2005 CHRYSLER CARAVAN automatic transmission

CAUTION: Do not damage the transaxle case and/or
differential retainer sealing surface.
(9) Using the end play measurement that was
determined, add 0.18mm (0.007 inch). This should
give you between 5-18 inch pounds of bearing pre-
load. Refer to the Differential Bearing Shim Chart to
determine which shim to use.
(10) Remove the differential bearing retainer.
Remove the bearing cup.
(11) Install the oil baffle. Install the proper shim
combination under the bearing cup.
(12) Install the differential bearing retainer. Seal
the retainer to the housing with MopartSilicone
Rubber Adhesive Sealant. Torque bolts to 28 N´m
(250 in. lbs.).
(13) Using Miller Special Tool L-4436-A and an
inch-pound torque wrench, check the turning torque
of the differential (Fig. 204). The turning torque
should be between 5-18 inch-pounds.
NOTE: If turning torque is too high install a 0.05mm
(0.002 inch) thicker shim. If the turning torque is too
low, install a 0.05mm (0.002 inch) thinner shim.
Repeat until 5-18 inch-pounds of turning torque is
obtained.
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK
NOTE: Only transmission fluid of the type labeled
Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
should be used in this transaxle.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The transmission sump has a fluid level indicator
(dipstick) to check oil similar to most automatic
transmissions. It is located on the left side of the
engine. Be sure to wipe all dirt from dipstick handle
before removing.
The torque converter fills in both the P Park and N
Neutral positions. Place the selector lever in P Park
to be sure that the fluid level check is accurate.The
engine should be running at idle speed for at
least one minute, with the vehicle on level
ground.At normal operating temperature 82É C
(180É F), the fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT
region on the oil level indicator (Fig. 205). The fluid
level should be within the COLD region of the dip-
stick at 27É C (80É F) fluid temperature.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK USING DRB
NOTE: Engine and Transaxle should be at normal
operating temperature before performing this proce-
dure.
(1) Start engine and apply parking brake.
(2) Hook up DRB scan tool and select transmis-
sion.
(3) Select sensors.
(4) Read the transmission temperature value.
(5) Compare the fluid temperature value with the
fluid temperature chart (Fig. 206).
(6) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
indicator according to the chart.
(7) Check transmission for leaks.
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 transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
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 transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
FLUID CONDITION
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
and is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle recondition is proba-
bly required. Be sure to examine the fluid on the dip-
Fig. 205 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
21 - 230 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FINAL DRIVE (Continued)

stick closely. If there is any doubt about its condition,
drain out a sample for a double check.
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed red so it
can be identified from other fluids used in the vehicle
such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red color is not
permanent and is not an indicator of fluid condition.
As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin to look
darker in color and may eventually become brown.
This is normal.ATF+4 also has a unique odor that
may change with age. Consequently,odor and color
cannot be used to indicate the fluid condition
or the need for a fluid change.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.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.
Fig. 206 Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart
1 - MAX. LEVEL2 - MIN. LEVEL
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 231
FLUID (Continued)

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. 207).
(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. 208).
(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.
(6) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) through the dipstick opening.
(7) 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.
(8) 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. 208).
(9) Recheck the fluid level after the transaxle has
reached normal operating temperature (180ÉF.).
(Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTO-
MATIC - 41TE/FLUID - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(10) To prevent dirt from entering transaxle, make
certain that dipstick is fully seated into the dipstick
opening.
Fig. 207 Filter and O-Ring
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
Fig. 208 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
21 - 232 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FLUID (Continued)

