
below the minimum acceptable percentage, the PCM
stores a diagnostic trouble code in memory.
During certain idle conditions, the PCM may enter
a variable idle speed strategy. During variable idle
speed strategy the PCM adjusts engine speed based
on the following inputs.
²A/C sense
²Battery voltage
²Battery temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²Engine run time
²Power steering pressure switch
²Vehicle mileage
ACCELERATION MODE
This is a CLOSED LOOP mode. The PCM recog-
nizes an abrupt increase in Throttle Position sensor
output voltage or MAP sensor output voltage as a
demand for increased engine output and vehicle
acceleration. The PCM increases injector pulse width
in response to increased fuel demand.
DECELERATION MODE
This is a CLOSED LOOP mode. During decelera-
tion the following inputs are received by the PCM:
²A/C pressure transducer
²A/C sense
²Battery voltage
²Intake air temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²Crankshaft position (engine speed)
²Exhaust gas oxygen content (upstream heated
oxygen sensor)
²Knock sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Power steering pressure switch
²Throttle position
²IAC motor control changes in respones to MAP
sensor feedback
The PCM may receive a closed throttle input from
the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) when it senses an
abrupt decrease in manifold pressure. This indicates
a hard deceleration. In response, the PCM may
momentarily turn off the injectors. This helps
improve fuel economy, emissions and engine braking.
If decel fuel shutoff is detected, downstream oxy-
gen sensor diagnostics is performed.
WIDE-OPEN-THROTTLE MODE
This is an OPEN LOOP mode. During wide-open-
throttle operation, the following inputs are received
by the PCM:
²Intake air temperature
²Engine coolant temperature
²Engine speed
²Knock sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure²Throttle position
When the PCM senses a wide-open-throttle condi-
tion through the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) it de-
energizes the A/C compressor clutch relay. This
disables the air conditioning system.
The PCM does not monitor the heated oxygen sen-
sor inputs during wide-open-throttle operation except
for downstream heated oxygen sensor and both
shorted diagnostics. The PCM adjusts injector pulse
width to supply a predetermined amount of addi-
tional fuel.
IGNITION SWITCH OFF MODE
When the operator turns the ignition switch to the
OFF position, the following occurs:
²All outputs are turned off, unless 02 Heater
Monitor test is being run. Refer to Group 25,
On-Board Diagnostics.
²No inputs are monitored except for the heated
oxygen sensors. The PCM monitors the heating ele-
ments in the oxygen sensors and then shuts down.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
The PCM can test many of its own input and out-
put circuits. If the PCM senses a fault in a major
system, the PCM stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) in memory.
For DTC information, refer to Group 25, Emission
Control Systems. See On-Board Diagnostics.
POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
The power distribution center (PDC) is located next
to the battery (Fig. 1). The PDC contains the starter
relay, radiator fan relay, A/C compressor clutch relay,
auto shutdown relay, fuel pump relay and several
fuses.
Fig. 1 Power Distribution Center (PDC)
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 23
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a digital
computer containing a microprocessor (Fig. 2). The
PCM receives input signals from various switches
and sensors that are referred to as PCM Inputs.
Based on these inputs, the PCM adjusts various
engine and vehicle operations through devices that
are referred to as PCM Outputs.
PCM Inputs:
²Air Conditioning Controls
²Battery Voltage
²Battery Temperature Sensor
²Brake Switch
²Camshaft Position Sensor
²Crankshaft Position Sensor
²Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
²Fuel Level Sensor
²Ignition Switch
²Intake Air Temperature Sensor
²Knock Sensor
²Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
²Oxygen Sensors
²Power Steering Pressure Switch
²SCI Receive
²Speed Control Switches
²Throttle Position Sensor
²Transmission Park/Neutral Switch (automatic
transmission)
²Vehicle Speed Sensor
PCM Outputs:
²Air Conditioning WOT Relay
²Auto Shutdown (ASD) Relay
²Charging Indicator Lamp
²Data Link Connector
²Duty Cycle EVAP Canister Purge Solenoid
²EGR Solenoid
²Fuel Injectors
²Fuel Pump Relay²Generator Field
²Idle Air Control Motor
²Ignition Coils
²Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine) Lamp
²Radiator Fan Relay
²Speed Control Solenoids
²Tachometer
²Torque Convertor Clutch Solenoid
Based on inputs it receives, the PCM adjusts fuel
injector pulse width, idle speed, ignition spark
advance, ignition coil dwell and EVAP canister purge
operation. The PCM regulates the cooling fan, air
conditioning and speed control systems. The PCM
changes generator charge rate by adjusting the gen-
erator field. The PCM also performs diagnostics.
