QuestionQUESTION: 1994 caravan 3.0L a604(rebuilt twice). The trans will not go into TC Lockup. I have changed oil/filter with proper fluid, changed shift solenoid, changed input and output speed sensors, changed both temp sensors on engine. Not sure what's next. this is killing my gas mileage. Thanks...
ANSWER: Hi Russell,
Have you checked the torque converter lock up solenoid located on the side of the trans that faces the front of the vehicle? It has two wires, a dark blue voltage wire from fuse 16, and an orange/black wire that goes to pin 54 of the pcm which is what activates the solenoid. I would verify voltage is present when the ignition switch is 'on' and that the orange/black is patent from the plug to the pcm 54, and observe whether it is being grounded when you go over 40 mph. Also check that the solenoid coil is continuous. If that all works, then the solenoid will need to be fixed.
Good luck.
Roland
PS Use the 'thank/rate' tab below to get back to me, without having to wait for me to be 'available' to take a question. There is a space for comments. If this answer is helpful, please consider giving me a 'yes' where you see the 'nomination' question.
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QUESTION: This morn I disconnected the battery to reset the computers. Now when I try to start it it will not idle. I have to hold to pedal down a little. Sometimes it will idle after a few min.
ANSWER: Hi Russell,
I don't see a relationship between disconnecting the battery and a poor idle situation. Have you checked it for fault codes with the ignition key? If there are none then I would take a look at the egr valve to make sure that it isn't sticking slightly ajar which can cause a too lean mixture. Lubricate its stem with some WD-40 and move it back and forth using the tip of a screwdriver in the slot of the valve stem. The valve is located in the cross over exhaust pipe from the front to the rear exhaust manifold.
Roland
PS If you would consider a 'yes' for the nomination question in the 'thank/rate' area I would be much appreciative.
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QUESTION: Back to the original problem. Still not going into lockup. I responded to your question yesterday. Did you get the response??
AnswerHi Russell,
Yes I did, and now that I check it you are correct. The TCC solenoid is shown for the 3.0 'without transmission control;, but I overlooked that parenthetical remark. I know there is a tcc lockup on the 3 speed automatic, and I assumed that only 4-speed ETAX units were used with the 3.0L engine, thus my confusion/error.
Have you checked for fault codes stored in the ETAX controller via the blue plug that is under the dash on the driver side, using a DRB II code reader or equivalent? You will probably get a 38 which can be caused by low trans fluid (which you have checked, I know) and other than that says its due to an 'internal trans problem'. I assume that means the internal lock up clutch, unfortunately.
Roland
