Page 3009 of 5267
BEARINGS
ADJUSTMENTS
BEARING ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES
Take extreme care when removing andinstalling bearing cups and cones.Use only an arbor press for installa-
tion,as a hammer may not properly align the bearing cup or cone. Burrs or nicks on the bearing seat will give a
false end play reading, while gauging for proper shims. Improperly seatedbearing cup and cones are subject to
low-mileage failure.
Bearing cups and cones should be replaced if they show signs of pitting or heat distress.
If distress is seen on either the cup or bearing rollers, both cup and cone must be replaced.
NOTE: Bearing drag torque specifications must be maintained to avoid premature bearing failures.
Used (original) bearing may lose up to 50 percent of the original drag torque after break-in.
NOTE: All bearing adjustments must be made with no other component interference or gear inter-mesh.
Oil all bearings before checking turning torque.
Page 3010 of 5267

MECHANISM-BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
DESCRIPTION
The Brake Transmission Shifter Interlock (BTSI), is a
solenoid operated system. It consists of a solenoid
permanently mounted on the gearshift cable.
OPERATION
The system locks the shifter into the PARK position. The interlock system is engaged whenever the ignition switch
is in the LOCK or ACCESSORY position. An additional electrically activated feature will prevent shifting out of the
PARK position unless the brake pedal is depressed approximately one-halfan inch. A magnetic holding device in
line with the park lock cable is energized when the ignition is in the RUN position. When the key is in the RUN
position and the brake pedal is depressed, the shifter is unlocked and willmove into any position. The interlock
system also prevents the ignition switch from being turned to the LOCK or ACCESSORY position, unless the shifter
is fully locked into the PARK position.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
1. Verify that the key can only be removed in the PARK position.
2. When the shift lever is in PARK And the shift handle pushbutton is in the “OUT” position, the ignition key cylinder
should rotate freely from OFF to LOCK. When the shifter is in any other gear or neutral position, the ignition key
cylinder should not rotate to the LOCK position.
3. Shifting out of PARK should not be possible when the ignition key cylinder is in the OFF position.
4. Shifting out of PARK should not be possible while applying normal pushbutton force and ignition key cylinder is
in the RUN or START positions unless the foot brake pedal is depressed approximately 1/2 inch (12mm).
5. Shifting out of PARK should not be possible when the ignition key cylinderisintheACCESSORYorLOCK
positions.
6. Shifting between any gears, NEUTRAL or into PARK may be done without depressing foot brake pedal with
ignition switch in RUN or START positions.
ADJUSTMENTS - BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK
Correct cable adjustment is important to proper interlock operation. Thegearshift cable must be correctly adjusted
in order to shift out of PARK.
Page 3011 of 5267

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.
Page 3012 of 5267

CLUTCHES-DRIVING
DESCRIPTION
Three hydraulically applied input clutches are used to
drive planetary components. The underdrive (2), over-
drive (3), and reverse (4) clutches are considered
input/driving clutches and are contained within the
input clutch assembly. The input clutch assembly also
contains:
Input shaft.
Input hub.
Clutch retainer.
Underdrive piston.
Overdrive/reverse piston.
Overdrive hub.
Underdrive hub.
OPERATION
The three input clutches are responsible for driving different components of the planetary geartrain.
NOTE: (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/AUTOMATIC - 42RLE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING) for a collective view
ofwhichclutchelementsareappliedateachpositionoftheselectorlever.
UNDERDRIVE CLUTCH
The underdrive clutch is hydraulically applied in first, second, and third (direct) gears by pressurized fluid against the
underdrive piston. When the underdrive clutch is applied, the underdrivehub drives the rear sun gear.
OVERDRIVE CLUTCH
The overdrive clutch is hydraulically applied in third (direct) and overdrive gears by pressurized fluid against the
overdrive/reverse piston. When the overdrive clutch is applied, the overdrive hub drives the front planet carrier.
REVERSE CLUTCH
The reverse clutch is hydraulically applied in reverse gear only by pressurized fluid against the overdrive/reverse
piston. When the reverse clutch is applied, the front sun gear assembly is driven.
Page 3013 of 5267
SEAL-EXTENSION HOUSING
REMOVAL
1. Raise vehicle.
2. Mark propeller shaft and axle yoke, or companion
flange, for alignment reference.
3. Disconnect and remove propeller shaft.
4. Remove old seal with a generic seal remover (1)
from overdrive extension housing.
INSTALLATION
1. Place seal in position on overdrive housing.
2. Drive seal into overdrive housing with Seal Installer
C-3995-A (1).
3. Carefully guide propeller shaft slip yoke into hous-
ing and onto output shaft splines. Align marks
made at removal and connect propeller shaft to
rear axle pinion yoke.
Page 3014 of 5267

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.
Page 3015 of 5267

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
Page 3016 of 5267

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.