The PCM adjusts injector pulse width (air-fuel
ratio) based on the following inputs.
²Battery voltage
²Coolant temperature
²Intake air temperature
²Exhaust gas content (oxygen sensor)
²Engine speed (crankshaft position sensor)
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Throttle position
The PCM adjusts ignition timing based on the fol-
lowing inputs.
²Coolant temperature
²Intake air temperature
²Engine speed (crankshaft position sensor)
²Knock sensor
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Throttle position
²Transmission gear selection (park/neutral
switch)
The PCM also adjusts engine idle speed through
the idle air control motor based on the following
inputs.
²Air conditioning sense
²Battery voltage
²Battery temperature
²Brake switch
²Coolant temperature
²Engine speed (crankshaft position sensor)
²Engine run time
²Manifold absolute pressure
²Power steering pressure switch
²Throttle position
²Transmission gear selection (park/neutral
switch)
²Vehicle distance (speed)
The Auto Shutdown (ASD) and fuel pump relays
are mounted externally, but turned on and off by the
PCM.
The crankshaft position sensor signal is sent to the
PCM. If the PCM does not receive the signal within
approximately one second of engine cranking, it deac-
Fig. 2 Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
14 - 24 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

The vehicle speed sensor generates 8 pulses per
sensor revolution. These signals, in conjunction with
a closed throttle signal from the throttle position sen-
sor, indicate a closed throttle deceleration to the
PCM. Under deceleration conditions, the PCM
adjusts the Idle Air Control (IAC) motor to maintain
a desired MAP value.
When the vehicle is stopped at idle, a closed throt-
tle signal is received by the PCM (but a speed sensor
signal is not received). Under idle conditions, the
PCM adjusts the IAC motor to maintain a desired
engine speed.
The vehicle speed sensor signal is also used to
operate the following functions or systems:
²Speedometer
²Speed control²Daytime Running Lights (Canadian Vehicles
only).AIR CONDITIONING CLUTCH RELAYÐPCM
OUTPUT
The PCM controls the air conditioning clutch relay
ground circuit. The A/C clutch relay coil side contains
a 10 amp fuse between the buss bar in the Power
Distribution Center (PDC) and the relay. The power
side of this relay is fused with a 40 amp fuse. When
the PCM receives an air conditioning input, it
grounds the A/C compressor clutch relay and the
radiator fan relay.
When the PCM senses low idle speeds or wide open
throttle through the throttle position sensor, it
removes the ground for the A/C compressor clutch
relay. When the relay de-energizes, the contacts open
preventing air conditioning clutch engagement. Also,
if the PCM senses a part throttle launch condition, it
Fig. 18 Throttle Position Sensor and Idle Air Control
MotorÐSOHC
Fig. 19 Throttle Position Sensor and Idle Air Control
MotorÐDOHC
Fig. 20 Vehicle Speed SensorÐAutomatic
Transmission
Fig. 21 Vehicle Speed SensorÐManual
Transmission
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 31
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

send incorrect signals. The PCM substitutes for the
incorrect signals with inputs from other sensors.
If the PCM detects active engine misfire severe
enough to cause catalyst damage, it flashes the MIL.
At the same time the PCM also sets a Diagnostic
Trouble Code (DTC).
For signals that can trigger the MIL (Check
Engine Lamp) refer to Group 25, On-Board
Dianostics.
SOLID STATE FAN RELAYÐPCM OUTPUT
The radiator fan runs when coolant temperature
and A/C system pressure demand cooling. The radia-
tor fan circuit contains a Solid State Fan Relay
(SSFR). Refer to the Group 8W for a circuit sche-
matic.
A 5 volt signal is supplied to the SSFR. The PCM
provides a pulsed ground for the SSFR. Depending
upon the amount of pulse on time, the SSFR puts out
a proportional voltage to the fan motor at the lower
speed. For instance, if the on time is 30 percent, then
the voltage to the fan motor will be 3.6 volts.
When engine coolant reaches approximately 99ÉC
(210ÉF) the PCM grounds the SSFR relay. When the
PCM grounds the relay it operates at a 30% duty
cycle and immediately ramps up to 100% duty cycle.
The PCM de-energizes the SSFR relay when coolant
temperature drops to approximately 93ÉC (199ÉF).
