IDENTIFICATION
Transmission identification numbers are stamped
on the left side of the case just above the oil pan gas-
ket surface (Fig. 2). Refer to this information when
ordering replacement parts.
GEAR RATIOS The 42RE gear ratios are:
1st.................................2.74:1
2nd................................1.54:1
3rd.................................1.00:1
4th.................................0.69:1
Rev.................................2.21:1
OPERATION
The application of each driving or holding compo-
nent is controlled by the valve body based upon the
manual lever position, throttle pressure, and gover-
nor pressure. The governor pressure is a variable
pressure input to the valve body and is one of the
signals that a shift is necessary. First through fourth
gear are obtained by selectively applying and releas-
ing the different clutches and bands. Engine power is
thereby routed to the various planetary gear assem-
blies which combine with the overrunning clutch
assemblies to generate the different gear ratios. The
torque converter clutch is hydraulically applied and
is released when fluid is vented from the hydraulic
circuit by the torque converter control (TCC) solenoid
on the valve body. The torque converter clutch is con-
trolled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The
torque converter clutch engages in fourth gear, and
in third gear under various conditions, such as when
the O/D switch is OFF, when the vehicle is cruising
on a level surface after the vehicle has warmed up.
The torque converter clutch will disengage momen-
tarily when an increase in engine load is sensed by
the PCM, such as when the vehicle begins to go
uphill or the throttle pressure is increased. The
torque converter clutch feature increases fuel econ-
omy and reduces the transmission fluid temperature.
Since the overdrive clutch is applied in fourth gear
only and the direct clutch is applied in all ranges
except fourth gear, the transmission operation for
park, neutral, and first through third gear will be
described first. Once these powerflows are described,
the third to fourth shift sequence will be described.
1 - CONVERTER CLUTCH 15 - HOUSING
2 - TORQUE CONVERTER 16 - REAR BEARING
3 - OIL PUMP AND REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT ASSEMBLY 17 - OUTPUT SHAFT
4 - FRONT BAND 18 - SEAL
5 - FRONT CLUTCH 19 - OVERDRIVE OVERRUNNING CLUTCH
6 - DRIVING SHELL 20 - OVERDRIVE PLANETARY GEAR
7 - REAR BAND 21 - DIRECT CLUTCH SPRING
8 - TRANSMISSION OVERRUNNING CLUTCH 22 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH PISTON
9 - OVERDRIVE UNIT 23 - VALVE BODY ASSEMBLY
10 - PISTON RETAINER 24 - FILTER
11 - OVERDRIVE CLUTCH 25 - FRONT PLANETARY GEAR
12 - DIRECT CLUTCH 26 - REAR CLUTCH
13 - INTERMEDIATE SHAFT 27 - TRANSMISSION
14 - FRONT BEARING 28 - REAR PLANETARY GEAR
Fig. 2 Transmission Part And Serial Number
Location
1 - PART NUMBER
2 - BUILD DATE
3 - SERIAL NUMBER
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 5
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)
PARK POWERFLOW
As the engine is running and the crankshaft is
rotating, the flexplate and torque converter, which
are also bolted to it, are all rotating in a clockwise
direction as viewed from the front of the engine. The
notched hub of the torque converter is connected to
the oil pump's internal gear, supplying the transmis-
sion with oil pressure. As the converter turns, it
turns the input shaft in a clockwise direction. As the
input shaft is rotating, the front clutch hub-rear
clutch retainer and all their associated parts are also
rotating, all being directly connected to the input
shaft. The power flow from the engine through the
front clutch hub and rear clutch retainer stops at the
rear clutch retainer. Therefore, no power flow to the
output shaft occurs because no clutches are applied.
The only mechanism in use at this time is the park-
ing sprag (Fig. 3), which locks the parking gear on
the output shaft to the transmission case.
NEUTRAL POWERFLOW
With the gear selector in the NEUTRAL position
(Fig. 4), the power flow of the transmission is essen-
tially the same as in the park position. The only
operational difference is that the parking sprag has
been disengaged, unlocking the output shaft from the
transmission case and allowing it to move freely.
