A/T - Growling Noise In Park On an Incline

91cadillac01

Bulletin No.T-91-35


File in Group 7

Number 229

Corp. Ref. No. 077133R

Date Jan. 1991


SUBJECT: GRINDING/GROWLING NOISE IN PARK ON AN INCLINE - 3T40, 4T60,4T60-E


MODELS AFFECTED: 1985-1991 DE VILLES AND FLEETWOODS 1986-1991 ELDORADOS AND SEVILLES 1982-1988 CIMARRONS


Some 1985-1991 DeVilles and Fleetwoods, 1986-1991 Eldorados and Sevilles, and 1982-1988 Cimarrons equipped with Hydra-Matic 3T40, 4T60, and 4T60-E transaxles may exhibit a grinding and/or growling noise that is noticeable when standing in "park" on a hill or slope with the engine running and the parking brake not applied. Under these conditions the weight of the vehicle puts a load on the parking pawl which can create a "ground-out" path through the drive axles, front struts, springs, and spring towers. Normal engine noise can be transmitted to the passenger compartment through the "ground-out" path.


Owners concerned about this condition should be advised to apply the parking brake prior to shifting into "park". This is the recommended procedure described in the Owner's Manual. Applying the parking brake first will put the load of the vehicle on the rear brakes rather than on the parking pawl.


Refer to the appropriate Owner's Manual for additional details and instructions.