GOVERNOR BODY, SENSOR AND SOLENOID
(1) Turn valve body assembly over so accumulator
side of transfer plate is facing down.
(2) Install new O-rings on governor pressure sole-
noid and sensor.
(3) Lubricate solenoid and sensor O-rings with
clean transmission fluid.
(4) Install governor pressure sensor in governor
body.
(5) Install governor pressure solenoid in governor
body. Push solenoid in until it snaps into place in
body.
(6) Position governor body gasket on transfer
plate.
(7) Install retainer plate on governor body and
around solenoid. Be sure solenoid connector is posi-
tioned in retainer cutout.
(8) Align screw holes in governor body and trans-
fer plate. Then install and tighten governor body
screws to 4 N´m (35 in. lbs.) torque.
(9) Connect harness wires to governor pressure
solenoid and governor pressure sensor.
(10) Install fluid filter and pan.
(11) Lower vehicle.
(12) Fill transmission with recommended fluid and
road test vehicle to verify repair.
INSTALLATION
(1) Check condition of O-ring seals on valve body
harness connector (Fig. 330). Replace seals on con-
nector body if cut or worn.
(2) Check condition of manual lever shaft seal in
transmission case. Replace seal if lip is cut or worn.
Install new seal with 15/16 deep well socket (Fig.
331).
(3) Check condition of seals on accumulator piston
(Fig. 332). Install new piston seals, if necessary.
(4) Place valve body manual lever in low (1 posi-
tion) so ball on park lock rod will be easier to install
in sprag.
(5) Lubricate shaft of manual lever with petroleum
jelly. This will ease inserting shaft through seal in
case.
(6) Lubricate seal rings on valve body harness con-
nector with petroleum jelly.
(7) Position valve body in case and work end of
park lock rod into and through pawl sprag. Turn pro-
peller shaft to align sprag and park lock teeth if nec-
essary. The rod will click as it enters pawl. Move rod
to check engagement.
CAUTION: It is possible for the park rod to displace
into a cavity just above the pawl sprag during
installation. Make sure the rod is actually engaged
in the pawl and has not displaced into this cavity.(8) Install accumulator springs and piston into
case. Then swing valve body over piston and outer
spring to hold it in place.
(9) Align accumulator piston and outer spring,
manual lever shaft and electrical connector in case.
(10) Then seat valve body in case and install one
or two bolts to hold valve body in place.
(11) Tighten valve body bolts alternately and
evenly to 11 N´m (100 in. lbs.) torque.
(12) Install new fluid filter on valve body. Tighten
filter screws to 4 N´m (35 in. lbs.) torque.
(13) Install throttle and gearshift levers on valve
body manual lever shaft.
(14) Check and adjust front and rear bands if nec-
essary.
(15) Connect solenoid case connector wires.
(16) Install oil pan and new gasket. Tighten pan
bolts to 13.6 N´m (125 in. lbs.) torque.
(17) Lower vehicle and fill transmission with
MopartATF +4, type 9602, fluid.
(18) Check and adjust gearshift and throttle valve
cables, if necessary.
ADJUSTMENTS - VALVE BODY
CONTROL PRESSURE ADJUSTMENTS
There are two control pressure adjustments on the
valve body;
²Line Pressure
²Throttle Pressure
Line and throttle pressures are interdependent
because each affects shift quality and timing. As a
result, both adjustments must be performed properly
and in the correct sequence. Adjust line pressure first
and throttle pressure last.
Fig. 330 Valve Body Harness Connector O-Ring Seal
1 - CONNECTOR O-RINGS
2 - VALVE BODY HARNESS CONNECTOR
3 - HARNESS
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42RE 21 - 175
VALVE BODY (Continued)
LINE PRESSURE ADJUSTMENT
Measure distance from the valve body to the inner
edge of the adjusting screw with an accurate steel
scale (Fig. 333).
Distance should be 33.4 mm (1-5/16 in.).
If adjustment is required, turn the adjusting screw
in, or out, to obtain required distance setting.
NOTE: The 33.4 mm (1-5/16 in.) setting is an
approximate setting. Manufacturing tolerances may
make it necessary to vary from this dimension to
obtain desired pressure.
One complete turn of the adjusting screw changes
line pressure approximately 1-2/3 psi (9 kPa).