Fig. 3 Park Powerflow
1 - LEVER ENGAGED FOR PARK
2 - PARK SPRAG
3 - OUTPUT SHAFT
Fig. 4 Neutral Powerflow
1 - PAWL DISENGAGED FOR NEUTRAL
2 - PARK SPRAG
3 - OUTPUT SHAFT
4 - CAM
5-PAWL
21 - 6 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42REWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)
FOURTH GEAR POWERFLOW
Fourth gear overdrive range is electronically con-
trolled and hydraulically activated. Various sensor
inputs are supplied to the powertrain control module
to operate the overdrive solenoid on the valve body.
The solenoid contains a check ball that opens and
closes a vent port in the 3-4 shift valve feed passage.
The overdrive solenoid (and check ball) are not ener-
gized in first, second, third, or reverse gear. The vent
port remains open, diverting line pressure from the
2-3 shift valve away from the 3-4 shift valve. The
overdrive control switch must be in the ON position
to transmit overdrive status to the PCM. A 3-4
upshift occurs only when the overdrive solenoid is
energized by the PCM. The PCM energizes the over-
drive solenoid during the 3-4 upshift. This causes the
solenoid check ball to close the vent port allowing
line pressure from the 2-3 shift valve to act directly
on the 3-4 upshift valve. Line pressure on the 3-4
shift valve overcomes valve spring pressure moving
the valve to the upshift position. This action exposes
the feed passages to the 3-4 timing valve, 3-4 quick
fill valve, 3-4 accumulator, and ultimately to the
overdrive piston. Line pressure through the timing
valve moves the overdrive piston into contact with
the overdrive clutch. The direct clutch is disengaged
before the overdrive clutch is engaged. The boost
valve provides increased fluid apply pressure to the
overdrive clutch during 3-4 upshifts, and when accel-
erating in fourth gear. The 3-4 accumulator cushions
overdrive clutch engagement to smooth 3-4 upshifts.
The accumulator is charged at the same time as
apply pressure acts against the overdrive piston.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
Automatic transmission problems can be a result of
poor engine performance, incorrect fluid level, incor-
rect linkage or cable adjustment, band or hydraulic
control pressure adjustments, hydraulic system mal-
functions or electrical/mechanical component mal-
functions. Begin diagnosis by checking the easily
accessible items such as: fluid level and condition,
linkage adjustments and electrical connections. A
road test will determine if further diagnosis is neces-
sary.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRELIMINARY
Two basic procedures are required. One procedure
for vehicles that are drivable and an alternate proce-
dure for disabled vehicles (will not back up or move
forward).
VEHICLE IS DRIVEABLE
(1) Check for transmission fault codes using DRBt
scan tool.
(2) Check fluid level and condition.
(3) Adjust throttle and gearshift linkage if com-
plaint was based on delayed, erratic, or harsh shifts.
(4) Road test and note how transmission upshifts,
downshifts, and engages.
(5) Perform hydraulic pressure test if shift prob-
lems were noted during road test.
(6) Perform air-pressure test to check clutch-band
operation.
VEHICLE IS DISABLED
(1) Check fluid level and condition.
(2) Check for broken or disconnected gearshift or
throttle linkage.
(3) Check for cracked, leaking cooler lines, or loose
or missing pressure-port plugs.
(4) Raise and support vehicle on safety stands,
start engine, shift transmission into gear, and note
following:
(a) If propeller shaft turns but wheels do not,
problem is with differential or axle shafts.
(b) If propeller shaft does not turn and transmis-
sion is noisy, stop engine. Remove oil pan, and
check for debris. If pan is clear, remove transmis-
sion and check for damaged drive plate, converter,
oil pump, or input shaft.
(c) If propeller shaft does not turn and transmis-
sion is not noisy, perform hydraulic-pressure test to
determine if problem is hydraulic or mechanical.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TESTING
Before road testing, be sure the fluid level and con-
trol cable adjustments have been checked and
adjusted if necessary. Verify that diagnostic trouble
codes have been resolved.
Observe engine performance during the road test.
A poorly tuned engine will not allow accurate analy-
sis of transmission operation.
Operate the transmission in all gear ranges. Check
for shift variations and engine flare which indicates
slippage. Note if shifts are harsh, spongy, delayed,
early, or if part throttle downshifts are sensitive.
Slippage indicated by engine flare, usually means
clutch, band or overrunning clutch problems. If the
condition is advanced, an overhaul will be necessary
to restore normal operation.
