(9) Remove park rod rollers from guide bracket
and remove valve body from transaxle (Fig. 351) (Fig.
352).
CAUTION: The valve body manual shaft pilot may
distort and bind the manual valve if the valve body
is mishandled or dropped.
DISASSEMBLY
NOTE: If valve body assembly is being recondi-
tioned, the TCM Quick Learn Procedure must be
performed. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC
CONTROL MODULES/TRANSMISSION CONTROL
MODULE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)(1) Remove manual shaft seal (Fig. 353).
(2) Remove Transmission Range Sensor retaining
screw (Fig. 354).
Fig. 351 Push Park Rod Rollers from Guide Bracket
1 - PARK SPRAG ROLLERS
2 - SCREWDRIVER
3 - PARK SPRAG GUIDE BRACKET
Fig. 352 Valve Body Removal/Installation
1 - VALVE BODY
Fig. 353 Manual Shaft Seal
1 - SEAL
2 - MANUAL SHAFT
Fig. 354 Remove Transmission Range Sensor
1 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
2 - MANUAL VALVE CONTROL PIN
3 - RETAINING SCREW
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 297
VALVE BODY (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
NOTE: Tag all valve/spring assemblies for reassem-
bly identification.
(13) Remove dual retainer plate using Tool 6301
(Fig. 365).
(14) Remove regulator valve spring retainer (Fig.
366).(15) Remove remaining retainers as shown in (Fig.
367).
(16) Remove valves and springs as shown in (Fig.
368).
NOTE: Refer to Valve Body Cleaning and Inspection
for cleaning procedures.
ASSEMBLY
NOTE: If valve body assembly is reconditioned, the
TCM Quick Learn Procedure must be performed.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL
MODULES/TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE -
STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(1) Install valves and springs as shown in (Fig.
368).
(2) Install regulator valve spring retainer (Fig.
369).
(3) Install dual retainer plate using Tool 6301 (Fig.
370).
Fig. 365 Remove Dual Retainer Plate using Tool
6301
1 - TOOL 6301
2 - RETAINER
Fig. 366 Remove Regulator Valve Spring Retainer
using Tool 6302
1 - TOOL 6302
2 - RETAINER
Fig. 367 Valve Retainer Location
1 - RETAINER
2 - RETAINER
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 301
VALVE BODY (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
(14) Install Manual Shaft/Rooster Comb and
Transmission Range Sensor (Fig. 381).
(15) Make sure Manual Valve control pin is con-
tained within the rooster comb slot (Fig. 382). Install
Transmission Range Sensor retaining screw (Fig.
382) and torque to 5 N´m (45 in. lbs.).(16) Install manual shaft seal (Fig. 383).
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If valve body assembly is being replaced or
reconditioned, it is necessary to perform the TCM
Quick Learn Procedure. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/TRANSMISSION
CONTROL MODULE - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(1) Install valve body assembly to transaxle (Fig.
384). Install and torque valve body-to-transaxle case
bolts (Fig. 385) to 12 N´m (105 in. lbs.).
Fig. 381 Install Manual Shaft/Rooster Comb and
Transmission Range Sensor
1 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
2 - MANUAL SHAFT
3 - ROOSTER COMB
Fig. 382 Install Transmission Range Sensor
Retaining Screw
1 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
2 - MANUAL VALVE CONTROL PIN
3 - RETAINING SCREW
Fig. 383 Manual Shaft Seal
1 - SEAL
2 - MANUAL SHAFT
Fig. 384 Valve Body Removal/Installation
1 - VALVE BODY
21 - 306 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
VALVE BODY (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
BODY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
BODY
DESCRIPTION - VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION....1
WARNING
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS . . . 1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WATER LEAKS . 1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIND NOISE . . . 2
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - PLASTIC BODY
PANEL REPAIR........................3
STANDARD PROCEDURE - HEAT STAKING . 10
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE............................11
BODY LUBRICATION...................12SPECIAL TOOLS
BODY..............................13
DOOR - FRONT.........................14
DOORS - SLIDING.......................24
DECKLID/HATCH/LIFTGATE/TAILGATE.......39
EXTERIOR.............................44
HOOD.................................60
INSTRUMENT PANEL.....................63
INTERIOR..............................72
PAINT.................................83
SEATS................................85
STATIONARY GLASS....................107
WEATHERSTRIP/SEALS..................112
BODY STRUCTURE.....................115
BODY
DESCRIPTION - VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
Throughout this group, references to the
DaimlerChrysler Corporation vehicle family identifi-
cation code are used when describing a procedure
that is unique to that vehicle. Refer to Introduction
Group of this manual for detailed information on
vehicle identification. If a procedure is common to all
vehicles covered in this manual, no reference will be
made to a vehicle family code.