Turning the adjusting screw counterclockwise
increases pressure while turning the screw clockwise
decreases pressure.THROTTLE PRESSURE ADJUSTMENT
Insert Gauge Tool C-3763 between the throttle
lever cam and the kickdown valve stem (Fig. 334).
Push the gauge tool inward to compress the kick-
down valve against the spring and bottom the throt-
tle valve.
Maintain pressure against kickdown valve spring.
Turn throttle lever stop screw until the screw head
touches throttle lever tang and the throttle lever cam
touches gauge tool.
NOTE: The kickdown valve spring must be fully
compressed and the kickdown valve completely
bottomed to obtain correct adjustment.
Fig. 331 Manual Lever Shaft Seal
1 - 15/1688SOCKET
2 - SEAL
Fig. 332 Accumulator Piston Components
1 - INNER SPRING
2 - ACCUMULATOR PISTON
3 - OUTER SPRING
4 - SEAL RINGS
Fig. 333 Line Pressure Adjustment
1 - WRENCH
2 - 1±5/16 INCH
Fig. 334 Throttle Pressure Adjustment
1 - HEX WRENCH (IN THROTTLE LEVER ADJUSTING SCREW)
2 - SPECIAL TOOL C-3763 (POSITIONED BETWEEN THROTTLE
LEVER AND KICKDOWN VALVE)
21 - 176 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 42REWJ
VALVE BODY (Continued)
TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION
Transmission identification numbers are stamped
on the left side of the case just above the oil pan
sealing surface (Fig. 1). Refer to this information
when ordering replacement parts. A label is attached
to the transmission case above the stamped numbers.
The label gives additional information which may
also be necessary for identification purposes.
GEAR RATIOS The 545RFE gear ratios are:
1st .................................3.00:1
2nd.................................1.67:1
2nd Prime............................1.50:1
3rd .................................1.00:1
4th .................................0.75:1
5th .................................0.67:1
Reverse..............................3.00:1
OPERATION
The 545RFE offers full electronic control of all auto-
matic up and downshifts, and features real-time adap-
tive closed-loop shift and pressure control. Electronic
shift and torque converter clutch controls help protect
the transmission from damage due to high tempera-
tures, which can occur under severe operating condi-
tions. By altering shift schedules, line pressure, and
converter clutch control, these controls reduce heat gen-
eration and increase transmission cooling.
To help reduce efficiency-robbing parasitic losses,
the transmission includes a dual-stage transmission
fluid pump with electronic output pressure control.
Under most driving conditions, pump output pres-
sure greatly exceeds that which is needed to keep the
clutches applied. The 545RFE pump-pressure controlsystem monitors input torque and adjusts the pump
pressure accordingly. The primary stage of the pump
works continuously; the second stage is bypassed
when demand is low. The control system also moni-
tors input and output speed and, if incipient clutch
slip is observed, the pressure control solenoid duty
cycle is varied, increasing pressure in proportion to
demand.
A high-travel torque converter damper assembly
allows earlier torque converter clutch engagement to
reduce slippage. Needle-type thrust bearings reduce
internal friction. The 545RFE is packaged in a one-
piece die-cast aluminum case. To reduce NVH, the
case has high lateral, vertical and torsional stiffness.
It is also designed to maximize the benefit of the
structural dust cover that connects the bottom of the
bell housing to the engine bedplate, enhancing over-
all power train stiffness. Dual filters protect the
pump and other components. A pump return filter is
added to the customary main sump filter. Indepen-
dent lubrication and cooler circuits assure ample
pressure for normal transmission operation even if
the cooler is obstructed or the fluid cannot flow due
to extremely low temperatures.
The hydraulic control system design (without elec-
tronic assist) provides the transmission with PARK,
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, SECOND, and THIRD gears,
based solely on driver shift lever selection. This
design allows the vehicle to be driven (in ªlimp-inº
mode) in the event of a electronic control system fail-
ure, or a situation that the Transmission Control
Module (TCM) recognizes as potentially damaging to
the transmission.
The TCM also performs certain self-diagnostic
functions and provides comprehensive information
(sensor data, DTC's, etc.) which is helpful in proper
diagnosis and repair. This information can be viewed
with the DRB scan tool.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION
CAUTION: Before attempting any repair on a
545RFE automatic transmission, check for Diagnos-
tic Trouble Codes with the DRBTscan tool.