A slipping clutch or band can often be determined
by comparing which internal units are applied in the
various gear ranges. The Clutch and Band Applica-
tion chart provides a basis for analyzing road test
results.
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 11
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)
Test Four - Transmission In Reverse
NOTE: This test checks pump output, pressure reg-
ulation and the front clutch and rear servo circuits.
Use 300 psi Test Gauge C-3293-SP for this test.
(1) Leave vehicle on hoist and leave gauge C-3292
in place at accumulator port.
(2) Move 300 psi Gauge C-3293-SP back to rear
servo port.
(3) Have helper start and run engine at 1600 rpm
for test.
(4) Move transmission shift lever four detents
rearward from full forward position. This is Reverse
range.
(5) Move transmission throttle lever fully forward
then fully rearward and note reading at Gauge
C-3293-SP.
(6) Pressure should be 145 - 175 psi (1000-1207
kPa) with throttle lever forward and increase to 230 -
280 psi (1586-1931 kPa) as lever is gradually moved
rearward.
Test Five - Governor Pressure
NOTE: This test checks governor operation by mea-
suring governor pressure response to changes in
vehicle speed. It is usually not necessary to check
governor operation unless shift speeds are incor-
rect or if the transmission will not downshift. The
test should be performed on the road or on a hoist
that will allow the rear wheels to rotate freely.
(1) Move 100 psi Test Gauge C-3292 to governor
pressure port.
(2) Move transmission shift lever two detents rear-
ward from full forward position. This is D range.
(3) Have helper start and run engine at curb idle
speed. Then firmly apply service brakes so wheels
will not rotate.
(4) Note governor pressure:
²Governor pressure should be no more than 20.6
kPa (3 psi) at curb idle speed and wheels not rotat-
ing.
²If pressure exceeds 20.6 kPa (3 psi), a fault
exists in governor pressure control system.
(5) Release brakes, slowly increase engine speed,
and observe speedometer and pressure test gauge (do
not exceed 30 mph on speedometer). Governor pres-
sure should increase in proportion to vehicle speed.
Or approximately 6.89 kPa (1 psi) for every 1 mph.
(6) Governor pressure rise should be smooth and
drop back to no more than 20.6 kPa (3 psi), after
engine returns to curb idle and brakes are applied to
prevent wheels from rotating.
(7) Compare results of pressure test with analysis
chart.Test Six - Transmission In Overdrive Fourth Gear
NOTE: This test checks line pressure at the over-
drive clutch in fourth gear range. Use 300 psi Test
Gauge C-3293-SP for this test. The test should be
performed on the road or on a chassis dyno.
(1) Remove tachometer; it is not needed for this
test.
(2) Move 300 psi Gauge to overdrive clutch pres-
sure test port. Then remove other gauge and reinstall
test port plug.
(3) Lower vehicle.
(4) Turn OD switch on.
(5) Secure test gauge so it can be viewed from
drivers seat.
(6) Start engine and shift into D range.
(7) Increase vehicle speed gradually until 3-4 shift
occurs and note gauge pressure.
(8) Pressure should be 469-496 kPa (68-72 psi)
with closed throttle and increase to 620-827 kPa (90-
120 psi) at 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. Note that pressure can
increase to around 896 kPa (130 psi) at full throttle.
(9) Return to shop or move vehicle off chassis
dyno.
PRESSURE TEST ANALYSIS CHART
TEST CONDITION INDICATION
Line pressure OK during
any one testPump and regulator
valve OK
Line pressure OK in R
but low in D, 2, 1Leakage in rear clutch
area (seal rings, clutch
seals)
Pressure low in D Fourth
Gear RangeOverdrive clutch piston
seal, or check ball
problem
Pressure OK in 1, 2 but
low in D3 and RLeakage in front clutch
area
Pressure OK in 2 but low
in R and 1Leakage in rear servo
Front servo pressure in 2 Leakage in servo; broken
servo ring or cracked
servo piston
Pressure low in all
positionsClogged filter, stuck
regulator valve, worn or
faulty pump, low oil level
Governor pressure too
high at idle speedGovernor pressure
solenoid valve system
fault. Refer to diagnostic
book.
