2001 DODGE TOWN AND COUNTRY check engine

The process of elimination can be used to detect
any unit which slips and to confirm proper operation
of good units. Road test analysis can diagnose slip-
ping units, but the cause of the malfunction cannot
be determined. Practically any condition can be
caused by leaking hydraulic circuits or sticking
valves.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HYDRAULIC
PRESSURE TESTS
Pressure testing is a very important step in the
diagnostic procedure. These tests usually reveal the
cause of most hydraulic transaxle problems.
Before performing pressure tests, be certain that
fluid level and condition, and shift cable adjustments
have been checked and approved. Fluid must be at
operating temperature (150 to 200 degrees F.).
Install an engine tachometer, raise vehicle on hoist
which allows front wheels to turn, and position
tachometer so it can be read.
Attach 300 psi gauge (C-3293SP) to port(s)
required for test(s) being conducted. Use adapter set
L-4559 to adapt gauge(s) to transaxle.
Test port locations are shown in (Fig. 3).
TEST ONE-SELECTOR IN LOW (1st GEAR)
(1) Attach pressure gauge to the low/reverse clutch
tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the (L) position.
(3) Allow vehicle wheels to turn and increase
throttle opening to achieve an indicated vehicle speed
to 20 mph.
(4) Low/reverse clutch pressure should read 115 to
145 psi.(5) This test checks pump output, pressure regula-
tion and condition of the low/reverse clutch hydraulic
circuit and shift schedule.
TEST TWO-SELECTOR IN DRIVE (2nd GEAR)
NOTE: This test checks the underdrive clutch
hydraulic circuit as well as the shift schedule.
(1) Attach gauge to the underdrive clutch tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the 3 position.
(3) Allow vehicle wheels to turn and increase
throttle opening to achieve an indicated vehicle speed
of 30 mph.
(4) In second gear the underdrive clutch pressure
should read 110 to 145 psi.
TEST TWO A±SELECTOR IN OD (4th Gear)
NOTE: This test checks the underdrive clutch
hydraulic circuit as well as the shift schedule.
(1) Attach gauge to the underdrive clutch tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the (OD) position.
(3) Allow wheels to rotate freely and increase
throttle opening to achieve an indicated speed of 40
mph.
(4) Underdrive clutch pressure should read below
5 psi. If not, then either the solenoid assembly or
TCM is at fault.
TEST THREE-OVERDRIVE CLUTCH CHECK (3rd and
2nd Gear)
(1) Attach gauge to the overdrive clutch tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the (OD) position.
(3) Allow vehicle wheels to turn and increase
throttle opening to achieve an indicated vehicle speed
of 20 mph. Vehicle should be in 3rd gear.
(4) Overdrive clutch pressure should read 74 to 95
psi.
(5) Move selector lever to the (3) position and
increase indicated vehicle speed to 30 mph.
(6) The vehicle should be in second gear and over-
drive clutch pressure should be less than 5 psi.
(7) This test checks the overdrive clutch hydraulic
circuit as well as the shift schedule.
TEST FOUR-SELECTOR IN OVERDRIVE (4th Gear)
(1) Attach gauge to the 2/4 clutch tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the (OD) position.
(3) Allow vehicle front wheels to turn and increase
throttle opening to achieve an indicated vehicle speed
of 30 mph. Vehicle should be in 4th gear.
(4) The 2/4 clutch pressure should read 75 to 95
psi.
(5) This test checks the 2/4 clutch hydraulic cir-
cuit.
Fig. 3 Pressure Taps
1 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH
2 - TORQUE CONVERTER OFF
3 - LOW/REVERSE CLUTCH
4 - 2/4 CLUTCH
5 - REVERSE CLUTCH
6 - UNDERDRIVE CLUTCH
21 - 162 AUTOMATIC - 41TERS
AUTOMATIC - 41TE (Continued)
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TEST FIVE-SELECTOR IN OVERDRIVE (4th Gear-CC
on)
(1) Attach gauge to the torque converter clutch off
pressure tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the (OD) position.
(3) Allow vehicle wheels to turn and increase
throttle opening to achieve an indicated vehicle speed
of 50 mph. Vehicle should be in 4th gear, CC on.
CAUTION: Both wheels must turn at the same
speed.
(4) Torque converter clutch off pressure should be
less than 5 psi.
(5) This test checks the torque converter clutch
hydraulic circuit.
TEST SIX-SELECTOR IN REVERSE
(1) Attach gauges to the reverse and LR clutch
tap.
