(6) Remove oil filter (Fig. 18).
(7) Turn manual valve fully clock-wise to get park
rod into position for removal.
(8) Remove valve body-to-case bolts (Fig. 19).
CAUTION: Do not handle the valve body assembly
from the manual valve. Damage can result.(9) Using a screwdriver, push park rod rollers
away from guide bracket (Fig. 20) and remove valve
body assembly (Fig. 21).
NOTE: Depending on engine application, some
accumulators will have two springs and others will
have one spring. The springs are color-coded
according to application and year. When disassem-
bling, mark accumulator spring location to ease
assembly.
Fig. 18 Remove Oil Filter
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
Fig. 19 Remove Valve Body Attaching Bolts
1 - VALVE BODY ATTACHING BOLTS (18)
2 - VALVE BODY
Fig. 20 Push Park Rod Rollers from Guide Bracket
1 - PARK SPRAG ROLLERS
2 - SCREWDRIVER
3 - PARK SPRAG GUIDE BRACKET
Fig. 21 Remove Valve Body
1 - VALVE BODY
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 173
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE (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 82É C
(180É F), the fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT
region on the oil level indicator (Fig. 210). The fluid
level should be within the COLD region of the dip-
stick at 27É C (80É 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 transmission.
(3) Select sensors.
(4) Read the transmission temperature value.
(5) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
fluid temperature chart (Fig. 211).
Fig. 210 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
Fig. 211 Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart
1 - MAX. LEVEL
2 - MIN. LEVEL
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 249
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(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.
MopartATF+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.ATF+4 also has a unique
odor that may change with age. Consequently,odor
and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid
condition or the need for a fluid change.
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.
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparTATF+4
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 should
be used. A filter change should be made at the time
of the transmission oil change. The magnet (on the
inside of the oil pan) should also be cleaned with a
clean, dry cloth.NOTE: If the transaxle is disassembled for any rea-
son, the fluid and filter should be changed.
FLUID/FILTER SERVICE (RECOMMENDED)
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist. Refer to LUBRICA-
TION and MAINTENANCE for proper procedures.
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 o-ring on bottom of the
valve body (Fig. 212).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new Mopar Silicone Adhesive sealant. Tighten
oil pan bolts to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).
(5) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+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.
Fig. 212 Filter and O-Ring
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
21 - 250 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FLUID (Continued)
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(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. 213).
(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 MopartATF+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. 213).
(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. 214).
(6) Disconnect gear shift cable from upper mount
bracket (Fig. 214).
Fig. 213 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
Fig. 214 Gearshift Cable at Transaxle - Typical
1 - MANUAL VALVE LEVER
2 - GEAR SHIFT CABLE
3 - UPPER MOUNT BRACKET
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 251
FLUID (Continued)
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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.
(3) If one quart of ATF is collected in 20 seconds or
less, flow is within acceptable limits. If fluid flow is
intermittent or it takes more than 20 seconds to col-
lect one quart of ATF, (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 41TE -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
(4) Inspect the cooler hose for damage. Replace if
necessary.
(5) Re-connect the to cooler line to the transmis-
sion using a service splice kit. Refer to instructions
inclued with the kit.
(6) Refill the transaxle to proper level with
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid±Type
9602).
DISASSEMBLY
When disassembling the transaxle it is necessary
to inspect the oil pump for wear and damage.
(1) Remove the reaction shaft support bolts.
(2) Remove reaction shaft support from pump
housing (Fig. 293).
(3) Remove the pump gears (Fig. 294) and check
for wear and damage on pump housing and gears.
(4) Re-install the gears and check clearances.
(5) Measure the clearance between the outer gear
and the pump pocket (Fig. 295). Clearance should be
0.089±0.202 mm (0.0035-0.0079 in.).(6) Measure clearance between outer gear and
crescent. Clearance should be 0.060-0.298 mm
(0.0023-0.0117 in.).
(7) Measure clearance between inner gear and
crescent. Clearance should be 0.093-0.385 mm
(0.0036-0.0151 in.).
Fig. 293 Reaction Shaft Support
1 - PUMP HOUSING
2 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
3 - PUMP GEARS
Fig. 294 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
Fig. 295 Measure Outer Gear to Pocket
1 - OUTER GEAR
2 - POCKET
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 273
OIL PUMP (Continued)
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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 (Fig.
319), an AC voltage is generated and sent to the
TCM. The TCM interprets this information as input
shaft rpm.The TCM compares the input speed signal with
output speed signal 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) Disconnect battery negative cable.
(2) If necessary, disconnect and cap off transmis-
sion oil cooler lines.
(3) Disconnect input speed sensor connector.
(4) Unscrew and remove input speed sensor (Fig.
320).
(5) Inspect speed sensor o-ring (Fig. 321) and
replace if necessary.
Fig. 318 O-Ring Location
1 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - O-RING
Fig. 319 Sensor Relation to Input Clutch Hub
1 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - TRANSAXLE CASE
3 - INPUT CLUTCH HUB
Fig. 320 Input (Turbine) Speed Sensor
1 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
21 - 282 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
SPEED SENSOR - INPUT (Continued)
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TORQUE CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION
The torque converter (Fig. 327) is a hydraulic
device that couples the engine crankshaft to the
transmission. The torque converter consists of an
outer shell with an internal turbine, a stator, an
overrunning clutch, an impeller and an electronically
applied converter clutch. The converter clutch pro-
vides reduced engine speed and greater fuel economy
when engaged. Clutch engagement also provides
reduced transmission fluid temperatures. The con-
verter clutch engages in third gear. The torque con-
verter hub drives the transmission oil (fluid) pump.
The torque converter is a sealed, welded unit that
is not repairable and is serviced as an assembly.
CAUTION: The torque converter must be replaced if
a transmission failure resulted in large amounts of
metal or fiber contamination in the fluid. If the fluid
is contaminated, flush the fluid cooler and lines.
Fig. 327 Torque Converter Assembly
1 - TURBINE
2 - IMPELLER
3 - HUB
4-STATOR
5 - CONVERTER CLUTCH DISC
6 - DRIVE PLATE
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 285
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IMPELLER
The impeller (Fig. 328) is an integral part of the
converter housing. The impeller consists of curved
blades placed radially along the inside of the housing
on the transmission side of the converter. As the con-
verter housing is rotated by the engine, so is the
impeller, because they are one and the same and are
the driving member of the system.
Fig. 328 Impeller
1 - ENGINE FLEXPLATE 4 - ENGINE ROTATION
2 - OIL FLOW FROM IMPELLER SECTION INTO TURBINE
SECTION5 - ENGINE ROTATION
3 - IMPELLER VANES AND COVER ARE INTEGRAL
21 - 286 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
TORQUE CONVERTER (Continued)
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