21 - 14 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42REWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)
DIAGNOSIS CHARTS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
HARSH
ENGAGEMENT
(FROM NEUTRAL TO
DRIVE OR REVERSE)1. Fluid Level Low. 1. Add Fluid
2. Throttle Linkage Mis-adjusted. 2. Adjust linkage - setting may be too long.
3. Mount and Driveline Bolts
Loose.3. Check engine mount, transmission mount,
propeller shaft, rear spring to body bolts, rear
control arms, crossmember and axle bolt torque.
Tighten loose bolts and replace missing bolts.
4. U-Joint Worn/Broken. 4. Remove propeller shaft and replace U-Joint.
5. Axle Backlash Incorrect. 5. Check per Service Manual. Correct as needed.
6. Hydraulic Pressure Incorrect. 6. Check pressure. Remove, overhaul or adjust
valve body as needed.
7. Band Mis-adjusted. 7. Adjust rear band.
8. Valve Body Check Balls Missing. 8. Inspect valve body for proper check ball
installation.
9. Axle Pinion Flange Loose. 9. Replace nut and check pinion threads before
installing new nut. Replace pinion gear if threads
are damaged.
10. Clutch, band or planetary
component damaged.10. Remove, disassemble and repair transmission
as necessary.
11. Converter Clutch Faulty. 11. Replace converter and flush cooler and line
before installing new converter.
DELAYED
ENGAGEMENT
(FROM NEUTRAL TO
DRIVE OR REVERSE)1. Fluid Level Low. 1. Correct level and check for leaks.
2. Filter Clogged. 2. Change filter.
3. Gearshift Linkage Mis-adjusted. 3. Adjust linkage and repair linkage if worn or
damaged.
4. Torque Converter Drain Back
(Oil drains from torque converter
into transmission sump).4. If vehicle moves normally after 5 seconds after
shifting into gear, no repair is necessary. If longer,
inspect pump bushing for wear. Replace pump
house.
5. Rear Band Mis-adjusted. 5. Adjust band.
6. Valve Body Filter Plugged. 6. Replace fluid and filter. If oil pan and old fluid
were full of clutch disc material and/or metal
particles, overhaul will be necessary.
7. Oil Pump Gears Worn/Damaged. 7. Remove transmission and replace oil pump.
8. Governor Circuit and Solenoid
Valve Electrical Fault.8. Test with DRBTscan tool and repair as
required.
9. Hydraulic Pressure Incorrect. 9. Perform pressure test, remove transmission
and repair as needed.
10. Reaction Shaft Seal Rings
Worn/Broken.10. Remove transmission, remove oil pump and
replace seal rings.
11. Rear Clutch/Input Shaft, Rear
Clutch Seal Rings Damaged.11. Remove and disassemble transmission and
repair as necessary.
12. Regulator Valve Stuck. 12. Clean.
13. Cooler Plugged. 13. Transfer case failure can plug cooler.
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 17
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
BUZZING NOISE 1. Fluid Level Low 1. Add fluid and check for leaks.
2. Shift Cable Mis-assembled. 2. Route cable away from engine and bell
housing.
3. Valve Body Mis-assembled. 3. Remove, disassemble, inspect valve body.
Reassemble correctly if necessary. Replace
assembly if valves or springs are damaged.
Check for loose bolts or screws.
4. Pump Passages Leaking. 4. Check pump for porous casting, scores on
mating surfaces and excess rotor clearance.
Repair as required. Loose pump bolts.
5. Cooling System Cooler Plugged. 5. Flow check cooler circuit. Repair as needed.
6. Overrunning Clutch Damaged. 6. Replace clutch.
SLIPS IN REVERSE
ONLY1. Fluid Level Low. 1. Add fluid and check for leaks.
2. Gearshift Linkage Mis-adjusted. 2. Adjust linkage.
3. Rear Band Mis-adjusted. 3. Adjust band.
4. Rear Band Worn. 4. Replace as required.
5. Overdrive Direct Clutch Worn. 5. Disassemble overdrive. Repair as needed.
6. Hydraulic Pressure Too Low. 6. Perform hydraulic pressure tests to determine
cause.
7. Rear Servo Leaking. 7. Air pressure check clutch-servo operation and
repair as required.
8. Band Linkage Binding. 8. Inspect and repair as required.
SLIPS IN FORWARD
DRIVE RANGES1. Fluid Level Low. 1. Add fluid and check for leaks.