(2) Move selector lever to the (R) position.
(3) Read reverse clutch pressure with output sta-
tionary (foot on brake) and throttle opened to achieve
1500 rpm.(4) Reverse and LR clutch pressure should read
165 to 235 psi.
(5) This test checks the reverse clutch hydraulic
circuit.
TEST RESULT INDICATIONS
(1) If proper line pressure is found in any one test,
the pump and pressure regulator are working prop-
erly.
(2) Low pressure in all positions indicates a defec-
tive pump, a clogged filter, or a stuck pressure regu-
lator valve.
(3) Clutch circuit leaks are indicated if pressures
do not fall within the specified pressure range.
(4) If the overdrive clutch pressure is greater than
5 psi in Step 4 of Test Three, a worn reaction shaft
seal ring or a defective solenoid assembly is indi-
cated.
(5) If the underdrive clutch pressure is greater
than 5 psi in Step 4 of Test Two A, a defective sole-
noid assembly or TCM is the cause.
PRESSURE CHECK SPECIFICATIONS
Gear Selector
PositionActual
GearPressure Taps
Underdrive
ClutchOverdrive
ClutchReverse
ClutchTorque
Converter
Clutch Off2/4 ClutchLow/
Reverse
Clutch
Park *
PARK 0-2 0-5 0-2 60-110 0-2 115-145
0 mph
REVERSE *
REVERSE 0-2 0-7 165-235 50-100 0-2 165-235
0 mph
NEUTRAL *
NEUTRAL 0-2 0-5 0-2 60-110 0-2 115-145
0 mph
L#
FIRST 110-145 0-5 0-2 60-110 0-2 115-145
20 mph
3#
SECOND 110-145 0-5 0-2 60-110 115-145 0-2
30 mph
3#
DIRECT 75-95 75-95 0-2 60-90 0-2 0-2
45 mph
OD #
OVER-
DRIVE0-2 75-95 0-2 60-90 75-95 0-2
30 mph
OD #OVER-
DRIVE
WITH
TCC0-2 75-95 0-2 0-5 75-95 0-2
50 mph
* Engine speed at 1500 rpm
# CAUTION: Both front wheels must be turning at the same speed.
RSAUTOMATIC - 41TE21 - 163
AUTOMATIC - 41TE (Continued)
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DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CLUTCH AIR
PRESSURE TESTS
Inoperative clutches can be located using a series
of tests by substituting air pressure for fluid pressure
(Fig. 4) (Fig. 5). The clutches may be tested by apply-
ing air pressure to their respective passages. The
valve body must be removed and Tool 6056 installed.
To make air pressure tests, proceed as follows:
NOTE: The compressed air supply must be free of
all dirt and moisture. Use a pressure of 30 psi.
Remove oil pan and valve body. See Valve body
removal.
OVERDRIVE CLUTCH
Apply air pressure to the overdrive clutch apply
passage and watch for the push/pull piston to move
forward. The piston should return to its starting
position when the air pressure is removed.
REVERSE CLUTCH
Apply air pressure to the reverse clutch apply pas-
sage and watch for the push/pull piston to move rear-
ward. The piston should return to its starting
position when the air pressure is removed.
2/4 CLUTCH
Apply air pressure to the feed hole located on the
2/4 clutch retainer. Look in the area where the 2/4
piston contacts the first separator plate and watch
carefully for the 2/4 piston to move rearward. The
piston should return to its original position after the
air pressure is removed.
LOW/REVERSE CLUTCH
Apply air pressure to the low/reverse clutch feed
hole (rear of case, between 2 bolt holes). Then, look
in the area where the low/reverse piston contacts the
first separator plate. Watch carefully for the piston to
move forward. The piston should return to its origi-
nal position after the air pressure is removed.
UNDERDRIVE CLUTCH
Because this clutch piston cannot be seen, its oper-
ation is checked by function. Air pressure is applied
to the low/reverse and the 2/4 clutches. This locks the
output shaft. Use a piece of rubber hose wrapped
around the input shaft and a pair of clamp-on pliers
to turn the input shaft. Next apply air pressure to
the underdrive clutch. The input shaft should not
rotate with hand torque. Release the air pressure
and confirm that the input shaft will rotate.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TORQUE
CONVERTER HOUSING FLUID LEAKAGE
When diagnosing converter housing fluid leaks,
three actions must be taken before repair:
(1) Verify proper transmission fluid level.
(2) Verify that the leak originates from the con-
verter housing area and is transmission fluid.
(3) Determine the true source of the leak.
