
Base cluster gauge illumination is provided by
replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb holder units
located on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board. Premium cluster gauge illumination is pro-
vided by an integral electro-luminescent lamp that is
serviced as a unit with the instrument cluster. The
oil pressure gauge is serviced as a unit with the
instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The oil pressure gauge gives an indication to the
vehicle operator of the engine oil pressure. This
gauge is controlled by the instrument cluster circuit
board based upon cluster programming and elec-
tronic messages received by the cluster from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over the Program-
mable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. The
oil pressure gauge is an air core magnetic unit that
receives battery current on the instrument cluster
electronic circuit board through the fused ignition
switch output (run-start) circuit whenever the igni-
tion switch is in the On or Start positions. The clus-
ter is programmed to move the gauge needle back to
the low end of the scale after the ignition switch is
turned to the Off position. The instrument cluster
circuitry controls the gauge needle position and pro-
vides the following features:
²Engine Oil Pressure Normal Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM
indicating the engine oil pressure is within the nor-
mal operating range [above 0.28 kg/cm (above 4
psi), the gauge needle is moved to the relative pres-
sure position of the gauge scale.
²Engine Oil Pressure Low Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM
indicating the engine oil pressure is about 0.28
kg/cm or lower (about 4 psi or lower), the gauge
needle is moved to the far left (low) end of the gauge
scale. The gauge needle remains at the low end of
the scale until the cluster receives a message from
the PCM indicating that the engine oil pressure is
about 0.56 kg/cm or higher (about 8 psi or higher).
²Communication Error- If the cluster fails to
receive an engine oil pressure message, it will hold
the gauge needle at the last indication for about
twelve seconds or until a new engine oil pressure
message is received, whichever occurs first. After
twelve seconds, the cluster will return the gauge nee-
dle to the low end of the gauge scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the gauge needle will be
swept across the entire gauge scale and back in order
to confirm the functionality of the gauge and the
cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the engine oil pres-
sure sensor to determine the engine oil pressure. ThePCM then sends the proper engine oil pressure mes-
sages to the instrument cluster. For further diagnosis
of the oil pressure gauge or the instrument cluster
circuitry that controls the gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING). If the instrument cluster turns on
the check gauges indicator due to a low oil pressure
gauge reading, it may indicate that the engine or the
engine oiling system requires service. For proper
diagnosis of the engine oil pressure sensor, the PCM,
the PCI data bus, or the electronic message inputs to
the instrument cluster that control the oil pressure
gauge, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
OVERDRIVE OFF INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
An overdrive off indicator is standard equipment
on all gasoline engine instrument clusters. The over-
drive off indicator is located in the lower edge of the
tachometer gauge dial face in the instrument cluster.
The overdrive off indicator consists of the words ªO/D
OFFº imprinted on an amber lens. The lens is
located behind a cutout in the opaque layer of the
tachometer gauge dial face overlay. The dark outer
layer of the gauge dial face overlay prevents the indi-
cator from being clearly visible when it is not illumi-
nated. The words ªO/D OFFº appear silhouetted
against an amber field through the translucent outer
layer of the gauge dial face overlay when the indica-
tor is illuminated from behind by a replaceable
incandescent bulb and bulb holder unit located on
the instrument cluster electronic circuit board. When
the exterior lighting is turned On, the illumination
intensity of the overdrive off indicator is dimmable,
which is adjusted using the panel lamps dimmer con-
trol ring on the control stalk of the left multi-func-
tion switch. The overdrive off indicator lens is
serviced as a unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The overdrive off indicator gives an indication to
the vehicle operator when the Off position of the
overdrive off switch has been selected, disabling the
electronically controlled overdrive feature of the auto-
matic transmission. This indicator is controlled by a
transistor on the instrument cluster circuit board
based upon cluster programming and electronic mes-
sages received by the cluster over the Programmable
Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. These
messages are sent by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) or by the Transmission Control Module
(TCM), depending on the model of the automatic
transmission. The overdrive off indicator bulb is com-
8J - 26 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERWJ
OIL PRESSURE GAUGE (Continued)

pletely controlled by the instrument cluster logic cir-
cuit, and that logic will only allow this indicator to
operate when the instrument cluster receives a bat-
tery current input on the fused ignition switch out-
put (run-start) circuit. Therefore, the indicator will
always be off when the ignition switch is in any posi-
tion except On or Start. The bulb only illuminates
when it is provided a path to ground by the instru-
ment cluster transistor. The instrument cluster will
turn on the overdrive off indicator for the following
reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the overdrive off indicator
is illuminated for about three seconds as a bulb test.
