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)
Diagnosis of these problems should always begin
by checking the easily accessible variables: fluid level
and condition, gearshift cable adjustment. Then per-
form a road test to determine if the problem has been
corrected or if more diagnosis is necessary. If the
problem persists after the preliminary tests and cor-
rections are completed, hydraulic pressure checks
should be performed.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRELIMINARY
Two basic procedures are required. One procedure for
vehicles that are drivable and an alternate procedure for
disabled vehicles (will not back up or move forward).
VEHICLE IS DRIVABLE
(1) Check for transmission fault codes using DRBt
scan tool.
(2) Check fluid level and condition.
(3) Adjust gearshift cable if complaint was based
on delayed, erratic, or harsh shifts.
(4) Road test and note how transmission upshifts,
downshifts, and engages.
(5) Perform stall test if complaint is based on slug-
gish acceleration. Or, if abnormal throttle opening is
needed to maintain normal speeds with a properly
tuned engine.
(6) Perform hydraulic pressure test if shift prob-
lems were noted during road test.
(7)
Perform air-pressure test to check clutch operation.
VEHICLE IS DISABLED
(1) Check fluid level and condition.
(2)
Check for broken or disconnected gearshift cable.
(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 driveplate, 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 all diagnostic trou-
ble 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, overrunning clutch, or line presure problems.
A slipping clutch can often be determined by com-
paring which internal units are applied in the vari-
ous gear ranges. The Clutch Application chart
provides a basis for analyzing road test results.
CLUTCH APPLICATION CHART
SLP UD OD R 2C 4C L/R OVERRUNNING
P±PARKON
R±REVERSEON ON
N-NEUTRALON
D±OVERDRIVE
FIRSTON ON* ON
SECONDON ON
SECOND PRIMEON ON
THIRDON ON
FOURTHON ON
FIFTHON ON
LIMP-INON ON
2±FIRSTON ON* ON
SECONDON ON
LIMP-INON ON
1±LOWON ON ON
*L/R clutch is on only with the output shaft speed below 150 rpm.
21 - 180 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
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.
(9) Remove the bolts holding the transmission
extension/adapter housing to the transmission case.
(10) Remove the extension/adapter housing from
the transmission case.
(11) Using Alignment Plate 8261, Adapter 8266-17
from End-Play Tool Set 8266 and Dial Indicator
C-3339, measure and record the output shaft end-
play (Fig. 17).
(12) Remove the bolts holding the transmission oil
pan to the transmission case.
(13) Remove the transmission oil pan from the
transmission case.
(14) Remove the primary oil filter and the oil
cooler return filter (Fig. 18).
(15) Remove the cooler return filter bypass valve.(16) Remove the bolts holding the valve body to
the transmission case (Fig. 19).
(17) Remove the valve body from the transmission
case.
(18) Remove the outer snap-ring securing the
transmission front cover into the transmission case
(Fig. 20).
Fig. 17 Measure Output Shaft End Play
1 - TOOL 8261
2 - TOOL 8266
3 - TOOL C-3339
Fig. 18 Remove Primary Oil and Cooler Filters
1 - PRIMARY OIL FILTER
2 - COOLER RETURN FILTER
3 - COOLER RETURN FILTER BYPASS VALVE
4 - VALVE BODY
Fig. 19 Remove Valve Body Assembly
1 - VALVE BODY TO CASE BOLT (6)
21 - 186 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
(51) Install a new primary oil filter seal in the oil
pump inlet bore. Seat the seal in the bore with the
butt end of a hammer, or other suitable tool.
CAUTION: The primary oil filter seal MUST be fully
installed flush against the oil pump body. DO NOT
install the seal onto the filter neck and attempt to
install the filter and seal as an assembly. Damage to
the transmission will result.
