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. 187). 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. 188).
(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-
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.
Fig. 187 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
21 - 82 40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
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. 189).
(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.
Fig. 188 Transmission Fluid Temperature Chart
1 - MAX. LEVEL2 - MIN. LEVEL
Fig. 189 Filter and O-Ring
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
RS40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21-83
FLUID (Continued)
(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. 190).
(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. 190).
(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.
GEAR SHIFT CABLE
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect battery cables.
(2) Remove battery shield.
(3) Remove battery.
(4) Remove speed control servo and position out of
way.
(5) Disconnect gear shift cable at manual valve
lever (Fig. 191).
(6) Disconnect gear shift cable from upper mount
bracket (Fig. 191).
Fig. 190 Fluid Level Indicator
1 - FLUID LEVEL INDICATOR
Fig. 191 Gearshift Cable at Transaxle - Typical
1 - MANUAL VALVE LEVER
2 - GEAR SHIFT CABLE
3 - UPPER MOUNT BRACKET
21 - 84 40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FLUID (Continued)
(3) Install steering column lower shroud.
(4) Install knee bolster (Fig. 278).
(5) Install instrument panel lower silencer (Fig.
279).
(6) Connect battery negative cable.
(7) Verify proper shift interlock system operation.
(Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTO-
MATIC - 31TH/SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID -
OPERATION)SOLENOID/PRESSURE
SWITCH ASSY
DESCRIPTION
The Solenoid/Pressure Switch Assembly (Fig. 280)
is external to the transaxle and mounted to the
transaxle case. The assembly consists of four sole-
noids that control hydraulic pressure to the LR/CC,
2/4, OD, and UD friction elements. The reverse
clutch is controlled by line pressure from the manual
valve in the valve body. The solenoids are contained
within the Solenoid/Pressure Switch Assembly, and
can only be serviced by replacing the assembly.
The solenoid assembly also contains pressure
switches that monitor and send hydraulic circuit
information to the PCM/TCM. Likewise, the pressure
switches can only be service by replacing the assem-
bly.
Fig. 278 Knee Bolster
1 - KNEE BOLSTER
Fig. 279 Instrument Panel Lower Silencer
1 - INSTRUMENT PANEL LOWER SILENCERFig. 280 Solenoid/Pressure Switch Assembly
1 - SOLENOID AND PRESSURE SWITCH ASSEMBLY
RS40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 117
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID (Continued)
TORQUE CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION
The torque converter (Fig. 297) is a hydraulic
device that couples the engine crankshaft to the
transmission. The torque converter consists of an
outer shell with an internal turbine, a stator, an
overrunning clutch, an impeller and an electronically
applied converter clutch. The converter clutch pro-
vides reduced engine speed and greater fuel economy
when engaged. Clutch engagement also provides
reduced transmission fluid temperatures. The con-
verter clutch engages in third gear. The torque con-
verter hub drives the transmission oil (fluid) pump.
The torque converter is a sealed, welded unit that
is not repairable and is serviced as an assembly.
Fig. 297 Torque Converter Assembly
1 - TURBINE
2 - IMPELLER
3 - HUB
4-STATOR
5 - CONVERTER CLUTCH DISC
6 - DRIVE PLATE
21 - 124 40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
TRANSMISSION CONTROL
RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The transmission control relay (Fig. 306) is located
in the Intelligent Power Module (IPM), which is
located on the left side of the engine compartment
between the battery and left fender.
OPERATION
The relay is supplied fused B+ voltage, energized by
the PCM/TCM, and is used to supply power to the sole-
noid pack when the transmission is in normal operating
mode. When the relay is ªoffº, no power is supplied to
the solenoid pack and the transmission is in ªlimp-inº
mode. After a controller reset (ignition key turned to the
ªrunº position or after cranking engine), the PCM/TCM
energizes the relay. Prior to this, the PCM/TCM verifies
that the contacts are open by checking for no voltage at
the switched battery terminals. After this is verified,
the voltage at the solenoid pack pressure switches is
checked. After the relay is energized, the PCM/TCM
monitors the terminals to verify that the voltage is
greater than 3 volts.
TRANSMISSION RANGE
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) is mounted
to the top of the valve body inside the transaxle andcan only be serviced by removing the valve body. The
electrical connector extends through the transaxle
case (Fig. 307).
The Transmission Range Sensor (TRS) has four
switch contacts that monitor shift lever position and
send the information to the PCM/TCM.