²Overdrive Off Indicator Lamp-On Message-
Each time the cluster receives an overdrive off indi-
cator lamp-on message from the PCM or TCM indi-
cating that the Off position of the overdrive off
switch has been selected, the overdrive off indicator
will be illuminated. The indicator remains illumi-
nated until the cluster receives an overdrive off indi-
cator lamp-off message from the PCM or TCM, or
until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position,
whichever occurs first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the overdrive off indicator
will be turned on for the duration of the test to con-
firm the functionality of the bulb and the cluster con-
trol circuitry.
The PCM or TCM continually monitors the over-
drive off switch to determine the proper outputs to
the automatic transmission. The PCM or TCM then
sends the proper overdrive off indicator lamp-on or
lamp-off messages to the instrument cluster. If the
overdrive off indicator fails to light during the bulb
test, replace the bulb with a known good unit. For
further diagnosis of the overdrive off indicator or the
instrument cluster circuitry that controls the indica-
tor, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). For
proper diagnosis of the overdrive control system, the
PCM, the TCM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic
message inputs to the instrument cluster that control
the overdrive off indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
REAR FOG LAMP INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A rear fog lamp indicator is standard equipment on
all instrument clusters, but is only functional on
vehicles equipped with optional rear fog lamps,
which are available only in certain international
markets where they are required. The rear fog lampindicator is located on the left edge of the instrument
cluster, to the left of the tachometer. The rear fog
lamp indicator consists of an International Control
and Display Symbol icon for ªRear Fog Lightº
imprinted on an amber lens. The lens is located
behind a cutout in the opaque layer of the instru-
ment cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of the
overlay prevents the indicator from being clearly vis-
ible when it is not illuminated. The icon appears sil-
houetted against an amber field through the
translucent outer layer of the overlay when the indi-
cator is illuminated from behind by a replaceable
incandescent bulb and bulb holder unit located on
the instrument cluster electronic circuit board. When
the exterior lighting is turned On, the illumination
intensity of the rear fog lamp indicator is dimmable,
which is adjusted using the panel lamps dimmer con-
trol ring on the control stalk of the left multi-func-
tion switch. The rear fog lamp indicator lens is
serviced as a unit with the instrument cluster lens,
hood and mask unit.
OPERATION
The rear fog lamp indicator gives an indication to
the vehicle operator whenever the rear fog lamps are
illuminated. This indicator is controlled by a transis-
tor on the instrument cluster electronic circuit board
based upon cluster programming and electronic mes-
sages received by the cluster from the Body Control
Module (BCM) over the Programmable Communica-
tions Interface (PCI) data bus. The rear fog lamp
indicator bulb is completely controlled by the instru-
ment cluster logic circuit, and that logic will allow
this indicator to operate whenever the instrument
cluster receives a battery current input on the fused
B(+) circuit. Therefore, the indicator can be illumi-
nated regardless of the ignition switch position. The
bulb only illuminates when it is provided a path to
ground by the instrument cluster transistor. The
instrument cluster will turn on the rear fog lamp
indicator for the following reasons:
²Rear Fog Lamp Indicator Lamp-On Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives a rear fog lamp
indicator lamp-on message from the BCM indicating
that the rear fog lamps are turned On, the rear fog
lamp indicator will be illuminated. The indicator
remains illuminated until the cluster receives a rear
fog lamp indicator lamp-off message from the BCM.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the rear fog lamp indicator
will be turned on for the duration of the test to con-
firm the functionality of the bulb and the cluster con-
trol circuitry.
