Automatic Transmission/Transaxle: Service and Repair

1. Disconnect ground cable from battery and kickdown cable from throttle lever and brackets.
2. Raise and support vehicle and drain transmission.
3. Remove dipstick and filler tube, disconnect oil cooler lines from transmission, then plug lines and open fittings.
4. Remove flywheel shield/reinforcement plate, then the torque converter bolts.
5. Remove speed and reference transmitters noting the following:
a. Mark installation position, remove retaining bolts, then withdraw sensors from flywheel housing.

Fig. 6 Typical speed and reference transmitter installation:

b. During installation, ensure that speed transmitter with black plug (1) faces flywheel ring gear and that reference transmitter (2) with gray identification ring (3) faces flywheel reference pin (4), Fig. 6.
c. Replace O-rings as needed and coat transmitters with suitable anti-seize compound prior to installation. Ensure that transmitters are clean and free from oil. If transmitters are not clean and properly positioned, engine will not start and run properly.
6. Disconnect electrical connector to oxygen sensor and remove sensor.
7. Disconnect exhaust pipes from manifold and disconnect hangers and clamps, as needed, and remove exhaust system as an assembly.
8. Remove exhaust hanger bracket and heat shield.
9. Support transmission with suitable jack, then remove crossmember and the shift selector rod.
10. Remove bolts securing propeller shaft to transmission flange and center bearing bolts, then disconnect propeller shaft and position aside. During installation, ensure that propeller shaft is properly centered, preload center bearing .079 to .157 inch toward front of vehicle before tightening mounting bolts and use new nuts to secure propeller shaft to mounting flange.
11. Lower transmission until engine rests on crossmember, then remove bolts securing transmission to engine.
12. Separate transmission from engine ensuring that torque converter remains seated in transmission, then remove transmission assembly.
13. Reverse procedure to install.