Transmission malfunctions may be caused by these
general conditions:
²Poor engine performance
²Improper adjustments
²Hydraulic malfunctions
²Mechanical malfunctions
²Electronic malfunctions
Fig. 1 Transmission Part And Serial Number
Location
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 179
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
(12) Disconnect gearshift cable from transmission
manual valve lever (Fig. 9).
(13) Disconnect transfer case shift cable from the
transfer case shift lever (Fig. 10).
(14) Remove the clip securing the transfer case
shift cable into the cable support bracket.
(15) Disconnect transmission fluid cooler lines at
transmission fittings and clips.
(16) Disconnect the transmission vent hose from
the transmission.
(17) Support rear of engine with safety stand or
jack.
(18) Raise transmission slightly with service jack
to relieve load on crossmember and supports.(19) Remove bolts securing rear support and cush-
ion to transmission and crossmember (Fig. 11).
(20) Remove bolts attaching crossmember to frame
and remove crossmember.
(21) Remove transfer case (Fig. 12) and (Fig. 13).
(22) Remove all remaining converter housing bolts.
(23) Carefully work transmission and torque con-
verter assembly rearward off engine block dowels.
(24) Hold torque converter in place during trans-
mission removal.
(25) Lower transmission and remove assembly
from under the vehicle.
Fig. 9 Transmission Shift Cable
1 - SHIFT CABLE
2 - MANUAL LEVER
3 - MANUAL LEVER
Fig. 10 Transfer Case Shift Cable
1 - TRANSFER CASE SHIFT LEVER
2 - TRANSFER CASE SHIFT CABLE
Fig. 11 Rear Transmission Crossmember
1 - CROSSMEMBER
2 - REAR TRANSMISSION MOUNT
Fig. 12 Remove NV247 Transfer Case
1 - NV247 TRANSFER CASE
21 - 184 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
(26) To remove torque converter, carefully slide
torque converter out of the transmission.
DISASSEMBLY
(1) Drain fluid from transmission.
(2) Clean exterior of transmission with suitable
solvent or pressure washer.
(3) Remove the torque converter from the trans-
mission.
(4) Remove the manual shift lever from the trans-
mission.
(5) Remove the input, output, and line pressure
sensors from the transmission case (Fig. 14).(6) Inspect the ends of the sensors for debris,
which may indicate the nature of the transmission
failure.
(7) Install Support Stand 8257 onto the transmis-
sion case (Fig. 15).
(8) Using Adapter 8266-1 from End-Play Tool Set
8266 and Dial Indicator C-3339, measure and record
the input shaft end-play (Fig. 16).
Fig. 13 Remove NV242 Transfer Case
1 - NV242 TRANSFER CASE
Fig. 14 Remove Input, Output, and Line Pressure
Sensors
1 - OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - LINE PRESSURE SENSOR
3 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
Fig. 15 Install Support Stand - Tool 8257
1 - TOOL 8257
Fig. 16 Measure Input Shaft End Play
1 - TOOL 8266
2 - TOOL C-3339
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 185
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
(48) Remove the manual selector shaft seal.
(49) Remove the dipstick tube seal.
CLEANING
The use of crocus cloth is permissible where neces-
sary, providing it is used carefully. When used on
shafts, or valves, use extreme care to avoid rounding
off sharp edges. Sharp edges are vital as they pre-
vent foreign matter from getting between the valve
and valve bore.
Do not reuse oil seals, gaskets, seal rings, or
O-rings during overhaul. Replace these parts as a
matter of course. Also do not reuse snap rings or
E-clips that are bent or distorted. Replace these parts
as well.
Lubricate transmission parts with MopartATF +4,
Type 9602, transmission fluid during overhaul and
assembly. Use petroleum jelly, MopartDoor Ease, or
Ru-Glyde to prelubricate seals, O-rings, and thrust
washers. Petroleum jelly can also be used to hold
parts in place during reassembly.Clean the case in a solvent tank. Flush the case
bores and fluid passages thoroughly with solvent.
Dry the case and all fluid passages with compressed
air. Be sure all solvent is removed from the case and
that all fluid passages are clear.
NOTE: Do not use shop towels or rags to dry the
case (or any other transmission component) unless
they are made from lint-free materials. Lint will stick
to case surfaces and transmission components and
circulate throughout the transmission after assem-
bly. A sufficient quantity of lint can block fluid pas-
sages and interfere with valve body operation.
INSPECTION
Inspect the case for cracks, porous spots, worn
bores, or damaged threads. Damaged threads can be
repaired with Helicoil thread inserts. However, the
case will have to be replaced if it exhibits any type of
damage or wear.
