41TE 4-Speed

The 41TE Ultradrive transaxle uses fully adaptive controls. Adaptive controls perform functions based on sensor information. The transaxle is conventional in that it uses hydraulically-applied clutches to shift a planetary geartrain; however, it uses electronics to control virtually all functions.

The transaxle provides forward ratios of 2.84, 1.57, 1.00 and 0.069 with torque converter lock-up available in second, direct and overdrive gear; the reverse ratio is 2.21. The shift lever is conventional with six positions. When overdrive (OD) is selected, the transaxle shifts normally through all four speeds with lock-up in overdrive. The D position is tailored for use in hilly or mountainous driving. When D is selected, the transaxle uses only first, second and direct gears with second direct shift delayed to 40 mph or greater. When operating in D or L positions, torque converter lock-up occurs in direct gear for improved transmission cooling when towing trailers and on steep grades. If high engine coolant temperature occurs, the torque converter will also lock-up in second gear. The L position provides maximum engine braking for descending steep grades. Unlike most current transaxles, upshifts are provided to second or direct gear at peak engine speeds if the accelerator is depressed. This provides engine over-speed protection and maximum performance.