(52) Install the primary oil filter and the oil cooler
return filter (Fig. 50). Tighten the screw to hold the
primary oil filter to the valve body to 4.5 N´m (40
in.lbs.). Using Oil Filter Wrench 8321, tighten the
cooler return oil filter to the transmission case to 14
N´m (125 in.lbs.).
(53) Apply RTV silicone to the oil pan and install
the transmission oil pan. Tighten the bolts to 12 N´m
(105 in.lbs.).
(54) Install the input, output, and line pressure
sensors (Fig. 51). Tighten the bolts to 12 N´m (105
in.lbs.).
(55) Install the manual shift lever from the trans-
mission. Torque the retaining cross-bolt to 16 N´m
(140 in.lbs.).
INSTALLATION
(1) Check torque converter hub and hub drive flats
for sharp edges burrs, scratches, or nicks. Polish the
hub and flats with 320/400 grit paper and crocus
cloth if necessary. Verify that the converter hub
o-ring is properly installed and is free of any debris.
The hub must be smooth to avoid damaging pump
seal at installation.(2) If a replacement transmission is being
installed, transfer any components necessary, such as
the manual shift lever and shift cable bracket, from
the original transmission onto the replacement trans-
mission.
(3) Lubricate oil pump seal lip with transmission
fluid.
(4) Align converter and oil pump.
Fig. 49 Install Valve Body Assembly
1 - VALVE BODY TO CASE BOLT (6)
Fig. 50 Install Primary Oil and Cooler Filters
1 - PRIMARY OIL FILTER
2 - COOLER RETURN FILTER
3 - COOLER RETURN FILTER BYPASS VALVE
4 - VALVE BODY
Fig. 51 Install Input, Output, and Line Pressure
Sensors
1 - OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
2 - LINE PRESSURE SENSOR
3 - INPUT SPEED SENSOR
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 197
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
SPECIFICATIONS
TRANSMISSION
GENERAL
Component Metric Inch
Output Shaft End Play 0.22-0.55
mm0.009-0.021
in.
Input Shaft End Play 0.46-0.89
mm0.018-0.035
in.
2C Clutch Pack
Clearance0.455-1.335
mm0.018-0.053
in.
4C Clutch Pack
Clearance0.770-1.390
mm0.030-0.055
in.
L/R Clutch Pack
Clearance1.00-1.74
mm0.039-0.069
in.
OD Clutch Pack
Clearance1.103-1.856
mm0.043-0.073
in.
Component Metric Inch
UD Clutch Pack
Clearance0.84-1.54
mm0.033-0.061
in.
Reverse Clutch Pack
Clearance0.81-1.24
mm0.032-0.049
in.
Recommended fluid MoparTATF +4, type 9602
GEAR RATIOS
1ST 3.00:1
2ND 1.67:1
2ND Prime 1.50:1
3RD 1.0:1
4TH 0.75:1
5TH 0.67:1
REVERSE 3.00:1
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Fitting, cooler line at trans 17.5 - 155
Bolt, torque convertor 31 23 -
Bolt/nut, crossmember 68 50 -
Bolt, driveplate to crankshaft 75 55 -
Bolt, oil pan 11.8 - 105
Screw, primary fluid filter 4.5 - 40
Bolt, oil pump 28.2 - 250
Bolt, oil pump body to cover 4.5 - 40
Screw, plate to oil pump body 4.5 - 40
Bolt, valve body to case 11.8 - 105
Plug, pressure test port 5.1 - 45
Bolt, reaction shaft support 11.8 - 105
Screw, valve body to transfer plate 5.6 - 50
Screw, solenoid module to transfer plate 5.7 - 50
Screw, accumulator cover 4.5 - 40
Screw, detent spring 4.5 - 40
Bolt, input speed sensor 11.8 - 105
Bolt, output speed sensor 11.8 - 105
Bolt, line pressure sensor 11.8 - 105
Bolt, extension housing 54 40 -
Valve, cooler return filter bypass 4.5 - 40
Screw, manual valve cam retaining 4.5 - 40
Bolt, manual lever 28.2 - 250
21 - 220 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE (Continued)
4C RETAINER/BULKHEAD
DISASSEMBLY
(1) Remove the 2C piston belleville spring snap-
ring from the 4C retainer /bulkhead (Fig. 53).