Fluid leakage at or around the torque converter
area may originate from an engine oil leak (Fig. 6).
The area should be examined closely. Factory fill
fluid is red and, therefore, can be distinguished from
engine oil.
Some suspected converter housing fluid leaks may
not be leaks at all. They may only be the result of
residual fluid in the converter housing, or excess
fluid spilled during factory fill, or fill after repair.
Fig. 4 Air Pressure Test Plate
1 - TOOL 6056
2 - ACCUMULATORS
Fig. 5 Testing Reverse Clutch
1 - TOOL 6056
2 - AIR NOZZLE
21 - 164 AUTOMATIC - 41TERS
AUTOMATIC - 41TE (Continued)
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FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL AND
CONDITION CHECK
NOTE: Only transmission fluid of the type labeled
Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid±Type
9602) should be used in this transaxle.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The transmission sump has a fluid level indicator
(dipstick) to check oil similar to most automatic
transmissions. 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 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 (approxi-
mately 82 C. or 180 F.), the fluid level is correct if it
is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil
level indicator (Fig. 214). The fluid level should be
within the WARM range of the dipstick at 70É F fluid
temperature.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK USING DRB
NOTE: Engine and Transaxle should be at normal
operating temperature before performing this proce-
dure.
(1) Start engine and apply parking brake.
(2) Hook up DRB scan tool and select transmis-
sion.(3) Select sensors.
(4) Read the transmission temperature value.
(5) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
fluid temperature chart (Fig. 215).
(6) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
indicator according to the chart.
(7) Check transmission for leaks.
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, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
FLUID CONDITION
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 recondition is proba-
bly required. Be sure to examine the fluid on the dip-
stick closely. If there is any doubt about its condition,
drain out a sample for a double check.
Moparž ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid-
Type 9602) when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed
red so it can be identified from other fluids used in
the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red
color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid
condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin
to look darker in color and may eventually become
brown. This is normal. A dark brown/black fluid
accompanied with a burnt odor and/or deterioration
in shift quality may indicate fluid deterioration or
transmission component failure.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
SERVICE
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules in
LUBRICATION and MAINTENANCE, or the vehicle
owner's manual, for the recommended maintenance
(fluid/filter change) intervals for this transaxle.
Fig. 214 Transaxle Fluid Level Indicator
1 - TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
21 - 246 AUTOMATIC - 41TERS
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(5) Pour four quarts of Moparž ATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 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) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 217).
(8) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.). Refer
to Fluid Level and Condition Check for the proper
fluid fill procedure.
(9) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
DIPSTICK TUBE FLUID SUCTION METHOD
(ALTERNATIVE)
(1) When performing the fluid suction method,
make sure the transaxle is at full operating temper-
ature.
(2) To perform the dipstick tube fluid suction
method, use a suitable fluid suction device (VaculaŸ
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) Pour four quarts of Moparž ATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 through the dipstick
opening.(7) 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.
(8) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 217).
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.).
(Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTO-
MATIC - 41TE/FLUID - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(10) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
GEAR SHIFT CABLE
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect battery cables.
(2) Remove battery shield.
(3) Remove battery.
(4) Remove speed control servo and position out of
way.
(5) Disconnect gear shift cable at manual valve
lever (Fig. 218).
(6) Disconnect gear shift cable from upper mount
bracket (Fig. 218).
Fig. 217 Transaxle Fluid Level Indicator
1 - TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
Fig. 218 Gearshift Cable at Transaxle - Typical
1 - MANUAL VALVE LEVER
2 - GEAR SHIFT CABLE
3 - UPPER MOUNT BRACKET
21 - 248 AUTOMATIC - 41TERS
FLUID (Continued)
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OIL PUMP
DESCRIPTION
The oil pump is located in the pump housing inside
the bell housing of the transaxle case (Fig. 295). The
oil pump consists of an inner and outer gear, a hous-
ing, and a cover that also serves as the reaction shaft
support.
OPERATION
As the torque converter rotates, the converter hub
rotates the inner and outer gears. As the gears
rotate, the clearance between the gear teeth
increases in the crescent area, and creates a suctionat the inlet side of the pump. This suction draws
fluid through the pump inlet from the oil pan. As the
clearance between the gear teeth in the crescent area
decreases, it forces pressurized fluid into the pump
outlet and to the valve body.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - OIL PUMP VOLUME
CHECK
Measuring oil pump output volume will determine
if sufficient flow to the transmission oil cooler exists,
and whether or not an internal transmission failure
is present.
