GMC Repair: Transmission solenoid, pulse width modulation, torque converter clutch


Question
QUESTION: How do you change a solenoid in the transmission? I bought the solenoid but not sure on how to remove the exisiting one.  Its for a 2005 GMC Sierra with a 5.3L V8. Its not a heavy duty transmission.

GMC Repair: Transmission solenoid, pulse width modulation, torque converter clutch
solenoid  
ANSWER: should be held in with small clips, once removed the solenoid should slide out

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for the help.
The wires that come off the solenoid go up into the transmission. How do I disconnect those wires.
Also, I had a terrible time trying to drop the transmission pan. I had to use a C-clamp to compress the bracket for the shifter against the axle in order to get the pan down.  It seems that the exhaust goes underneath the transmission and up one side. When  I was trying to remove the pan I bumped the solenoid.  Is there an easier way to drop the transmission pan without having to compress the shifter bracket? I tried removing the bracket by trying to unscrew the bracket but the bracket screw is up high and there is very limited space to get a socket wrench or screwdriver in there. The screw is a hex head screw

Answer
here is some more info, as for removing the pan, it is much easier with a hoist, we remove the trans mount nuts and lift the trans as High as it will go that usually frees up some space.


Remove the transmission filter. Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid and Filter Replacement .
Important: Removal of the 1-2 accumulator is necessary only if servicing the pressure control solenoid.

Remove the 1-2 accumulator, if necessary. Refer to Accumulator Assembly, Spacer Plate, and Gaskets .
Disconnect the internal wiring harness electrical connectors from the following components:
•  Transmission fluid pressure switch (1)

•  1-2 shift control solenoid (2)

•  2-3 shift control solenoid (3)

•  Pressure control solenoid (4)

•  torque converter clutch pulse width modulation (TCC PWM) solenoid (5)

•  3-2 control solenoid (6)


Remove the pressure control solenoid retainer bolt (364A) and retainer (378).
Remove the pressure control solenoid (377).

Notice: Be sure all solenoids are installed with the electrical connectors facing the non-machined (cast) side of the valve body; otherwise, the solenoids will bind against the transmission case as the valve body bolts are tightened and damage may occur.

Important: When installing the pressure control solenoid, the electrical connector must be in the position 1 shown. Do not use position 2.

Install the pressure control solenoid (377).
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

Install the pressure control solenoid retainer (378) and retainer bolt (364A) .
Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 11 N·m (97 lb in).