Service Procedure

SERVICE PROCEDURE


1. Inspect the Transaxle I.D. Plate (see Figure 1). If the Julian Dates are within the range 194 thru 200, inclusive (July 13, 1990 thru July 19, 1990), proceed to Step 2. If the Julian Dates are not within the range 194 thru 200, skip to Step 4 and install a Campaign Identification Label.

2. If the vehicle odometer reads less than 12,000 miles, go to Step 3 and install Kit P/N 8681967 as instructed.

If the vehicle odoineter reads 12,000 miles or more, perform the following test drive:

A. Start vehicle and let idle on a flat surface for three (3) minutes.

B. Verify correct transaxle fluid level and fluid color.


C. Evaluate the vehicle in drive range and verify the following proper vehicle operation conditions:


1-2 upshift at 1/4 throttle, should occur between 12 to 20 m.p.h.
2-3 upshift at 1/4 throttle, should occur between 20 to 35 m.p.h.
Manually select low range and verify 3-2 and 2-1 coastdown shifts.


D. Verify vehicle has correct reverse engagement and no slippage in reverse range.


E. During the test drive, the driver should not feel any slips and/or bumps.


If the vehicle has normal transaxle operation, proceed to Step 3 and install Kit P/N 8681967, as instructed.


If the vehicle does not have normal transaxle operation, replace the transaxle with a Hydra-Matic 3T40 SRTA Assembly, (OPNC 8665980), following the instructions and cautions listed in the 1990 Buick Skylark Service Manual, pages 7A-26 through 29.


If the transaxle is replaced, please advise the owner that memory functions may have been lost due to disconnection of the battery.


NOTICE: COOLER FLUSHING MUST BE PERFORMED; THE TIME ALLOWANCE FOR TRANSAXLE REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENT PROVIDES FOR THIS.


If the transaxle is replaced, do NOT install Kit P/N 8681967, go to Step 4.

Figure 1 H-M 3T40 Transaxle ID and Partial VIN Location:

Figure 2 Intermediate Servo and Accumulator Exhaust Valve:

3. Install Kit P/N 8681967 as follows:


A. Raise vehicle and suitably support (see section OA in service manual).

B. Remove fluid pan and gasket. Discard gasket.

C. Remove strainer and multi-lip seal. Save both parts for reinstallation.

D. Remove reverse fluid pipe retainers and bolts (140-143 in Figure 2)

E. Remove intermediate servo cover (137) and gasket (136) and discard.

F. Remove third accumulator exhaust valve (126) and exhaust spring (125) and discard.

G. Remove the intermediate servo assembly (shown as parts 128 thru 135 in Figure 2)

H. Install new seals (132 & 134) on new intermediate servo piston (133) from the kit. Transfer parts (128 thru 131, and 135) to the new intermediate servo piston to make a new intermediate servo assembly. Discard the old piston and old seals.


I. Install new third accumulator exhaust valve (126) and exhaust spring (125).


J. Install new intermediate servo cover and new gasket (137 and 136).


K. Reinstall reverse fluid pipe retainers and bolts (140-143). Torque to 24 nm (18 lb. ft.).


L. Reinstall fluid strainer and multi-lip seal.


M. Reinstall fluid pan with a new gasket. Retain gasket with Transjel J 36850. Torque to 11 nm (96 lb. in.).


N. Adjust fluid level as required.


4. Install a Campaign Identification Label.