WARNING
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
WARNING: USE A OSHA APPROVED BREATHING
FILTER WHEN SPRAYING PAINT OR SOLVENTS IN
A CONFINED AREA. PERSONAL INJURY CAN
RESULT.
AVOID PROLONGED SKIN CONTACT WITH PETRO-
LEUM OR ALCOHOL ± BASED CLEANING SOL-
VENTS. PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
DO NOT STAND UNDER A HOISTED VEHICLE THAT
IS NOT PROPERLY SUPPORTED ON SAFETY
STANDS. PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
CAUTION: When holes must be drilled or punched
in an inner body panel, verify depth of space to the
outer body panel, electrical wiring, or other compo-
nents. Damage to vehicle can result.
Do not weld exterior panels unless combustiblematerial on the interior of vehicle is removed from
the repair area. Fire or hazardous conditions, can
result.
Always have a fire extinguisher ready for use when
welding.
Disconnect the negative (-) cable clamp from the
battery when servicing electrical components that
are live when the ignition is OFF. Damage to electri-
cal system can result.
Do not use abrasive chemicals or compounds on
painted surfaces. Damage to finish can result.
Do not use harsh alkaline based cleaning solvents
on painted or upholstered surfaces. Damage to fin-
ish or color can result.
Do not hammer or pound on plastic trim panel
when servicing interior trim. Plastic panels can
break.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WATER LEAKS
Water leaks can be caused by poor sealing,
improper body component alignment, body seam
porosity, missing plugs, or blocked drain holes. Cen-
trifugal and gravitational force can cause water to
drip from a location away from the actual leak point,
making leak detection difficult. All body sealing
points should be water tight in normal wet-driving
conditions. Water flowing downward from the front of
the vehicle should not enter the passenger or luggage
compartment. Moving sealing surfaces will not
always seal water tight under all conditions. At
times, side glass or door seals will allow water to
RSBODY23-1
ProCarManuals.com
enter the passenger compartment during high pres-
sure washing or hard driving rain (severe) condi-
tions. Overcompensating on door or glass
adjustments to stop a water leak that occurs under
severe conditions can cause premature seal wear and
excessive closing or latching effort. After completing
a repair, water test vehicle to verify leak has stopped
before returning vehicle to use.
VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE WATER LEAK TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place, body
drains are clear, and body components are properly
aligned and sealed. If component alignment or seal-
ing is necessary, refer to the appropriate section of
this group for proper procedures.
WATER LEAK TESTS
WARNING: DO NOT USE ELECTRIC SHOP LIGHTS
OR TOOLS IN WATER TEST AREA. PERSONAL
INJURY CAN RESULT.
When the conditions causing a water leak have
been determined, simulate the conditions as closely
as possible.
²If a leak occurs with the vehicle parked in a
steady light rain, flood the leak area with an open-
ended garden hose.
²If a leak occurs while driving at highway speeds
in a steady rain, test the leak area with a reasonable
velocity stream or fan spray of water. Direct the
spray in a direction comparable to actual conditions.