2. Fluid Foaming. 2. Check for high oil level, bad pump gasket or
seals, dirt between pump halves and loose pump
bolts. Replace pump if necessary.
3. Throttle Linkage Mis-adjusted. 3. Adjust linkage.
4. Gearshift Linkage Mis-adjusted. 4. Adjust linkage.
5. Rear Clutch Worn. 5. Inspect and replace as needed.
6. Low Hydraulic Pressure Due to
Worn Pump, Incorrect Control
Pressure Adjustments, Valve Body
Warpage or Malfunction, Sticking,
Leaking Seal Rings, Clutch Seals
Leaking, Servo Leaks, Clogged
Filter or Cooler Lines.6. Perform hydraulic and air pressure tests to
determine cause.
7. Rear Clutch Malfunction,
Leaking Seals or Worn Plates.7. Air pressure check clutch-servo operation and
repair as required.
8. Overrunning Clutch Worn, Not
Holding (Slips in 1 Only).8. Replace Clutch.
SLIPS IN LOW GEAR
9D9ONLY, BUT NOT
IN MANUAL 1
POSITIONOverrunning Clutch Faulty. Replace overrunning clutch.
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 21
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE (Continued)
Normal calibration will be performed when sump
temperature is above 50 degrees F, or in the absence
of sump temperature data, after the first 10 minutes
of vehicle operation. Calibration of the pressure
transducer offset occurs each time the output shaft
speed falls below 200 RPM. Calibration shall be
repeated each 3 seconds the output shaft speed is
below 200 RPM. A 0.5 second pulse of 95% duty cycle
is applied to the governor pressure solenoid valve
and the transducer output is read during this pulse.
Averaging of the transducer signal is necessary to
reject electrical noise.
Under cold conditions (below 50 degrees F sump),
the governor pressure solenoid valve response may
be too slow to guarantee 0 psi during the 0.5 second
calibration pulse. Calibration pulses are continued
during this period, however the transducer output
valves are discarded. Transducer offset must be read
at key-on, under conditions which promote a stable
reading. This value is retained and becomes the off-
set during the9cold9period of operation.
GOVERNOR PRESSURE SOLENOID VALVE
The inlet side of the solenoid valve is exposed to
normal transmission line pressure. The outlet side of
the valve leads to the valve body governor circuit.
The solenoid valve regulates line pressure to pro-
duce governor pressure. The average current sup-
plied to the solenoid controls governor pressure. One
amp current produces zero kPa/psi governor pres-
sure. Zero amps sets the maximum governor pres-
sure.
The powertrain control module (PCM) turns on the
trans control relay which supplies electrical power to
the solenoid valve. Operating voltage is 12 volts
(DC). The PCM controls the ground side of the sole-
noid using the governor pressure solenoid control cir-
cuit.
GOVERNOR PRESSURE SENSOR
The sensor output signal provides the necessary
feedback to the PCM. This feedback is needed to ade-
quately control governor pressure.
GOVERNOR BODY AND TRANSFER PLATE
The transfer plate channels line pressure to the
solenoid valve through the governor body. It also
channels governor pressure from the solenoid valve
to the governor circuit. It is the solenoid valve that
develops the necessary governor pressure.
GOVERNOR PRESSURE CURVES
LOW TRANSMISSION FLUID TEMPERATURE
When the transmission fluid is cold the conven-
tional governor can delay shifts, resulting in higherthan normal shift speeds and harsh shifts. The elec-
tronically controlled low temperature governor pres-
sure curve is higher than normal to make the
transmission shift at normal speeds and sooner. The
PCM uses a temperature sensor in the transmission
oil sump to determine when low temperature gover-
nor pressure is needed.
NORMAL OPERATION
Normal operation is refined through the increased
computing power of the PCM and through access to
data on engine operating conditions provided by the
PCM that were not available with the previous
stand-alone electronic module. This facilitated the
development of a load adaptive shift strategy - the
ability to alter the shift schedule in response to vehi-
cle load condition. One manifestation of this capabil-
ity is grade9hunting9prevention - the ability of the
transmission logic to delay an upshift on a grade if
the engine does not have sufficient power to main-
tain speed in the higher gear. The 3-2 downshift and
the potential for hunting between gears occurs with a
heavily loaded vehicle or on steep grades. When
hunting occurs, it is very objectionable because shifts
are frequent and accompanied by large changes in
noise and acceleration.