The BCM continually monitors the exterior light-
ing (left multi-function) switch to determine the
proper outputs to the rear fog lamp relay. The BCM
WJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 27
OVERDRIVE OFF INDICATOR (Continued)

Control Module (PCM) over the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus. The tachome-
ter is an air core magnetic unit that receives battery
current on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board through the fused ignition switch output (run-
start) circuit whenever the ignition switch is in the
On or Start positions. The cluster is programmed to
move the gauge needle back to the low end of the
scale after the ignition switch is turned to the Off
position. The instrument cluster circuitry controls
the gauge needle position and provides the following
features:
²Engine Speed Message- Each time the cluster
receives an engine speed message from the PCM it
will calculate the correct engine speed reading and
position the gauge needle at that speed position on
the gauge scale. The cluster will receive a new
engine speed message and reposition the gauge
pointer accordingly about every 86 milliseconds. The
gauge needle will continue to be positioned at the
actual engine speed position on the gauge scale until
the ignition switch is turned to the Off position.
²Communication Error- If the cluster fails to
receive an engine speed message, it will hold the
gauge needle at the last indication for about six sec-
onds, or until the ignition switch is turned to the Off
position, whichever occurs first. If a new engine
speed message is not received after about six sec-
onds, the gauge needle will return to the far left
(low) end of the scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the gauge needle will be
swept across the entire gauge scale and back in order
to confirm the functionality of the gauge and the
cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the crankshaft posi-
tion sensor to determine the engine speed, then
sends the proper engine speed messages to the
instrument cluster. For further diagnosis of the
tachometer or the instrument cluster circuitry that
controls the gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IN-
STRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING). For proper diagnosis of the crankshaft position
sensor, the PCM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic
message inputs to the instrument cluster that control
the tachometer, a DRBIIItscan tool is required.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
TRANS TEMP INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A transmission over-temperature indicator is stan-
dard equipment on all gasoline engine instrument
clusters. The transmission over-temperature indica-
tor is located near the lower right corner of theinstrument cluster, to the right of the speedometer.
The transmission over-temperature indicator consists
of the words ªTRANS OVER TEMPº imprinted on an
amber lens. The lens is located behind a cutout in
the opaque layer of the instrument cluster overlay.
The dark outer layer of the overlay prevents the indi-
cator from being clearly visible when it is not illumi-
nated. The words ªTRANS OVER TEMPº appear
silhouetted against an amber field through the trans-
lucent outer layer of the overlay when the indicator
is illuminated from behind by a replaceable incandes-
cent bulb and bulb holder unit located on the instru-
ment cluster electronic circuit board. The
transmission over-temperature indicator lens is ser-
viced as a unit with the instrument cluster lens, hood
and mask unit.
OPERATION
The transmission over-temperature indicator gives
an indication to the vehicle operator when the trans-
mission fluid temperature is excessive, which may
lead to accelerated transmission component wear or
failure. This indicator is controlled by a transistor on
the instrument cluster electronic circuit board based
upon cluster programming and electronic messages
received by the cluster over the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus. These mes-
sages are sent by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) or by the Transmission Control Module
(TCM), depending on the model of the automatic
transmission. The transmission over-temperature
indicator bulb is completely controlled by the instru-
ment cluster logic circuit, and that logic will only
allow this indicator to operate when the instrument
cluster receives a battery current input on the fused
ignition switch output (run-start) circuit. Therefore,
the indicator will always be off when the ignition
switch is in any position except On or Start. The bulb
only illuminates when it is provided a path to ground
by the instrument cluster transistor. The instrument
cluster will turn on the transmission over-tempera-
ture indicator for the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the transmission over-tem-
perature indicator is illuminated for about three sec-
onds as a bulb test.
