GROUP TAB LOCATOR
INIntroduction
0Lubrication & Maintenance
2Suspension
3Differential & Driveline
5Brakes
6Clutch
7Cooling
7aCooling - 2.5L Turbo Diesel
8AAudio
8BChime/Buzzer
8EElectronic Control Modules
8EaElectronic Control Modules
8FEngine Systems
8FaEngine Systems
8GHeated Systems
8HHorn
8IIgnition Control
8IaIgnition Control
8JInstrument Cluster
8LLamps
8MMessage Systems
8NPower Systems
8ORestraints
8PSpeed Control
8QVehicle Theft Security
8RWipers/Washers
8WWiring
9Engine
9aEngine
11Exhaust System
11aExhaust System and Turbocharger
13Frame & Bumpers
14Fuel System
14aFuel System
19Steering
21Transmission
22Tires/Wheels
23Body
24Heating & Air Conditioning
25Emissions Control
25aEmissions Control 2.5L Turbo Diesel
Service Manual Comment Forms
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WARNING: Ethanol vapors are extremely flammable
and could cause serious personal injury. Never
have any smoking materials lit in or near the vehi-
cle when removing the fuel filler tube cap (gas cap)
or filling the tank. Do not use E-85 as a cleaning
agent and never use it near an open flame.
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
The vehicle will operate on both unleaded gasoline
with an octane rating of 87, or E-85 fuel, or any mix-
ture of these two.
For best results, a refueling pattern that alternates
between E-85 and unleaded gasoline should be
avoided. When you do switch fuels, it is recom-
mended that
²you do not switch when the fuel gauge indicates
less than 1/4 full
²you do not add less than 5 gallons when refuel-
ing
²you operate the vehicle immediately after refuel-
ing for a period of at least 5 minutes
Observing these precautions will avoid possible
hard starting and/or significant deterioration in
driveability during warm up.
FFV STARTING
The characteristics of E-85 fuel make it unsuitable
for use when ambient temperatures fall below 0ÉF. In
the range of 0ÉF to 32ÉF, you may experience an
increase in the time it takes for your engine to start,
and a deterioration in driveability (sags and/or hesi-
tations) until the engine is fully warmed up.
Engine Operating on E-85 Fuel
If vehicle operates on E-85 fuel either full or part-
time, use only MopartFlexible Fuel 5W-30 engine oil
or an equivalent that meets DaimlerChrysler Stan-
dard MS-9214. Equivalent commercial Flexible Fuel
engine oils may be labeled as Multi-Fuel, Variable
Fuel, Flexible Fuel, etc. These engine oils may be
satisfactory if they meet the DaimlerChrysler Stan-
dard.
SAE 5W-30 engine oil is preferred for use in Flex-
ible Fuel engines.
CAUTION: If Flexible Fuel engine oil is not used
when using E-85 fuel, engine wear or damage may
result.
CRUISING RANGE
Because E-85 fuel contains less energy per gallon
than gasoline, you will experience an increase in fuel
consumption. You can expect your MPG and your
driving range to decrease by about 30% compared to
gasoline operation.
DESCRIPTION - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules for the
recommended maintenance (fluid/filter change)
intervals for this transaxle.
NOTE: All transaxles have a common transmission
and differential sump. Filling the transaxle accom-
modates the differential as well.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid-
Type 9602) is required in the 41TE automatic and
T850 manual transaxles. Substitute fluids can induce
torque converter clutch shudder.
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.
FLUID ADDITIVES
DaimlerChrysler strongly recommends against the
addition of any fluids to the transmission, other than
those automatic transmission fluids listed above.
Exceptions to this policy are the use of special dyes
to aid in detecting fluid leaks.
Various ªspecialº additives and supplements exist
that claim to improve shift feel and/or quality. These
additives and others also claim to improve converter
clutch operation and inhibit overheating, oxidation,
varnish, and sludge. These claims have not been sup-
ported to the satisfaction of DaimlerChrysler and
these additivesmust not be used.The use of trans-
mission ªsealersº should also be avoided, since they
may adversely affect the integrity of transmission
seals.
DESCRIPTION - FUEL REQUIREMENTS
Your engine is designed to meet all emissions reg-
ulations and provide excellent fuel economy and per-
formance when using high quality unleaded gasoline
having an octane rating of 87. The use of premium
gasoline is not recommended. The use of premium
gasoline will provide no benefit over high quality reg-
ular gasoline, and in some circumstances may result
in poorer performance.
0 - 4 LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCERS
FLUID TYPES (Continued)
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adjustment, maintenance or fluid checks required
during the life of the unit.
The overrunning clutch allows the rear wheels to
overrun the front wheels during a rapid front wheel
lock braking maneuver. The overrunning action pre-
vents any feed-back of front wheel braking torque to
the rear wheels. It also allows the braking system to
control the braking behavior as a two wheel drive
(2WD) vehicle.
The overrunning clutch housing has a separate oil
sump and is filled independently from the differen-
tial. The fill plug is located on the side of the over-
running clutch case. When filling the overrunning
clutch with lubricant use MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission FluidÐType 9602) or equivalent.
The differential assembly contains a conventional
open differential with hypoid ring gear and pinion
gear set. The hypoid gears are lubricated by SAE
80W-90 gear lubricant.DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REAR DRIVELINE
MODULE NOISE
Different sources can be the cause of noise that the
rear driveline module assembly is suspected of mak-
ing. Refer to the following causes for noise diagnosis.
DRIVELINE MODULE ASSEMBLY NOISE
The most important part of driveline module ser-
vice is properly identifying the cause of failures and
noise complaints. The cause of most driveline module
failures is relatively easy to identify. The cause of
driveline module noise is more difficult to identify.