(2) Remove the 2C piston Belleville spring from
the retainer/bulkhead (Fig. 53).
(3) Remove the 2C piston from the retainer/bulk-
head. Use 20 psi of air pressure to remove the piston
if necessary.
(4) Remove the 4C clutch snap-ring from the
retainer/bulkhead (Fig. 53).
(5) Remove the 4C clutch pack from the retainer/
bulkhead (Fig. 53).
(6) Using Spring Compressor 8250 and a suitable
shop press, compress the 4C piston return spring and
remove the snap-ring (Fig. 53).(7) Remove the 4C piston return spring and piston
from the retainer/bulkhead (Fig. 53). Use 20 psi of
air pressure to remove the piston if necessary.ASSEMBLY
(1) Clean and inspect all components. Replace any
components which show evidence of excessive wear
or scoring.
(2) Install new seals on the 2C and 4C pistons
(Fig. 53).
(3) Lubricate all seals with MopartATF +4, type
9602 prior to installation.
(4) Install the 4C piston into the 4C retainer/bulk-
head (Fig. 53).
(5) Position the 4C piston return spring onto the
4C piston.
Fig. 53 4C Retainer/Bulkhead Components
1 - SEAL 8 - REACTION PLATE
2 - 2C PISTON 9 - SNAP-RING
3 - PLATE 10 - RETURN SPRING
4 - DISC 11 - SEAL
5 - 2C BELLEVILLE SPRING 12 - 4C PISTON
6 - SNAP-RING 13 - 4C RETAINER/BULKHEAD
7 - SNAP-RING (SELECT)
21 - 224 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
(6) Using Spring Compressor 8250 and a suitable
shop press, compress the 4C piston return spring and
install the snap-ring (Fig. 54).
(7) Assemble and install the 4C clutch pack into
the retainer/bulkhead (Fig. 53) with the steel separa-
tor plate against the piston.
(8) Install the 4C reaction plate and snap-ring into
the retainer/bulkhead (Fig. 53). The 4C reaction plate
is non-directional.
(9) Measure the 4C clutch clearance. The correct
clutch clearance is 0.77-1.39 mm (0.030-0.055 in.).
The snap-ring is selectable. Install the chosen snap-
ring and re-measure to verify the selection.
(10) Install the 2C piston into the retainer/bulk-
head (Fig. 53).
(11) Position the 2C Belleville spring onto the 2C
piston.
(12) Position the 2C Belleville spring snap-ring
onto the 2C Belleville spring (Fig. 53).
(13) Using Spring Compressor 8249 and a suitable
shop press (Fig. 55), compress the belleville spring
until the snap-ring is engaged with the snap-ring
groove in the retainer/bulkhead.
ADAPTER HOUSING SEAL
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the transfer case from the transmis-
sion.
(2) Using a screw mounted on a slide hammer,
remove the adapter housing seal.
INSTALLATION
(1) Clean the adapter seal bore in the adapter
housing of any residue or particles remaining from
the original seal.
(2) Install new oil seal in the adapter housing
using Seal Installer C-3860-A (Fig. 56). A properly
installed seal is flush to the face of the seal bore.
(3) Install the transfer case onto the transmission.
Fig. 54 Compress 4C Piston Return Spring Using
Tool 8250
1 - PRESS
2 - TOOL 8250
Fig. 55 Compress 2C Belleville Spring Using Tool
8249
1 - PRESS
2 - TOOL 8249
Fig. 56 Adapter Housing Seal Installation
1 - TOOL C-3860-A
WJAUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFE 21 - 225
4C RETAINER/BULKHEAD (Continued)