²Trans Over-Temp Indicator Lamp-On Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives a trans over-
temp indicator lamp-on message from the PCM or
TCM indicating that the transmission fluid tempera-
ture is 135É C (275É F) or higher, the transmission
over-temperature indicator will be illuminated. The
indicator remains illuminated until the cluster
receives a trans over-temp indicator lamp-off mes-
sage from the PCM or TCM, or until the ignition
8J - 32 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERWJ
TACHOMETER (Continued)

switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs
first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the transmission over-tem-
perature indicator will be turned on for the duration
of the test to confirm the functionality of the bulb
and the cluster control circuitry.
The PCM or TCM continually monitors the trans-
mission temperature sensor to determine the trans-
mission operating condition. The PCM or TCM then
sends the proper trans over-temp indicator lamp-on
or lamp-off messages to the instrument cluster. If the
transmission over-temperature indicator fails to light
during the bulb test, replace the bulb with a known
good unit. If the instrument cluster turns on the
transmission over-temperature indicator due to a
high transmission oil temperature condition, it may
indicate that the transmission or the transmission
cooling system are being overloaded or that they
require service. For further diagnosis of the trans-
mission over-temperature indicator or the instrument
cluster circuitry that controls the indicator, (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAG-
NOSIS AND TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the
transmission temperature sensor, the PCM, the
TCM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic message
inputs to the instrument cluster that control the
transmission over-temperature indicator, a DRBIIIt
scan tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.
TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
Two turn signal indicators, one right and one left,
are standard equipment on all instrument clusters.
The turn signal indicators are located near the upper
edge of the instrument cluster, the left one is left of
the tachometer, and the right one is right of the
speedometer. Each turn signal indicator consists of
an International Control and Display Symbol icon for
ªTurn Warningº imprinted on a green lens. Each lens
is located behind a dedicated cutout in the opaque
layer of the instrument cluster overlay. The dark
outer layer of the overlay prevents these icons from
being clearly visible when they are not illuminated.
The icons appear silhouetted against a green field
through the translucent outer layer of the overlay
when the indicator is illuminated from behind by a
replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb holder unit
located on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board. The turn signal indicator lenses are serviced
as a unit with the instrument cluster lens, hood and
mask unit.
OPERATION
The turn signal indicators give an indication to the
vehicle operator that the turn signal (left or right
indicator flashing) or hazard warning (both left and
right indicators flashing) have been selected and are
operating. These indicators are controlled by two
individual hard wired inputs from the combination
flasher circuitry to the instrument cluster electronic
circuit board. Each turn signal indicator bulb is
grounded on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board at all times; therefore, these indicators remain
functional regardless of the ignition switch position.
Each indicator bulb will only illuminate when it is
provided with battery current by the combination
flasher in the Junction Block (JB).
The turn signal indicators are connected in parallel
with the other turn signal circuits. This arrangement
allows the turn signal indicators to remain func-
tional, regardless of the condition of the other cir-
cuits in the turn signal and hazard warning systems.
The combination flasher outputs to the instrument
cluster turn signal indicator inputs can be diagnosed
using conventional diagnostic tools and methods. For
more information on the turn signal and hazard
warning system, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/
LIGHTING - EXTERIOR - OPERATION - TURN
SIGNAL & HAZARD WARNING SYSTEM).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TURN SIGNAL
INDICATOR
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
turn signal indicator condition. If the problem being
diagnosed is related to inoperative turn signal or
hazard warning lamps, be certain to repair the turn
signal and hazard warning system before attempting
to diagnose or repair the turn signal indicators.
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING -
EXTERIOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TURN
SIGNAL & HAZARD WARNING SYSTEM). If no
turn signal and hazard warning system problem is
found, the following procedure will help locate an
open in the turn signal indicator circuit. Refer to the
appropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, details of wire harness
routing and retention, connector pin-out information
and location views for the various wire harness con-
nectors, splices and grounds.
WJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 33
TRANS TEMP INDICATOR (Continued)

DIAGNOSTIC JUNCTION PORT - BLACK 16 WAY
CAV CIRCUIT FUNCTION
1 D25 20YL/VT/BR PCI BUS (PCM/ECM TCM PDM CD SKIM)
2 D25 20YL/VT/DG (AZC) PCI BUS (AZC)
3 D25 20YL/VT/DB PCI BUS (RADIO)
4 D25 20YL/VT/OR PCI BUS (ACM)
5 D25 20YL/VT/RD PCI BUS (MIC)
6 D25 20YL/VT/WT PCI BUS (BCM)
7 D25 20YL/VT PCI BUS (DLC)
8 D25 20YL/VT/GY PCI BUS (DDM ABS MEM EVIC APM ITM RAIN
SENSOR)
9- -
10 - -
11 D25 20YL/VT (DIESEL) PCI BUS (SHIFTER ASSEMBLY)
12 - -
13 - -
14 - -
15 - -
16 - -
DRIVER AIRBAG SQUIB 1 - BLACK 2 WAY
CAV CIRCUIT FUNCTION
1 R43 20BK DRIVER SQUIB 1 LINE 1
2 R45 20BK DRIVER SQUIB 1 LINE 2
DRIVER AIRBAG SQUIB 2 - GREEN 2 WAY
CAV CIRCUIT FUNCTION
1 R63 20TN/LB DRIVER SQUIB 2 LINE 2
2 R61 20OR/LB DRIVER SQUIB 2 LINE 1
8W - 80 - 66 8W-80 CONNECTOR PIN-OUTWJ

INSTALLATION........................253
OUTPUT SPEED SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................254
OPERATION..........................254
REMOVAL............................254
INSTALLATION........................254
OVERDRIVE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION........................254
OPERATION..........................254
PARK LOCK CABLE
REMOVAL............................255
INSTALLATION........................255
PISTONS
DESCRIPTION........................256
OPERATION..........................256
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN
DESCRIPTION........................258
OPERATION..........................260
DISASSEMBLY........................260
CLEANING...........................260
INSPECTION.........................260
ASSEMBLY...........................261
SHIFT MECHANISM
DESCRIPTION........................261
OPERATION..........................261
REMOVAL............................261
INSTALLATION........................263
SOLENOID SWITCH VALVE
DESCRIPTION........................263
OPERATION..........................263
SOLENOIDS
DESCRIPTION........................263OPERATION..........................264
TORQUE CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION........................264
OPERATION..........................268
REMOVAL............................269
INSTALLATION........................269
TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
DESCRIPTION........................270
OPERATION..........................270
TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................270
OPERATION..........................270
TRANSMISSION SOLENOID/TRS ASSEMBLY
DESCRIPTION........................271
OPERATION..........................271
REMOVAL............................272
INSTALLATION........................272
TRANSMISSION TEMPERATURE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................272
OPERATION..........................272
VALVE BODY
DESCRIPTION........................273
OPERATION..........................273
REMOVAL............................274
DISASSEMBLY........................275
CLEANING...........................277
INSPECTION.........................277
ASSEMBLY...........................278
INSTALLATION........................279
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION -
545RFE
DESCRIPTION
The 545RFE automatic transmission is a sophisti-
cated, multi-range, electronically controlled transmis-
sion which combines optimized gear ratios for
responsive performance, state of the art efficiency
features and low NVH. Other features include driver
adaptive shifting and three planetary gear sets to
provide wide ratio capability with precise ratio steps
for optimum driveability. The three planetary gear
sets also make available a unique alternate second
gear ratio. The primary 2nd gear ratio fits between
1st and 3rd gears for normal through-gear accelera-
tions. The alternate second gear ratio (2prime) allows
smoother 4-2 kickdowns at high speeds to provide
2nd gear passing performance over a wider highway
cruising range. An additional overdrive ratio (0.67:1)
is also provided for greater fuel economy and less
NVH at highway speeds.The hydraulic portion of the transmission consists
of the transmission fluid, fluid passages, hydraulic
valves, and various line pressure control components.