(38) Install the underdrive shaft assembly (Fig.
274).
(39) Install the #3 thrust washer to the underdrive
shaft assembly. Be sure five tabs are seated properly
(Fig. 275).(40) Install the #3 thrust plate to the bottom of the
overdrive shaft assembly. Retain with petrolatum or
transmission assembly gel (Fig. 276).
(41) Install the overdrive shaft assembly (Fig. 277)
(Fig. 278).
(42) Reinstall overdrive and reverse clutch as
shown.Rechecking these clutch clearances is
not necessary.
Fig. 274 Install Underdrive Shaft Assembly
1 - UNDERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
2 - #2 NEEDLE BEARING
Fig. 275 Install No. 3 Thrust Washer
1 - #3 THRUST WASHER (NOTE 5 TABS)
2 - UNDERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
Fig. 276 Install No. 3 Thrust Plate
1 - OVERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
2 - DABS OF PETROLATUM (FOR RETENTION)
3 - #3 THRUST PLATE (NOTE 3 TABS)
Fig. 277 Install Overdrive Shaft Assembly
1 - OVERDRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY
2 - #3 THRUST PLATE
3 - #3 THRUST WASHER
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 259
INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY (Continued)

(8) Position an appropriate piece of Plastigage
across both pump gears.
(9) Align the Plastigage to a flat area on the reac-
tion shaft support housing.
(10) Install the reaction shaft to the pump housing
(Fig. 280). Tighten the bolts to 27 N´m (20 ft. lbs.).
(11) Remove bolts and carefully separate the hous-
ings. Measure the Plastigage following the instruc-
tions supplied.
(12) Clearance between both gear end faces and
the reaction shaft support should be 0.020-0.046 mm
(0.0008-0.0018 in.).
ASSEMBLY
(1) Assemble oil pump as shown in (Fig. 286).
(2) Install and torque reaction shaft support-to-oil
pump housing bolts to 28 N´m (20 ft. lbs.) torque
(Fig. 287).
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN
DESCRIPTION
The planetary geartrain is located between the
input clutch assembly and the rear of the transaxle
case. The planetary geartrain consists of two sun
gears, two planetary carriers, two annulus (ring)
gears, and one output shaft (Fig. 288).
OPERATION
The planetary geartrain utilizes two planetary gear
sets that connect the transmission input shaft to the
output shaft. Input and holding clutches drive or lock
different planetary members to change output ratio
or direction.
Fig. 286 Oil Pump Assembly
1 - PUMP BODY
2 - OUTER GEAR
3 - INNER GEAR
4 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
5 - SEAL RINGS (4)
6 - REACTION SHAFT
7 - CRESCENT
Fig. 287 Reaction Support-to-Pump Body Bolts
1 - BOLT (6)
2 - PUMP BODY
3 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
Fig. 288 Planetary Geartrain
1 - FRONT SUN GEAR ASSEMBLY
2 - #6 THRUST BEARING
3 - #7 THRUST BEARING
4 - REAR CARRIER/FRONT ANNULUS ASSEMBLY
5 - REAR SUN GEAR
6 - FRONT CARRIER/REAR ANNULUS ASSEMBLY
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 263
OIL PUMP (Continued)

SEAL - OIL PUMP
REMOVAL
(1) Remove transaxle from vehicle (Refer to 21 -
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 41TE
- REMOVAL).
(2) Using Tool C-3981-B, remove oil pump seal
(Fig. 289).
INSTALLATION
(1) Using Tool C-4193, install oil pump seal (Fig.
290).
(2) Install transaxle to vehicle (Refer to 21 -
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 41TE
- INSTALLATION).
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID
DESCRIPTION
The Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock system
consists of an electro-magnetic solenoid mounted to
the steering column (Fig. 291). The solenoid's plunger
consists of an integrated hook, which operates the
shift lever pawl (part of shift lever assembly), and a
plunger return spring (Fig. 292). The solenoid also
has an integrated bracket, which facilitates fastening
to the steering column.
Fig. 289 Remove Oil Pump Seal
1 - TOOL C-3981±B
2 - OIL PUMP SEAL
Fig. 290 Install Oil Pump Seal
1 - TOOL C-4193
2 - HANDLE TOOL C-4171
Fig. 291 Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI)
Solenoid Location
1 - BTSI SOLENOID
Fig. 292 Solenoid Plunger and Return Spring
1 - PLUNGER
2 - RETURN SPRING
3 - BTSI SOLENOID
21 - 264 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS

OPERATION
The Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI)
Solenoid prevents the transmission shift lever from
being moved out of PARK (P) unless the brake pedal
is applied. The BTSI solenoid is hardwired to and
controlled by the Intelligent Power Module (IPM).
Battery voltage is applied to one side of the solenoid
with the ignition key is in either the OFF, ON/RUN,
or START positions (Fig. 293). The ground side of the
solenoid is controlled by a driver within the IPM. It
relies on voltage supplied from the stop lamp switch
to the stop lamp sense circuit within the IPM to tell
when the brake pedal is depressed. When the brake
pedal is depressed, the ground circuit opens, de-ener-
gizing the solenoid. When the brake pedal is
released, the ground circuit is closed, energizing the
solenoid.
When the ignition key is in either the OFF,
ON/RUN, or START positions, the BTSI solenoid is
energized, and the solenoid plunger hook pulls the
shift lever pawl into position, prohibiting the shift
lever from moving out of PARK (P) (Fig. 294). When
the brake pedal is depressed, the ground circuit
opens, de-energizing the solenoid. This moves the
gearshift lever pawl out of the way (Fig. 295), allow-
ing the shift lever to be moved into any gear position.
Fig. 293 Ignition Key/Switch Positions
1 - ACC
2 - LOCK
3 - OFF
4 - ON/RUN
5-START
Fig. 294 Pawl Engaged to Shift Lever
1 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER
2 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER PAWL
Fig. 295 Pawl Disengaged From Shift Lever
1 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER
2 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER PAWL
RS41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 265
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID (Continued)

A conventional mechanical interlock system is also
used. This system manually prohibits shifter move-
ment when the ignition switch is in the LOCK or
ACC positions. Solenoid operation is not required in
these key positions.
For intended BTSI system operation, refer to the
following chart:
ACTION EXPECTED RESPONSE
1. Turn key to the9OFF9
position.1. Shifter CAN be shifted
out of park with brake
pedal applied.
2. Turn key to the
9ON/RUN9position.2. Shifter CANNOT be
shifted out of park.
3. Turn key to the
9ON/RUN9position and
depress the brake pedal.3. Shifter CAN be shifted
out of park.
4. Leave shifter in any
gear and try to return key
to the9LOCK9or9ACC9
position.4. Key cannot be
returned to the9LOCK9or
9ACC9position.
5. Return shifter to
9PARK9and try to remove
the key.5. Key can be removed
(after returning to9LOCK9
position).
6. With the key removed,
try to shift out of9PARK9.6. Shifter cannot be
shifted out of9PARK9.
NOTE: Any failure to meet these expected
responses requires system adjustment or repair.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BRAKE/
TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID
For intended BTSI system operation, refer to the
following chart:
ACTION EXPECTED RESPONSE
1. Turn key to the9OFF9
position.1. Shifter CAN be shifted
out of park with brake
pedal applied.
2. Turn key to the
9ON/RUN9position.2. Shifter CANNOT be
shifted out of park.
3. Turn key to the
9ON/RUN9position and
depress the brake pedal.3. Shifter CAN be shifted
out of park.
4. Leave shifter in any
gear and try to return key
to the9LOCK9or9ACC9
position.4. Key cannot be
returned to the9LOCK9or
9ACC9position.
5. Return shifter to
9PARK9and try to remove
the key.5. Key can be removed
(after returning to9LOCK9
position).
ACTION EXPECTED RESPONSE
6. With the key removed,
try to shift out of9PARK9.6. Shifter cannot be
shifted out of9PARK9.
NOTE: Any failure to meet these expected
responses requires system repair. Refer to the
appropriate Diagnostic Information.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect battery negative cable.
(2) Remove instrument panel lower shroud (Fig.
296).
(3) Remove knee bolster (Fig. 297).
Fig. 296 Instrument Panel Lower Silencer
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL LOWER SILENCER
Fig. 297 Knee Bolster
1 - KNEE BOLSTER
21 - 266 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID (Continued)