16. Remove the starter motor.
17. Remove the engine to transmission collar.
18. Rotate crankshaft in clockwise direction until con-
verter bolts are accessible. Then remove bolts
one at a time. Rotate crankshaft with socket
wrench on dampener bolt.
19. Disconnect the transmission vent hose from the
transmission.
20. Remove transfer case. (Refer to 21 - TRANSMIS-
SION/TRANSFER CASE - REMOVAL)
21. Support rear of engine with safety stand or jack.
22. Raise transmission slightly with service jack to
relieve load on crossmember and supports.
23. Remove bolts securing rear support and cushion
to transmission and crossmember.
24. Remove bolts attaching crossmember to frame
and remove crossmember.
25. Disconnect transmission fluid cooler lines (1) at
transmission fittings (3) and clips (2).
26. Remove all remaining converter housing bolts.
27. Carefully work transmission and torque converter
assembly rearward off engine block dowels.
28. Hold torque converter in place during transmission
removal.
29. Lower transmission and remove assembly from
under the vehicle.
30. To remove torque converter, carefully slide torque
converter out of the transmission.
DISASSEMBLY
NOTE: If the transmission is being reconditioned (clutch/seal replacement) or replaced, it is necessary to
perform the Quick Learn Procedure using the scan tool (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL
MODULES/TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
NOTE: Tag all clutch pack assemblies, as they are removed, for reassembly identification.
CAUTION: Do not intermix clutch discs or plates as the unit might then fail.
Before disassembling transmission, move the shift lever clockwise as faras it will go and then remove the shift
lever.
69. Install the bolts that hold the adapter or extension
housing onto the transmission case. Be sure to
install any stud bolts to their original locations.
Tighten the bolts to 54 Nꞏm (40 ft.lbs.).
INSTALLATION
NOTE: 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. Thehub must be smooth to avoid
damaging pump seal at installation.
1. 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 transmission.
2. Lubricate oil pump seal lip with transmission fluid.
3. Align converter and oil pump.
4. Carefully insert converter in oil pump. Then rotate
converter back and forth until fully seated in pump
gears.
5. Check converter seating with steel scale (1) and
straightedge (2). Surface of converter lugs should
be at least 13mm (1/2 in.) to rear of straightedge
when converter is fully seated.
6. Temporarily secure converter with C-clamp.
7. Position transmission on jack and secure it with chains.
8. Check condition of converter driveplate. Replace the plate if cracked,distorted or damaged.Also be sure trans-
mission dowel pins are seated in engine block and protrude far enough to holdtransmissioninalign-
ment.
9. Apply a light coating of Mopar
High Temp Grease to the torque converter hub pocket in the rear pocket of the
engine’s crankshaft.
10. Raise transmission and align the torque converter with the drive plateand transmission converter housing with
the engine block.
11. Move transmission forward. Then raise, lower or tilt transmission to align the converter housing with engine
block dowels.
12. Carefully work transmission forward and over engine block dowels until converter hub is seated in crankshaft.
Verify that no wires, or the transmission vent hose, have become trapped between the engine block and the
transmission.
13. Install two bolts to attach the transmission to the engine.
14. Install remaining torque converter housing to engine bolts. Tighten to 68 Nꞏm (50 ft.lbs.).
15. Install transfer case, if equipped. Tighten transfer case nuts to 35 Nꞏm (26 ft.lbs.).
16. Install rear transmission crossmember. Tighten crossmember to framebolts to 68 Nꞏm (50 ft.lbs.).
17. Install rear support to transmission. Tighten bolts to 47 Nꞏm (35 ft.lbs.).
18. Lower transmission onto crossmember and install bolts attaching transmission mount to crossmember. Tighten
clevis bracket to crossmember bolts to 47 Nꞏm (35 ft.lbs.). Tighten the clevis bracket to rear support bolt to 68
Nꞏm (50 ft.lbs.).
19. Connect gearshift cable (1) to support bracket (2)
and transmission manual lever (3).
20. Connect the input (1) and output (2) speed sensor
and the transmission range sensor (5).
21. Connect the variable line pressure connector (4),
if equipped.
