A/T, M/T - Repair Precautions to Prevent Damage

June 2006
Technical Service

SI B 11 04 06
Engine

SUBJECT
Engine, Transmission, or Clutch Related Complaints

MODEL
All

SITUATION
Various complaints concerning the engine, transmission, clutch, or noise characteristics of the vehicle have been traced to the absence or damage of the alignment dowels between the engine and
transmission.

In many cases the dowels required to center the engine/transmission were not fitted, or were damaged, during a previous repair in which the engine and transmission were separated.

If the alignment of the engine flywheel to the transmission input shaft, or torque converter, is incorrect any of the following complaints may result:

1. Clutch complaints: slipping, shudder, or poor disengagement.

2. Noise from transmission input shaft.

3. Transmission pops out of gear.

4. Difficulty changing gears.

5. Internal damage to an automatic transmission.

PROCEDURE
When performing any repair, which involves separating the engine and transmission, always check that the dowels are undamaged and properly in place before reassembly.

Important notes:
For engines with a magnesium crankcase only aluminum dowels may be used. Always refer to ETK for the correct dowels for the engine and model concerned.

WARRANTY INFORMATION
Information only. Any damage as a result of missing or damaged dowels is not a warranty matter.