²If a leak occurs when the vehicle is parked on an
incline, hoist the end or side of the vehicle to simu-
late this condition. This method can be used when
the leak occurs when the vehicle accelerates, stops or
turns. If the leak occurs on acceleration, hoist the
front of the vehicle. If the leak occurs when braking,
hoist the back of the vehicle. If the leak occurs on left
turns, hoist the left side of the vehicle. If the leak
occurs on right turns, hoist the right side of the vehi-
cle. For hoisting recommendations (Refer to LUBRI-
CATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
WATER LEAK DETECTION
To detect a water leak point-of-entry, do a water
test and watch for water tracks or droplets forming
on the inside of the vehicle. If necessary, remove inte-
rior trim covers or panels to gain visual access to the
leak area. If the hose cannot be positioned without
being held, have someone help do the water test.
Some water leaks must be tested for a considerable
length of time to become apparent. When a leak
appears, find the highest point of the water track or
drop. The highest point usually will show the point of
entry. After leak point has been found, repair theleak and water test to verify that the leak has
stopped.
Locating the entry point of water that is leaking
into a cavity between panels can be difficult. The
trapped water may splash or run from the cavity,
often at a distance from the entry point. Most water
leaks of this type become apparent after accelerating,
stopping, turning, or when on an incline.
MIRROR INSPECTION METHOD
When a leak point area is visually obstructed, use
a suitable mirror to gain visual access. A mirror can
also be used to deflect light to a limited-access area
to assist in locating a leak point.
BRIGHT LIGHT LEAK TEST METHOD
Some water leaks in the luggage compartment can
be detected without water testing. Position the vehi-
cle in a brightly lit area. From inside the darkened
luggage compartment inspect around seals and body
seams. If necessary, have a helper direct a drop light
over the suspected leak areas around the luggage
compartment. If light is visible through a normally
sealed location, water could enter through the open-
ing.
PRESSURIZED LEAK TEST METHOD
When a water leak into the passenger compart-
ment cannot be detected by water testing, pressurize
the passenger compartment and soap test exterior of
the vehicle. To pressurize the passenger compart-
ment, close all doors and windows, start engine, and
set heater control to high blower in HEAT position. If
engine can not be started, connect a charger to the
battery to ensure adequate voltage to the blower.
With interior pressurized, apply dish detergent solu-
tion to suspected leak area on the exterior of the
vehicle. Apply detergent solution with spray device or
soft bristle brush. If soap bubbles occur at a body
seam, joint, seal or gasket, the leak entry point could
be at that location.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WIND NOISE
Wind noise is the result of most air leaks. Air leaks
can be caused by poor sealing, improper body compo-
nent alignment, body seam porosity, or missing plugs
in the engine compartment or door hinge pillar areas.
All body sealing points should be airtight in normal
driving conditions. Moving sealing surfaces will not
always seal airtight under all conditions. At times,
side glass or door seals will allow wind noise to be
noticed in the passenger compartment during high
cross winds. Over compensating on door or glass
adjustments to stop wind noise that occurs under
severe conditions can cause premature seal wear and
excessive closing or latching effort. After a repair pro-
23 - 2 BODYRS
BODY (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
cedure has been performed, test vehicle to verify
noise has stopped before returning vehicle to use.
VISUAL INSPECTION BEFORE TESTS
Verify that floor and body plugs are in place and
body components are aligned and sealed. If compo-
nent alignment or sealing is necessary, refer to the
appropriate section of this group for proper proce-
dures.
ROAD TESTING WIND NOISE
(1) Drive the vehicle to verify the general location
of the wind noise.
(2) Apply 50 mm (2 in.) masking tape in 150 mm
(6 in.) lengths along weatherstrips, weld seams or
moldings. After each length is applied, drive the vehi-
cle. If noise goes away after a piece of tape is applied,
remove tape, locate, and repair defect.
POSSIBLE CAUSE OF WIND NOISE
²Moldings standing away from body surface can
catch wind and whistle.
²Gaps in sealed areas behind overhanging body
flanges can cause wind-rushing sounds.
²Misaligned movable components.
²Missing or improperly installed plugs in pillars.
²Weld burn through holes.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - PLASTIC BODY
PANEL REPAIR
There are many different types of plastics used in
today's automotive environment. We group plastics in
three different categories: Rigid, Semi-Rigid, and
Flexible. Any of these plastics may require the use of
an adhesion promoter for repair. These types of plas-
tic are used extensively on DaimlerChrysler Motors
vehicles. Always follow repair material manufactur-
er's plastic identification and repair procedures.