The TRS also has an integrated temperature sen-
sor (thermistor) that communicates transaxle tem-
perature to the TCM and PCM (Fig. 308).
Fig. 306 Transmission Control Relay Location
1 - TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
2 - LEFT FENDER
3 - INTELLIGENT POWER MODULE (IPM)
4 - BATTERY
Fig. 307 Transmission Range Sensor (TRS)
Location
1 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
Fig. 308 Transmission Temperature Sensor
1 - TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
2 - TEMPERATURE SENSOR
21 - 130 40TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE
DESCRIPTION........................147
OPERATION..........................149
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 4XTE
TRANSAXLE GENERAL DIAGNOSIS......149
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ROAD TEST . . 150
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HYDRAULIC
PRESSURE TESTS...................150
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - CLUTCH AIR
PRESSURE TESTS...................153
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TORQUE
CONVERTER HOUSING FLUID LEAKAGE . . 154
REMOVAL............................154
DISASSEMBLY........................157
ASSEMBLY...........................174
INSTALLATION........................196
SCHEMATICS AND DIAGRAMS
4XTE TRANSAXLE HYDRAULIC
SCHEMATICS.......................199
SPECIFICATIONS - 41TE TRANSAXLE......211
SPECIAL TOOLS
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE.........213
ACCUMULATOR
DESCRIPTION........................218
OPERATION..........................218
DRIVING CLUTCHES
DESCRIPTION........................219
OPERATION..........................219
FINAL DRIVE
DESCRIPTION........................219
OPERATION..........................220
DISASSEMBLY........................220
ASSEMBLY...........................224
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT - DIFFERENTIAL BEARING
PRELOAD..........................228
FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION CHECK . . . 230
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND
FILTER SERVICE.....................231
GEAR SHIFT CABLE
REMOVAL............................233
INSTALLATION........................234
ADJUSTMENTS
GEARSHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT.......235
HOLDING CLUTCHES
DESCRIPTION........................236
OPERATION..........................236INPUT CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
DISASSEMBLY........................237
ASSEMBLY...........................246
OIL PUMP
DESCRIPTION........................261
OPERATION..........................261
DISASSEMBLY........................261
ASSEMBLY...........................263
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN
DESCRIPTION........................263
OPERATION..........................263
SEAL - OIL PUMP
REMOVAL............................264
INSTALLATION........................264
SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID
DESCRIPTION........................264
OPERATION..........................265
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BRAKE/
TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
SOLENOID..........................266
REMOVAL............................266
INSTALLATION........................267
SOLENOID/PRESSURE SWITCH ASSY
DESCRIPTION........................268
OPERATION..........................268
REMOVAL............................269
INSTALLATION........................270
SPEED SENSOR - INPUT
DESCRIPTION........................271
OPERATION..........................271
REMOVAL............................272
INSTALLATION........................272
SPEED SENSOR - OUTPUT
DESCRIPTION........................273
OPERATION..........................273
REMOVAL............................274
INSTALLATION........................274
TORQUE CONVERTER
DESCRIPTION........................275
OPERATION..........................278
REMOVAL............................280
INSTALLATION........................280
TRANSMISSION CONTROL RELAY
DESCRIPTION........................281
OPERATION..........................281
TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR
DESCRIPTION........................281
OPERATION..........................282
REMOVAL............................282
INSTALLATION........................282
21 - 146 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
NOTE: The 2/4 Clutch Piston has bonded seals
which are not individually serviceable. Seal replace-
ment requires replacement of the piston assembly.
(27) Remove 2/4 clutch retainer (Fig. 42).
(28) Remove 2/4 clutch return spring (Fig. 43).(29) Remove 2/4 clutch pack (Fig. 44).Tag 2/4
clutch pack for reassembly identification.
(30) Remove tapered snap ring (Fig. 45).
Fig. 42 2/4 Clutch Retainer
1 - 2/4 CLUTCH RETAINER
2 - 2/4 CLUTCH RETURN SPRING
Fig. 43 Remove 2/4 Clutch Return Spring
1 - 2/4 CLUTCH RETURN SPRING
Fig. 44 Remove 2/4 Clutch Pack
1 - CLUTCH PLATE (4)
2 - CLUTCH DISC (4)
Fig. 45 Remove Tapered Snap Ring
1 - LOW/REVERSE CLUTCH REACTION PLATE
2 - SCREWDRIVER
3 - LOW/REVERSE TAPERED SNAP RING (TAPERED SIDE UP)
4 - OIL PAN FACE
5 - LONG TAB
21 - 164 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE (Continued)