ASSEMBLY
(1) Clean and inspect all components. Replace any
components which show evidence of excessive wear
or scoring.
(2) Install the cooler filter bypass valve.
(3) Torque the bypass valve to specification. The
valve uses a tapered pipe thread and excessive
torque can damage the transmission case. Tighten
the cooler filter bypass valve to 4.5 N´m (40 in.lbs.).
(4) Install a new selector shaft seal using Seal
Installer 8253 (Fig. 31).
Fig. 30 Manual Shaft/Park Lock Components
1 - GUIDE
2 - SNAP-RING
3 - SHAFT
4 - SPRING
5 - PARK PAWL
6 - MANUAL SHAFT/LEVER
7 - PARK ROD
Fig. 31 Install Selector Shaft
1 - SEAL
2 - TOOL 8253
21 - 190 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
(5) Install the manual selector shaft and retaining
screw. Tighten the manual selector shaft retaining
screw to 28 N´m (250 in.lbs.).
(6) Install the park pawl, spring, and shaft (Fig.
32).
(7) Install the park rod and e-clip (Fig. 32).
(8) Install the park rod guide and snap-ring (Fig.
32).
(9) Install a new dipstick tube seal using Seal
Installer 8254 (Fig. 33).
NOTE: Before final assembly of transmission cen-
terline, the 2C/4C clutch components should be
installed into position and measured as follows:
(10) Install the 2C reaction plate into the trans-
mission case (Fig. 34). The reaction plate is direc-
tional. The plate must be installed with the flat side
toward the front of the transmission.
(11) Install the 2C clutch pack into the transmis-
sion case (Fig. 34).(12) Install the flat 2C clutch snap-ring into the
transmission case (Fig. 34).
(13) Install the 4C retainer/bulkhead into the
transmission case. Make sure that the oil feed holes
are pointing toward the valve body area.
(14) Install the 4C retainer/bulkhead tapered
snap-ring into the transmission case. Make sure that
the open ends of the snap-ring are located in the case
opening toward the valve body area.
Fig. 32 Manual Shaft/Park Lock Components
1 - GUIDE
2 - SNAP-RING
3 - SHAFT
4 - SPRING
5 - PARK PAWL
6 - MANUAL SHAFT/LEVER
7 - PARK ROD
Fig. 33 Install Dipstick Tube Seal Using Tool 8254
1 - TOOL 8254
2 - SEAL
Fig. 34 Install 2C Clutch Pack
1 - SNAP-RING
2 - PLATE
3 - DISC
4 - REACTION PLATE
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 191
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
(45) Using Adapter 8266-1 from End-Play Tool Set
8266 and Dial Indicator C-3339, measure and record
the input shaft end-play (Fig. 46). The correct end-
play is 0.46-0.89 mm (0.018-0.035 in.). Adjust as nec-
essary. Install the chosen thrust plate on the number
5 bearing and re-measure end-play to verify selec-
tion.
NOTE: When measuring the input shaft end-play,
two(stops(will be felt. When the input shaft is
pushed inward and the dial indicator zeroed, the
first(stop(felt when the input shaft is pulled out-
ward is the movement of the input shaft in the input
clutch housing hub. This value should not be
included in the end-play measured value and there-
fore must be recorded and subtracted from the dial
indicator reading.
(46) Install the transmission front cover into the
transmission case (Fig. 47).
(47) Install the outer snap-ring to hold the trans-
mission front cover into the transmission case (Fig.
47).
(48) Partially install the inner transmission front
cover snap-ring onto the oil pump (Fig. 47).(49) Using Installer 8255, install the inner trans-
mission front cover snap-ring the remainder of the
way onto the oil pump (Fig. 48).
(50) Install the valve body (Fig. 49). Verify that
the pin on the manual lever has properly engaged
the TRS selector plate. Tighten the valve body to
transmission case bolts to 12 N´m (105 in.lbs.).
Fig. 46 Measure Input Shaft End Play
1 - TOOL 8266
2 - TOOL C-3339
Fig. 47 Install the Transmission Front Cover
1 - INNER SNAP-RING
2 - TRANSMISSION COVER
3 - OUTER SNAP-RING
Fig. 48 Seat Snap-Ring Using Tool 8255
1 - TOOL 8255
2 - SNAP-RING
21 - 196 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)