Rigid Plastics:
Examples of rigid plastic use: Fascias, Hoods,
Doors, and other Body Panels, which include SMC,
ABS, and Polycarbonates.
Semi-Rigid Plastics:
Examples of semi-rigid plastic use: Interior Panels,
Under Hood Panels, and other Body Trim Panels.
Flexible Plastics:
Examples of flexible plastic use: Fascias, Body
Moldings, and upper and lower Fascia Covers.
Repair Procedure:
The repair procedure for all three categories of
plastics is basically the same. The one difference is
the material used for the repair. The materials must
be specific for each substrate, rigid repair material
for rigid plastic repair, semi-rigid repair material for
semi-rigid plastic repair and flexible repair material
for flexible plastic repair.
Adhesion Promoter/Surface Modifier:
Adhesion Promoters/Surface Modifiers are required
for certain plastics. All three categories may have
plastics that require the use of adhesion promoter/
surface modifiers. Always follow repair material man-
ufacturer's plastic identification and repair
procedures.
SAFETY PRECAUTION AND WARNINGS
WARNING:
²EYE PROTECTION SHOULD BE USED WHEN
SERVICING COMPONENTS. PERSONAL INJURY
CAN RESULT.
²USE AN OSHA APPROVED BREATHING MASK
WHEN MIXING EPOXY, GRINDING, AND SPRAYING
PAINT OR SOLVENTS IN A CONFINED AREA. PER-
SONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
²AVOID PROLONGED SKIN CONTACT WITH
RESIN, PETROLEUM, OR ALCOHOL BASED SOL-
VENTS. PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
²DO NOT VENTURE UNDER A HOISTED VEHI-
CLE THAT IS NOT PROPERLY SUPPORTED ON
SAFETY STANDS. PERSONAL INJURY CAN
RESULT.
NOTE:
²When holes must be drilled or cut in body pan-
els, verify locations of internal body components
and electrical wiring. Damage to vehicle can result.
²Do not use abrasive chemicals or compounds
on undamaged painted surfaces around repair
areas. Damage to finish can result.
RSBODY23-3
BODY (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
(5) Disengage clip holding door latch linkage to
door latch (Fig. 12).
(6) Remove latch linkage from latch.
(7) Disengage clip holding door lock linkage to
door latch.
(8) Remove lock linkage from latch.
(9) Remove nuts attaching outside door handle to
door outer panel.
(10) Remove outside door handle from vehicle.
(11) Disengage clip holding lock cylinder into out-
side handle.
(12) Pull lock cylinder from door handle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Engage clip into outside handle to hold lock
cylinder (Fig. 12).
(2) With link arm toward rear of vehicle, push lock
cylinder into door handle until clip snaps into place.
(3) Insert lock linkage into door latch.
(4) Engage clip to hold door lock linkage to latch.
(5) Insert latch linkage into door latch.
(6) Engage clip to hold door latch linkage to latch.
(7) Install push in fasteners attaching VTSS
switch harness to inner door reinforcement bar, if
equipped.
(8) Connect VTSS switch connector into door har-
ness, if equipped.
(9) Verify door latch operation.(10) Install watershield and door trim panel.
TRIM PANEL
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the plug and remove screw attaching
door pull cup to inner door panel.
(2) Remove switch bezel and disconnect power win-
dow/memory switch.
(3) Remove screws attaching trim panel to door
from below map pocket.
(4) If equipped, remove window crank. (Refer to 23
- BODY/DOOR - FRONT/WINDOW CRANK -
REMOVAL)
(5) Remove screw holding door trim to door panel
from behind inside latch release handle.
(6) Disengage clips attaching door trim to door
frame around perimeter of panel.
(7) Lift trim panel upward to disengage flange
from inner belt molding at top of door.
(8) Tilt top of trim panel away from door to gain
access to latch linkage.