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Description Nꞏm Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Bolt, Torque Converter Housing to Engine 68 50 -
Bolt, Converter-to-Driveplate 88 65 -
Bolt, Fluid Filter-to-Valve Body 5 - 45
Bolt, L/R Piston Retainer-to-Case 5 - 45
Bolt, Adapter/Extension Housing 54 40 -
Bolt, Manual Valve Lever-to-Manual Valve 5 - 45
Bolt, Oil Pan-to-Case 20 14.5 -
Bolt, Oil Pump-to-Case 30 - 265
Bolt, Park Sprag Retainer 4.5 - 40
Bolt, Reaction Shaft Support Halves 28 - 250
Bolt, Solenoid/Pressure Switch Assembly-to-
Valve Body5.5 - 50
Bolt, Valve Body-to-Case 12 - 105
Bolt, Valve Body-to-Transfer Plate 5 - 45
Fitting, Cooler Line 47.5 35 -
Nut, Output Shaft 271 200 -
Plug, Pressure Tap 5 - 45
Bolt, Input Speed-to-Case Sensor 9 - 80
Bolt, Output Speed-to-Case Sensor 9 - 80
Nut, Transfer Case 47 35 -
Bolt, Crossmember to Frame 68 50 -
Bolt, Rear Support to Transmission 47 35 -
Bolt, Clevis Bracket to Crossmember 47 35 -
Bolt, Clevis Bracket to Transmission 68 50 -
Screw, TRS/Manual Shaft Retaining 5 - 45
Screw, 2/4 Accumulator Retainer Plate 5 - 45
ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE
1. Remove the steering column trim as necessary for
access to the brake transmission shift interlock.
2. Shift the transmission into the PARK position.
3. Pull upward on both the BTSI lock tab (4) and the
gearshift cable lock tab (3).
4. Verify that the shift lever is in the PARK position.
5. Verify positive engagement of the transmission
park lock by attempting to rotate the propeller
shaft. The shaft will not rotate when the park lock is
engaged.
6. Turn ignition switch to LOCK position.Be sure
ignition key cylinder is in the LOCK position.
Cable will not adjust correctly in any other
position.
7. Ensure that the cable is free to self-adjust by push-
ing cable rearward and releasing.
8. Push the gearshift cable lock tab (3) down until it snaps in place.
9. Locate the BTSI alignment hole in the bottom of the BTSI mechanism betweentheBTSIlocktabandtheBTSI
connector.
10. Move the BTSI assembly up or down on the gearshift cable until an appropriate size drill bit can be inserted into
the alignment hole and through the assembly.
11. Push the BTSI lock tab (4) down until it snaps into place and remove the drill bit.
12. Install any steering column trim previously removed.
BTSI FUNCTION CHECK
1. Verify removal of ignition key allowed in PARK position only.
2. When the shift lever is in PARK, the ignition key cylinder should rotate freely from off to lock. When the shifter
is in any other position, the ignition key should not rotate from off to lock.
3. Shifting out of PARK should be possible when the ignition key cylinder isin the off position.
4. Shifting out of PARK should not be possible while applying normal force,and ignition key cylinder is in the run
or start positions, unless the foot brake pedal is depressed approximately1/2inch(12mm).
5. Shifting out of PARK should not be possible when the ignition key cylinder is in the accessory or lock position.
6. Shifting between any gear and NEUTRAL, or PARK, may be done without depressing foot brake with ignition
switch in run or start positions.
7. Engine starts must be possible with shifter lever in PARK or NEUTRAL positions only. Engine starts must not be
possible in any position other than PARK or NEUTRAL.
8. With shifter lever in the:
PARK position - Apply upward force on the shift arm and remove pressure. Enginestartsmustbepossible.
PARK position - Apply downward force on the shift arm and remove pressure. Engine starts must be possible.
NEUTRAL position - Normal position. Engine starts must be possible.
NEUTRAL position - Engine running and brakes applied, apply upward force on the shift arm. Transmission
shall not be able to shift from neutral to reverse.
FLUID AND FILTER
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating which has two primary causes.
1. A result of restricted fluid flow through the main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usually the result of a
faulty or improperly installed drainback valve, a damaged oil cooler, or severe restrictions in the coolers and lines
caused by debris or kinked lines.
2. Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not properly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer towing or similar high
load operation will overheat the transmission fluid if the vehicle is improperly equipped. Such vehicles should
have an auxiliary transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling system,and the engine/axle ratio combination
needed to handle heavy loads.
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
Alowfluidlevelallowsthepumptotakeinairalongwiththefluid.Airinthe fluid will cause fluid pressures to be
low and develop slower than normal. If the transmission is overfilled, thegears churn the fluid into foam. This aer-
ates the fluid and causing the same conditions occurring with a low level. In either case, air bubbles cause fluid
overheating, oxidation, and varnish buildup which interferes with valveand clutch operation. Foaming also causes
fluid expansion which can result in fluid overflow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid overflow can easily be
mistaken for a leak if inspection is not careful.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a result of:
adding incorrect fluid
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when checking level
engine coolant entering the fluid
internal failure that generates debris
overheat that generates sludge (fluid breakdown)
failure to replace contaminated converter after repair
The use of non-recommended fluids can result in transmission failure. Theusual results are erratic shifts, slippage,
abnormal wear and eventual failure due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid this condition by using rec-
ommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and other foreign mate-
rial on the cap and tube could fall into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the time to wipe the cap and tube
clean before withdrawing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is generally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy is to replace
the radiator as the cooler in the radiator is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated through the transmission,
an overhaul is necessary.
