter assembly, remove
C±clamp from edge of bellhousing and slide converter
out of transaxle.
INSTALLATION
(1) When installing transaxle, reverse the above
procedure.
(2) If torque converter was removed from transaxle
be sure to align pump inner gear pilot flats with
torque converter impeller hub flats.
(3) Adjust gearshift and throttle cables.
(4) Refill transaxle with Mopar ATF PLUS 3
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type 7176.
Fig. 5 Engine Support Fixture
Fig. 6 Transaxle Jack
21 - 20 TRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNITNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

SPECIFICATIONS
31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
Type ................Automatic three speed with
torque converter and integral differential
Torque Converter Diameter........241 millimeters
(9.48 in.)
Oil Capacity..............8.6 Liters (18.25 pints)
OilType..........MopartATF PLUS 3 Type 7176
Cooling Method......Water Heat Exchanger and/or
air to oil heat exchanger
Lubrication......Pump (internal-external gear-type
Gear Ratios
Transmission Portion
First Gear..............................2.69
Second Gear.............................1.55
Third Gear..............................1.00
Reverse Gear............................2.10
Pump Clearances
Outer Gear To Pocket.............0.045-0.141mm
(0.0018-0.0056 in.)
Outer Gear Side Clearance.........0.020-0.046mm
(0.0008-0.0018 in.)
Inner Gear Side Clearance.........0.020-0.046mm
(0.0008-0.0018 in.)Tapered Roller Bearing Settings
Differential Assembly . . .6 to 12 in. lbs. Drag Torque
Output Hub............0to3in.lbs. Drag Torque
Transfer Shaft.........0.002 to 0.010 in. End Play
Overall Drag At Output
Hub.............3to16in.lbs. Drag Torque
Clutch Pack Clearances
Front Clutch (Not Adjustable)........1.27-2.79mm
(0.050-0.110 in.)
Rear Clutch.........0.71-1.10mm (0.028-0.043 in.)
Band Adjustment
Kickdown, Backed Off From 8 N´m
(72 in. lbs.).....................21/4Turns
Low-Reverse, Backed Off From 5 N´m
(41 in. lbs.)......................31/2Turns
21 - 64 TRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNITNS

OPERATION
The gear ratios for the 41TE transaxle are as fol-
lows:
²1stÐ2.84
²2ndÐ1.57
²3rdÐ1.00
²ODÐ0.69
²ReverseÐ2.21
Final Drive Ratio is dependent on which engine
option is selected.
²2.4 Liter: 3.91 FDR
²3.3 Liter: 3.62 FDR
²3.8 Liter: 3.45 FDR
The torque converter clutch is available in 2nd,
direct, or overdrive gear;. The shift lever is conven-
tional with six positions: P, R, N, OD, 3, and L avail-
able. When OD is selected the transaxle shifts
through all four speeds with torque converter clutch
available in overdrive. This position is recommended
for most driving. The 3 position is tailored for use in
hilly or mountainous driving. When 3 is selected, the
transmission uses only 1st, 2nd, and direct gears
with 2nd-direct shift delayed to 40 mph or greater.
When operating in 3 or L positions torque converter
clutch application occurs in direct gear. This
improves transmission cooling under heavy loads. If
high engine coolant temperature occurs, the torque
converter clutch will also engage in 2nd gear. The L
position provides maximum engine braking for
descending steep grades. Unlike most current tran-
saxles, upshifts are provided to 2nd or direct gear at
peak engine speeds if the accelerator is depressed.
This provides engine over-speed protection and max-
imum performance.
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION
NOTE: The transmission and differential sump have
a common oil sump with an opening between the
two.
The torque converter fills in both the (P) Park and
(N) Neutral positions. Place the selector lever in (P)
Park to check the fluid level.The engine should be
running at idle speed for at least one minute,
with the vehicle on level ground. This will
assure complete oil level stabilization between
differential and transmission.The fluid should be
at normal operating temperature (approximately 82
C. or 180 F.). The fluid level is correct if it is in the
HOTregion (cross-hatched area) on the oil level indi-
cator.
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 transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, the air bubbles can cause overheat-
ing, fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can inter-
fere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
and is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle overhaul is needed.
Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely.
If there is any doubt about its condition, drain out a
sample for a double check.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
SELECTION OF LUBRICANT
It is important that the proper lubricant be used in
the 41TE transaxle. MOPARtATF PLUS 3 (Auto-
matic Transmission FluidÐtype 7176) should be used
to aid in assuring optimum transmission perfor-
mance. Fluids of the type labeled DEXRON II Auto-
matic Transmission Fluid arenot recommended.It
is important that the transmission fluid be main-
tained at the prescribed level using the recommended
fluids.
SPECIAL ADDITIVES
Chrysler Corporation does not recommend the
addition of any fluids to the transaxle, other than the
fluid listed above. An exception to this policy is the
use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid leaks. The
use of transmission sealers should be avoided, since
they may adversely affect seals.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
CLUTCH AND GEAR
The transaxle consists of:
²Three multiple disc input clutches
²Two multiple disc grounded clutches
²Four hydraulic accumulators
²Two planetary gear sets
This provides four forward ratios and a reverse
ratio. The input clutch-apply pistons were designed
with centrifugally balanced oil cavities so that quick
response and good control can be achieved at any
speed. A push/pull piston is incorporated for two of
the three input clutches.
21 - 72 TRANSAXLE AND POWER TRANSFER UNITNS
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)