(9) Disengage clip attaching linkage rod to inside
latch release handle (Fig. 13).
(10) Separate linkage rod from latch handle.
(11) Disconnect the power door switch, courtesy
lamp electrical connectors.
Fig. 12 OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE
1 - CLIP
2 - LOCK CYLINDER
3 - KEY CYLINDER TO LATCH LINK
4 - OUTSIDE HANDLE TO LATCH LINK
5 - LOCK KNOB LINK6 - FRONT DOOR
7 - KEY POSITION SWITCH
8 - OUTSIDE HANDLE
23 - 20 DOOR - FRONTRS
LOCK CYLINDER (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
(6) Trace the inside handle cable along its routing
path and install on its retaining clips and position
foam insulators. Use previously made schematic as a
guide or remove the opposite side door trim panel
and use that door as a guide.
CAUTION: Be certain replacement cable is routed
and retained correctly and foam insulators are
properly positioned.
(7) Install the latch assembly. Refer to the Power
Side Doors section for the procedure.
(8) Place the watershield into position and press
securely to adhesive making sure to properly route
wiring and linkages.
(9) Install the appropriate side door trim panel on
the vehicle. (Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS - SLIDING/
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION)
(10) Connect the negative battery cable.
HOLD OPEN LATCH CABLE
REMOVAL
NOTE: For power sliding door procedures refer to
POWER SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM in the ELECTRI-
CAL section.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the appropriate side door trim panel
from the vehicle. (Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS -
SLIDING/TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL)
(3) Peel watershield away from adhesive around
perimeter of inner door panel.
(4) Open the side door and remove the latch
assembly. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER
DOORS/LATCH - REMOVAL)
CAUTION: Make note of cable routing and foam
insulator placement. This will prove helpful when
reinstalling replacement cable. Be certain replace-
ment cable is routed and retained correctly.
(5) Trace the hold open latch cable along its rout-
ing path and disconnect from its retaining clips.
(6) Disconnect the hold open latch cable from the
latch assembly. Gently pry cable sleeve retainer out
of the latch mounting bracket and then unhook
swedged cable end from the latch link.
(7) Remove the hold open latch from the side door.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS - SLIDING/HOLD
OPEN LATCH - REMOVAL)
(8) Disconnect the hold open latch cable from the
hold open latch. Gently pry cable sleeve retainer outof the handle bracket and then unhook swedged
cable end from the latch link.
(9) Remove the hold open latch cable from the side
door.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: For power sliding door procedures refer to
POWER SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM in the ELECTRI-
CAL section.
(1) Match the replacement cable up against the old
cable to verify the correct part.
(2) Position the hold open latch cable on the side
door.
NOTE: The hold open latch cable is marked with
white tape. It must be attached to the upper most
cable attachment at the latch. This position is
marked with a ªWº on the latch.
(3) Connect the hold open latch cable on the hold
open latch assembly. Hook the swedged cable end on
the latch link and gently push the cable sleeve
retainer in the latch bracket.
(4) Install the hold open latch on the side door.(Re-
fer to 23 - BODY/DOORS - SLIDING/HOLD OPEN
LATCH - INSTALLATION)
(5) Connect the hold open latch cable on the latch
assembly. Hook the swedged cable end on the latch
link and gently push the cable sleeve retainer in the
latch bracket.
(6) Trace the outside handle cable along its routing
path and install on its retaining clips and position
foam insulators. Use previously made schematic as a
guide or remove the opposite side door trim panel
and use that door as a guide.
CAUTION: Be certain replacement cable is routed
and retained correctly and foam insulators are
properly positioned.
(7) Install the latch assembly. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/POWER DOORS/LATCH - INSTALLATION)
(8) Place the watershield into position and press
securely to adhesive making sure to properly route
wiring and linkages.
(9) Install the appropriate side door trim panel on
the vehicle. (Refer to 23 - BODY/DOORS - SLIDING/
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION)
(10) Connect the negative battery cable.
23 - 38 DOORS - SLIDINGRS
INSIDE HANDLE CABLE (Continued)
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