Verify that transmission fluid is at the proper
level. If adding fluid is necessary, fill to the proper
level with Moparž ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission
Fluid±Type 9602). The following procedure is to
check oil pump output volume:
(1) Using hose cutters or a suitable blade, cut the
ªto coolerº (Fig. 296) line off flush with the cooler
inlet fitting and place a collection container under
the open 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) Start engine and runat curb idle speed, with
the shift selector in neutral.
Fig. 293 Install No. 3 Thrust Plate
1 - OVERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
2 - DABS OF PETROLATUM (FOR RETENTION)
3 - #3 THRUST PLATE (NOTE 3 TABS)
Fig. 294 Install Overdrive Shaft Assembly
1 - OVERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
2 - #3 THRUST PLATE
3 - #3 THRUST WASHER
Fig. 295 Oil Pump Assembly
1 - PUMP HOUSING
2 - OUTER PUMP GEAR
3 - INNER PUMP GEAR
4 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
5 - SEAL RINGS (4)
6 - REACTION SHAFT
7 - CRESCENT
RSAUTOMATIC - 41TE21 - 269
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY (Continued)
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TRANSMISSION CONTROL
RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The transmission control relay (Fig. 340) is located
in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM), which is
located on the left side of the engine compartment
between the battery and left fender.
OPERATION
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. 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 (ignition
key turned to the ªrunº position or after cranking
engine), the TCM energizes the relay. Prior to this,
the TCM verifies that the contacts are open by check-
ing 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 ener-
gized, the TCM monitors the terminals to verify that
the voltage is greater than 3 volts.
TRANSMISSION RANGE
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) is mounted
to the top of the valve body inside the transaxle and
can only be serviced by removing the valve body. The
electrical connector extends through the transaxle
case (Fig. 341) .
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) has four
switch contacts that monitor shift lever position and
send the information to the TCM.
The TRS also has an integrated temperature sen-
sor (thermistor) that communicates transaxle tem-
perature to the TCM and PCM (Fig. 342) .
OPERATION
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) (Fig. 341)
communicates shift lever position (SLP) to the TCM
as a combination 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 trans-
axle gear position and shift schedule.
Fig. 340 Transmission Control Relay Location
1 - TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
2 - LEFT FENDER
3 - INTELLIGENT POWER MODULE (IPM)
4 - BATTERYFig. 341 Transmission Range Sensor (TRS)
Location
1 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
RSAUTOMATIC - 41TE21 - 287
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TORQUE REDUCTION LINK
(TRD)
DESCRIPTION
The Torque Reduction Link (TRD) is a wire
between the PCM and TCM that is used by the TCM
to request torque management. Torque management
controls or reduces torque output of the engine dur-
ing certain shift sequences, reducing torque applied
to the transaxle clutches.
OPERATION
The torque management signal is basically a
12-volt pull-up supplied by the PCM to the TCM over
the torque reduction link (TRD). Torque management
is requested when the TCM pulses this signal to
ground. The PCM recognizes this request and
responds by retarding ignition timing, killing fuel
injectors, etc. The PCM sends a confirmation of the
request to the TCM via the communication bus.
Torque reduction is not noticable by the driver, and
usually lasts for a very short period of time.
If the confirmation signal is not received by the
TCM after two sequential request messages, a diag-
nostic trouble code will be set.
VALVE BODY
DESCRIPTION
The valve body assembly consists of a cast alumi-
num valve body, a separator plate, and transfer
plate. The valve body contains valves and check balls
that control fluid delivery to the torque converter
clutch, solenoid/pressure switch assembly, and fric-
tional clutches. The valve body contains the following
components (Fig. 344):
²Regulator valve
²Solenoid switch valve
²Manual valve
²Converter clutch switch valve
²Converter clutch control valve
²Torque converter regulator valve
²Low/Reverse switch valve
In addition, the valve body also contains the ther-
mal valve, #2,3&4 check balls, the #5 (overdrive)
check valve and the 2/4 accumulator assembly. (Refer
to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC
- 41TE/VALVE BODY - DISASSEMBLY)
Fig. 344 Valve Body Assembly
1 - VALVE BODY
2 - T/C REGULATOR VALVE
3 - L/R SWITCH VALVE
4 - CONVERTER CLUTCH CONTROL VALVE
5 - MANUAL VALVE6 - CONVERTER CLUTCH SWITCH VALVE
7 - SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE
8 - REGULATOR VALVE
RSAUTOMATIC - 41TE21 - 289
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