The torque converter should also be replaced whenever a failure generatessludge and debris. This is necessary
because normal converter flushing procedures will not remove all contaminants.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The transmission sump has a dipstick to check oil similar to most automatictransmissions. 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 PARK and NEUTRAL positions. Place the selector lever in 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 (approximately 82° C or 180° F), the fluidlevel is
correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil level indicator. The fluid level should be in COLD
region at 21° C (70° F) fluid temperature. Adjust fluid level as necessary.Use only Mopar
ATF+4, Automatic Trans-
mission Fluid.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK USING SCAN TOOL
NOTE: Engine and Transmission should be at normal operating temperature before performing this proce-
dure.
1. Start engine and apply parking brake.
2. Connect scan tool and select transmission.
3. Select sensors.
4. Read the transmission temperature value.
5. Compare the fluid temperature value with the chart.
6. Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the dipstick according to the 42RLE Fluid Temperature Chart. Use only
Mopar
ATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid.
7. Check transmission for leaks.
FLUID/FILTER SERVICE
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparATF+4, Automatic Transmission Fluid, should be used in the
transmission sump. 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 transmission is disassembled for any reason, the fluid and filter should be changed.
1. Raise vehicle on a hoist. Place a drain container with a large opening, under transmission oil pan.
42RLE Fluid Temperature Chart
NOTE: One of the oil pan bolts (5) has a sealing
patch applied from the factory. Separate this bolt
for reuse.
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 and tighten retaining screws to 5 Nꞏm (45 in.
lbs.).
NOTE: Before installing the oil pan bolt (5) in the
bolt hole located between the torque converter
clutch on and U/D clutch pressure tap circuits, it
will be necessary to replentish the sealing patch
on the bolt using Mopar
Lock & Seal Adhesive.
4. Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan using
new Mopar
Silicone Adhesive sealant. Tighten oil
pan bolts to 20 Nꞏm (14.5 ft. lbs.).
5. Pour four quarts of Mopar
AT F + 4 , A u t o m a t i c
Transmission Fluid, through the dipstick opening.
6. Start engine and allow to idle for at least one minute. Then, with parkingand service brakes applied, move selec-
tor lever momentarily to each position, ending in the park or neutral position.
7. Check the transmission fluid level and add an appropriate amount to bring the transmission fluid level to 3mm
(1/8 in.) below the lowest mark on the dipstick.
8. Recheck the fluid level after the transmission has reached normal operating temperature, 82° C (180°F).
9. To prevent dirt from entering transmission, make certain that dipstickis fully seated into the dipstick opening.
TRANSMISSION FILL
To avoid overfilling transmission after a fluid change or overhaul, perform the following procedure:
1. Remove dipstick and insert clean funnel in transmission fill tube.
2. Add following initial quantity of Mopar
ATF+4totransmission:
a. If only fluid and filter were changed, add3 pints (1-1/2 quarts)of ATF +4 to transmission.
b. If transmission was completely overhauled, torque converter was replaced or drained, and cooler was
flushed, add12 pints (6 quarts)of ATF +4 to transmission.
3. Apply parking brakes.
4. Start and run engine at normal curb idle speed.
5. Apply service brakes, shift transmission through all gear ranges then back to NEUTRAL, set parking brake, and
leave engine running at curb idle speed.
6. Remove funnel, insert dipstick andcheck fluid level. If level is low,add fluid to bring level to MIN mark on
dipstick.Check to see if the oil level is equal on both sides of the dipstick. If one side is noticably higher than
the other, the dipstick has picked up some oil from the dipstick tube. Allowthe oil to drain down the dipstick tube
and re-check.
7. Drive vehicle until transmission fluid is at normal operating temperature.
8. With the engine running at curb idle speed, the gear selector in NEUTRAL,and the parking brake applied, check
the transmission fluid level.
CAUTION: Do not overfill transmission, fluid foaming and shifting problems can result.
9. Add fluid to bring level up to MAX arrow mark.
When fluid level is correct, shut engine off, release park brake, remove funnel, and install dipstick in fill tube.