If vehicle noise becomes intolerable, an effort
should be made to isolate the noise. Many noises that
are reported as coming from the driveline module
may actually originate at other sources. For example:
²Tires
²Road surfaces
Fig. 1 AWD Driveline Module Assembly
1 - TORQUE ARM 8 - WASHER 15 - PLUG-OVERRUNNING CLUTCH HOUSING DRAIN
2 - INPUT FLANGE 9 - BI-DIRECTIONAL OVERRUNNING CLUTCH (BOC) 16 - SNAP RING
3 - FLANGE NUT 10 - VISCOUS COUPLER 17 - BEARING
4 - WASHER 11 - SHIM (SELECT) 18 - OVERRUNING CLUTCH HOUSING
5 - SHIELD 12 - O-RING 19 - SEAL-INPUT FLANGE
6 - VENT 13 - DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY
7 - O-RING 14 - PLUG-DIFFERENTIAL FILL
RSREAR DRIVELINE MODULE3-25
REAR DRIVELINE MODULE (Continued)
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FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL AND
CONDITION CHECK
NOTE: The transmission and differential sump have
a common oil sump with a communicating opening
between the two.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
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. This will assure complete oil level sta-
bilization between differential and transmis-
sion.The fluid should be at normal operating
temperature (approximately 82 C. or 180 F.). The
fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-
hatched area) on the fluid level indicator (Fig. 165).
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 servo operation.
Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from thetransaxle dipstick where it may be mistaken for a
leak.
FLUID CONDITION
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. 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
CHANGE
NOTE: For the recommended maintenance (fluid/fil-
ter change) intervals for this transaxle, (Refer to
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION)
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. Place a drain con-
tainer 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) Remove oil filter-to-valve body screws (Fig.
166).
(4) Remove oil filter and gasket (Fig. 167).
(5) Install a new filter and gasket (Fig. 167).
(6) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new MopartSilicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant.
Torque oil pan bolts to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).
(7) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid-Type 9602) through the dipstick
opening.
Fig. 165 Fluid Level Indicator Markings
1 - TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
RS31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21-99
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ADJUSTMENT - DIFFERENTIAL SIDE GEAR
END PLAY
Measure side gear end play: Insert feeler gauges
180É apart between differential side gear and thrust
washer as shown in (Fig. 124). Measurement taken
here applies to both sides. Side gear end play should
be between 0.025-0.152 mm (0.001-0.006 in.). If clear-
ance is greater than 0.152 mm (0.006 in.), install a
thicker thrust washer (both sides). If clearance is less
than 0.025 mm (0.001), install a thinner thrust
washer (both sides). Refer to (Fig. 125) for available
side gear shim thicknesses.
If end play measurement indicates a thrust washer
change is necessary, the differential must be disas-
sembled. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANS-
AXLE/MANUAL/DIFFERENTIAL - DISASSEMBLY)
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL
CHECK
NOTE: For proper fluid level check intervals, (Refer
to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION)
The fluid required in this transaxle is Mopart
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission FluidÐType 9602).
Use of substitute fluids may result in improper
transaxle operation and/or failure.
(1) Raise vehicle on hoist.(2) Remove transaxle fill plug (Fig. 126).
(3) Inspect fluid level. Fluid should be within 1/8º
below fill hole. Add MopartATF+4 (Automatic Trans-
mission FluidÐType 9602) as neccessary.
(4) Install fill plug, ensuring it is properly seated.
(5) Lower vehicle.
Fig. 124 Side Gear End Play Measurement
1 - FEELER GAUGE
Fig. 125 Available Side Gear Thrust Washers
1 - (PLAIN) 0.79-0.84 mm (0.031-0.033 in.)
2 - ( TRIANGLE) 0.91-0.97 mm (0.036-0.038 in.)
3 - (SQUARE) 1.04-1.10 mm (0.041-0.043 in.)
4 - (DIAMOND) 1.17-1.22 mm (0.046-0.048 in.)
Fig. 126 Transaxle Fill Plug
1 - FILL PLUG
2 - END COVER
21 - 358 T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLERS
DIFFERENTIAL (Continued)
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STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID DRAIN AND
FILL
NOTE: For proper fluid change intervals, (Refer to
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION)
The fluid required in this transaxle is Mopart
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission FluidÐType 9602).
Use of substitute fluids may result in improper
transaxle operation and/or failure.
FLUID DRAIN
(1) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(2) Remove transaxle drain plug (Fig. 127) and
drain fluid into suitable container.
(3) Install drain plug and torque to 23 N´m (17 ft.
lbs.).
FLUID FILL
(1) Remove transaxle fill plug (Fig. 128).
(2) Add 2.4-2.7L (2.5-2.9 qts.) of MopartATF+4
(Automatic Transmission FluidÐType 9602) until
fluid is within 1/8º below fill hole.
(3) Install fill plug, ensuring it is properly seated.
(4) Lower vehicle.
GEARSHIFT BOOT
REMOVAL
(1) Remove gearshift knob by pushing down and
rotating1¤4-turn clockwise (Fig. 129).
Fig. 127 Transaxle Drain Plug
1 - TRANSAXLE DRAIN PLUG
2 - DIFFERENTIAL COVER
Fig. 128 Transaxle Fill Plug
1 - FILL PLUG
2 - END COVER
Fig. 129 Gearshift Knob Removal/Installation
1 - GEARSHIFT KNOB
2 - GEARSHIFT LEVER
RST850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE21 - 359
FLUID (Continued)
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