WIDE OPEN THROTTLE OPERATION
In wide-open throttle (WOT) mode, adaptive mem-
ory in the PCM assures that up-shifts occur at the
preprogrammed optimum speed. WOT operation is
determined from the throttle position sensor, which
is also a part of the emission control system. The ini-
tial setting for the WOT upshift is below the opti-
mum engine speed. As WOT shifts are repeated, the
PCM learns the time required to complete the shifts
by comparing the engine speed when the shifts occur
to the optimum speed. After each shift, the PCM
adjusts the shift point until the optimum speed is
reached. The PCM also considers vehicle loading,
grade and engine performance changes due to high
altitude in determining when to make WOT shifts. It
does this by measuring vehicle and engine accelera-
tion and then factoring in the shift time.
TRANSFER CASE LOW RANGE OPERATION
On four-wheel drive vehicles operating in low
range, the engine can accelerate to its peak more
rapidly than in Normal range, resulting in delayed
shifts and undesirable engine9flare.9The low range
governor pressure curve is also higher than normal
to initiate upshifts sooner. The PCM compares elec-
tronic vehicle speed signal used by the speedometer
to the transmission output shaft speed signal to
determine when the transfer case is in low range.
21 - 66 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42REWJ
ELECTRONIC GOVERNOR (Continued)
(1) A result of restricted fluid flow through the
main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usu-
ally the result of a faulty or improperly installed
drainback valve, a damaged main cooler, or severe
restrictions in the coolers and lines caused by debris
or kinked lines.
(2) Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not prop-
erly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer tow-
ing or similar high load operation will overheat the
transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly
equipped. Such vehicles should have an auxiliary
transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling sys-
tem, and the engine/axle ratio combination needed to
handle heavy loads.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FLUID
CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a
result of:
²adding incorrect fluid
²failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when
checking level
²engine coolant entering the fluid
²internal failure that generates debris
²overheat that generates sludge (fluid break-
down)
²failure to reverse flush cooler and lines after
repair
²failure to replace contaminated converter after
repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in
transmission failure. The usual results are erratic
shifts, slippage, abnormal wear and eventual failure
due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid
this condition by using recommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped
clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and
other foreign material on the cap and tube could fall
into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the
time to wipe the cap and tube clean before withdraw-
ing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is gener-
ally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy
is to replace the radiator as the cooler in the radiator
is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated
through the transmission, an overhaul is necessary.
The transmission cooler and lines should be
reverse flushed whenever a malfunction generates
sludge and/or debris. The torque converter should
also be replaced at the same time.
Failure to flush the cooler and lines will result in
recontamination. Flushing applies to auxiliary coolers
as well. The torque converter should also be replaced
whenever a failure generates sludge and debris. This
is necessary because normal converter flushing proce-
dures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL
CHECK
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 transmssion has too much fluid, the
geartrain churns up foam and cause the same condi-
tions 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 transmission vent where it may be mis-
taken for a leak.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
The transmission has a dipstick to check oil level.
It is located on the right side of the engine. Be sure
to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle before removing.
Fluid level is checked with the engine running at
curb idle speed, the transmission in NEUTRAL and
the transmission fluid at normal operating tempera-
ture.The engine should be running at idle
speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle
on level ground.
The transmission fluid level can be checked two
ways.
PROCEDURE ONE
(1) Transmission fluid must be at normal operat-
ing temperature for accurate fluid level check. Drive
vehicle if necessary to bring fluid temperature up to
normal hot operating temperature of 82ÉC (180ÉF).
(2) Position vehicle on level surface.
(3) Start and run engine at curb idle speed.
(4) Apply parking brakes.
(5) Shift transmission momentarily into all gear
ranges. Then shift transmission back to NEUTRAL.
(6) Clean top of filler tube and dipstick to keep
dirt from entering tube.
(7) Remove dipstick (Fig. 87) and check fluid level
as follows:
(a) Correct acceptable level is in crosshatch area.
(b) Correct maximum level is to MAX arrow
mark.
(c) Incorrect level is at or below MIN line.
(d) If fluid is low, add only enough MopartAT F
+4, type 9602, to restore correct level. Do not over-
fill.
21 - 70 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42REWJ
FLUID AND FILTER (Continued)