The primary mechanical components of the trans-
mission consist of the following:
²Three multiple disc input clutches
²Three multiple disc holding clutches
²Five hydraulic accumulators
²Three planetary gear sets
²Dual Stage Hydraulic oil pump
²Valve body
²Solenoid pack
The TCM is the ªheartº or ªbrainº of the electronic
control system and relies on information from vari-
ous direct and indirect inputs (sensors, switches, etc.)
to determine driver demand and vehicle operating
conditions. With this information, the TCM can cal-
culate and perform timely and quality shifts through
various output or control devices (solenoid pack,
transmission control relay, etc.).
21 - 178 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ

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)

(23) Install the reverse clutch pack into the input
clutch retainer (Fig. 77).
(24) Install the reverse reaction plate into the
input clutch retainer.
(25) Install the reverse reaction plate selective
snap-ring into the input clutch retainer.
(26) Mount a dial indicator to the assembly, push
down on the clutch discs, pull up on the reaction
plate to ensure the plate is properly seated and zero
the indicator against the reverse clutch discs (Fig.
81). Apply 20 psi of air pressure to the reverse clutch
and record the dial indicator reading. Measure and
record Reverse clutch pack measurement in four (4)
places, 90É apart. Take average of four measurements
and compare with Reverse clutch pack clearance
specification. The correct clutch clearance is 0.58-1.47
mm (0.023-0.058 in.). Adjust as necessary. Install the
chosen snap-ring and re-measure to verify selection.
(27) Remove the reverse clutch pack from the
input clutch retainer.
(28) Install the number 2 bearing onto the under-
drive hub with outer race against the hub with petro-
leum jelly.
(29) Install the underdrive hub into the input
clutch retainer.
(30) Install the number 3 bearing into the over-
drive hub with the outer race against the hub with
petroleum jelly.
(31) Install the overdrive hub into the input clutch
retainer.
(32) Install the number 4 bearing into the reverse
hub with outer race against the hub with petroleum
jelly.(33) Install the reverse hub into the input clutch
retainer.
(34) Install the complete reverse clutch pack.
(35) Install the reverse reaction plate and snap-
ring.
(36) Push up on reaction plate to allow reverse
clutch to move freely.
INPUT SPEED SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Input and Output Speed Sensors are two-wire
magnetic pickup devices that generate AC signals as
rotation occurs. They are mounted in the left side of
the transmission case and are considered primary
inputs to the Transmission Control Module (TCM).
OPERATION
The Input Speed Sensor provides information on
how fast the input shaft is rotating. As the teeth of
the input clutch hub pass by the sensor coil, an AC
voltage is generated and sent to the TCM. The TCM
interprets this information as input shaft rpm.
The Output Speed Sensor generates an AC signal
in a similar fashion, though its coil is excited by rota-
tion of the rear planetary carrier lugs. The TCM
interprets this information as output shaft rpm.
The TCM compares the input and output speed
signals to determine the following:
²Transmission gear ratio
²Speed ratio error detection
²CVI calculation
The TCM also compares the input speed signal and
the engine speed signal to determine the following:
²Torque converter clutch slippage
²Torque converter element speed ratio
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Place a suitable fluid catch pan under the
transmission.
(3) Remove the wiring connector from the input
speed sensor (Fig. 82).
(4) Remove the bolt holding the input speed sensor
to the transmission case.
(5) Remove the input speed sensor from the trans-
mission case.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the input speed sensor into the trans-
mission case.
(2) Install the bolt to hold the input speed sensor
into the transmission case. Tighten the bolt to 11.9
N´m (105 in.lbs.).
Fig. 81 Measuring Reverse Clutch Clearance
1 - TOOL C-3339
2 - REVERSE CLUTCH PACK
21 - 244 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - 545RFEWJ
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY (Continued)