Also, when the air conditioning pressure switch
closes, the PCM grounds the SSFR. The air condi-
tioning switch closes at 285 psi610 psi. When air
conditioning pressure drops approximately 40 psi, the
pressure switch opens and the fan turns off.
The SSFR relay is located on the left front inner
frame just behind the radiator.
SPEED CONTROLÐPCM INPUT
The speed control system provides five separate
voltages (inputs) to the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The voltages correspond to the ON/OFF, SET,
RESUME and CANCEL.
The speed control ON voltage informs the PCM
that the speed control system has been activated.
The speed control SET voltage informs the PCM that
a fixed vehicle speed has been selected. The speed
control RESUME voltage indicates the previous fixed
speed is requested. The speed control CANCEL volt-
age tells the PCM to deactivate but retain set speed
in memory (same as depressing the brake pedal). The
speed control OFF voltage tells the PCM that the
speed control system has deactivated. Refer to Group
8H for more speed control information.
SCI RECEIVEÐPCM OUTPUT
SCI Receive is the serial data communication
receive circuit for the DRB scan tool. The Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) receives data from the DRB
through the SCI Receive circuit.
TACHOMETERÐPCM OUTPUT
The PCM operates the tachometer on the instru-
ment panel. The PCM calculates engine RPM from
the crankshaft position sensor input.
TORQUE CONVERTOR CLUTCH SOLENOIDÐPCM
OUTPUT
Three-speed automatic transaxles use a torque con-
verter clutch solenoid. The PCM controls the engage-
ment of the torque converter clutch through the
solenoid (Fig. 29). The torque converter clutch is
engaged up only in direct drive mode. Refer to Group
21 for transmission information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VISUAL INSPECTIONÐSOHC
Before diagnosing or servicing the fuel injection
system, perform a visual inspection for loose, discon-
nected, or misrouted wires and hoses (Fig. 30). A
thorough visual inspection that includes the following
checks saves unnecessary test and diagnostic time.
(1) Inspect the battery connections. Clean corroded
terminals (Fig. 31).
(2) Check the 2 PCM 40-way connector for
stretched wires on pushed out terminals (Fig. 31).
Fig. 29 Torque Convertor Clutch Solenoid
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 35
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

(10) Inspect the electrical and hose connections at
the duty cycle purge solenoid (Fig. 39).(11) Check the electrical connection to the radiator
fan.
(12) Inspect for corrosion on the electrical connec-
tions at the starter motor solenoid. Check the ground
cable connection below the starter motor (Fig. 40).
(13) Inspect the air cleaner filter element. Replace
as necessary. Check the air induction system for
restrictions.
Fig. 35 PCV Valve
Fig. 36 MAP/Intake Air Temperature Sensor
Fig. 37 Fuel Injectors
Fig. 38 Ignition Coil and Spark PlugsÐTypical
PLFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 37
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

(6) Check hose connections between the PCV
valve, vacuum port - intake manifold and the oil sep-
arator (Fig. 58).
(7) Inspect the electrical connections at the MAP
sensor/intake air temperature sensor and the (Fig.
59).
(8) Inspect the fuel injector electrical connections
(Fig. 60).
(9) Inspect the ignition coil electrical connector.
Ensure the spark plug insulators are firmly seated
over the spark plugs (Fig. 61).
(10) Inspect the electrical and hose connections at
the duty cycle purge solenoid (Fig. 62).
(11) Check the electrical connection to the radiator
fan.
(12) Inspect for corrosion on the electrical connec-
tions at the starter motor solenoid. Check the ground
cable connection below the starter motor (Fig. 63).
Fig. 58 PCV Valve
Fig. 59 MAP/Intake Air Temperature Sensor
Fig. 60 Fuel InjectorsÐTypical
Fig. 61 Ignition Coil and Spark Plugs
Fig. 62 Duty Cycle Purge Solenoid
14 - 42 FUEL SYSTEMPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

NOTE: Transaxle operation requirements are differ-
ent for each vehicle and engine combination. Some
internal parts will be different to provide for this.
Therefore, when replacing parts, refer to the seven
digit part number stamped on rear of the transaxle
oil pan flange.
Within this transaxle, there are three primary
areas:
(1) Main center line plus valve body.
(2) Transfer shaft center line (includes governor
and parking sprag).
(3) Differential center line.
Center distances between the main rotating parts
in these three areas are held precise to maintain a
low noise level.
