OPERATION
The function of an accumulator is to cushion the
application of a frictional clutch element. When pres-
surized fluid is applied to a clutch circuit, the appli-
cation force is dampened by fluid collecting in the
respective accumulator chamber against the piston
and spring(s). The intended result is a smooth, firm
clutch application.
AUTOSTICK SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
Autostick is a driver-interactive transaxle feature
that offers manual gear shifting capability. The control
switch is part of the transaxle gear shift lever as
shown in (Fig. 171). It can only be serviced by replac-
ing the gearshift lever assembly. (Refer to 19 - STEER-
ING/COLUMN/GEAR SHIFT LEVER - REMOVAL)
OPERATION
When the shift lever is moved into the Autostick
position (as indicated by the Shift Lever Position
Indicator in the cluster), the transaxle remains in
whatever gear it was using before Autostick was acti-
vated. The TCM sends a 5 volt signal through the
switch and then monitors the signal for voltage drop.
Each switch state (driver command) results in a spe-
cific voltage reading sensed by the TCM. The TCM
then determines transaxle operation (upshift/down-
shift/OD Lockout) based on their corresponding volt-
age. Refer to the following chart for corresponding
switch states and voltage readings:
Switch State Voltage Reading
Autostick DOWN
depressed0.3V-1.6V
Autostick UP depressed 1.6V-2.8V
Overdrive OFF9Lockout9
depressed2.8V-3.8V
All switches open 3.8V-4.8V
-Voltage values <.3V and >4.8V are considered
INVALID and will result in a DTC
Fig. 169 Low/Reverse Accumulator Assembly
1 - ACCUMULATOR PISTON
2 - SEAL RINGS
3 - RETURN SPRINGS
4 - (NOTE NOTCH)
Fig. 170 2/4 Accumulator Assembly
1 - VALVE BODY
2 - RETAINER PLATE
3 - DETENT SPRING
4 - SPRINGS
5 - SEALS
6 - PISTON
Fig. 171 Autostick Switch Location (if equipped)
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 189
ACCUMULATOR (Continued)
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STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
SERVICE
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules in
LUBRICATION and MAINTENANCE, or the vehicle
owner's manual, for the recommended maintenance
(fluid/filter change) intervals for this transaxle.
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparTATF+4
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) 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. Refer to LUBRICA-
TION and MAINTENANCE for proper procedures.
Place a drain container 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) Install a new filter and o-ring on bottom of the
valve body (Fig. 211).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new Mopar Silicone Adhesive sealant. Tighten
oil pan bolts to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).(5) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) through the dipstick opening.
(6) Start engine and allow to idle for at least one
minute. Then, with parking and service brakes
applied, move selector lever momentarily to each
position, ending in the park or neutral position.
(7) Check the transaxle fluid level and add an
appropriate amount to bring the transaxle fluid level
to 3mm (1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dip-
stick (Fig. 212).
(8) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.). Refer
to Fluid Level and Condition Check for the proper
fluid fill procedure.
(9) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
DIPSTICK TUBE FLUID SUCTION METHOD
(ALTERNATIVE)
(1) When performing the fluid suction method,
make sure the transaxle is at full operating temper-
ature.
(2) To perform the dipstick tube fluid suction
method, use a suitable fluid suction device (VaculaŸ
or equivalent).
(3) Insert the fluid suction line into the dipstick
tube.
NOTE: Verify that the suction line is inserted to the
lowest point of the transaxle oil pan. This will
ensure complete evacuation of the fluid in the pan.
(4) Follow the manufacturers recommended proce-
dure and evacuate the fluid from the transaxle.
(5) Remove the suction line from the dipstick tube.
Fig. 211 Filter and O-Ring
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
Fig. 212 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 203
FLUID (Continued)
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