The torque converter, transaxle area, and differen-
tial are housed in an integral aluminum die casting.
The differential oil sump is common with the
transaxle sump. Separate filling of the differen-
tial is NOT necessary.
The torque converter is attached to the crankshaft
through a flexible driving plate. Cooling of the con-
verter is accomplished by circulating the transaxle
fluid through a remote cooler. There are two types of
coolers used. An oil-to-water type cooler located in
the radiator side tank and/or an oil-to-air heat
exchanger. The torque converter assembly is a sealed
unit that cannot be disassembled.
The transaxle fluid is filtered by an internal filter
attached to the lower side of the valve body assembly.
Engine torque is transmitted to the torque con-
verter and then through the input shaft to multiple-
disc clutches in the transaxle. The power flow
depends on the application of the clutches and bands.
Refer to Elements in Use Chart in Diagnosis and
Tests section.
The transaxle consists of:
²Two multiple-disc clutches
²An overrunning clutch
²Two servos
²A hydraulic accumulator
²Two bands
²Two planetary gear sets
This provides three forward ratios and a reverse
ratio. The common sun gear of the planetary gear
sets is connected to the front clutch by a driving
shell. The driving shell is splined to the sun gear and
front clutch retainer. The hydraulic system consists
of an oil pump and a single valve body which con-
tains all of the valves except the governor valves.
The transaxle sump and differential sump are both
vented through the dipstick. Output torque from the
main center line is delivered through helical gears to
the transfer shaft. This gear set is a factor in the
transaxle final drive (axle) ratio. The shaft also car-
ries the governor and parking sprag. An integral heli-cal gear on the transfer shaft drives the differential
ring gear. The final drive gearing is completed with
one of two gear ratios; 2.98 or 3.19 depending on
model and application.
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION
NOTE: The transmission and differential sump have
a common oil sump with a communicating 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 be sure that the fluid level check is accu-
rate.The engine should be running at idle
speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle
on level ground. This will ensure complete oil
level stabilization between differential and
transmission.The fluid should be at normal operat-
ing temperature (approximately 82É C. or 180É F.).
The fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region
(cross-hatched area) on the dipstick.
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 will build up slowly.
Improper filling also can raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
that 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 servo operation.
Foaming also can result in fluid escaping from the
transaxle dipstick, 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,
or 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.
SELECTION OF LUBRICANT
It is important that the proper lubricant be used in
these transmissions. Mopar ATF PLUS 3 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid- type 7176) should be used to aid
in ensuring optimum transmission performance. It is
important that the transmission fluid be maintained
at the prescribed level using the recommended fluids.
SPECIAL ADDITIVES
Chrysler Corporation does not recommend the
addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than
that fluid listed above. An exception to this policy is
PLTRANSAXLE 21 - 41
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)

(6) Remove front vertical guide bar through
speaker hole in inner door panel (Fig. 42).
INSTALLATION
Reverse the preceding operation. Verify door glass
alignment, adjust if necessary.
GRILLE
REMOVAL
(1) Release hood latch, open and support hood on
prop rod.
(2) Remove screws holding grille to parking lamps
(Fig. 43).
(3) Remove screw holding grille to radiator closure
panel.
(4) Separate grille from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Place grille into position on vehicle.
(2) Install screw holding grille to radiator closure
panel.
(3) Install screws holding grille to parking lamps.
HEADLINING
REMOVAL
(1) Remove screws holding sun visors to roof
header panel.
(2) Disengage wire connector from lighted vanity
mirror, if so equipped.
(3) Separate sun visors from vehicle.
(4) Remove A-pillar trim covers.
(5) Remove B-pillar trim panels, if vehicle is a 4
door.
(6) Remove (upper) quarter panel trim panels.
(7) Remove assist handles, if so equipped.
(8) Remove sun visor hooks.
(9) Remove coat hooks, if vehicle is a 4 door.
(10) If vehicle is equipped with a sunroof;
(a) Open sunroof.
(b) Remove trim welt around sunroof opening
(Fig. 44).
(c) Remove sunroof switch pod.
(d) Disconnect sunroof switch pod wire connec-
tors.
(e) Remove screw holding switch pod retainer to
roof.
(11) Remove push±in fastener at rear of headlin-
ing.
(12) Disengage dome lamp wire connector, at rear
of headlining.
(13) Remove push±in fastener holding wiring to
C±pillar.
Fig. 42 Front Guide
Fig. 43 Grille
PLBODY 23 - 19
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)