Visual Inspection

Purpose

A careful and thorough visual inspection may quickly identify the cause of a malfunction and eliminate the need for additional diagnostic procedures.

Procedure - Visually inspect the following before performing any diagnostic tests.

1. Transmission Fluid Level

a. Before removing the dipstick, wipe all dirt off the protective cap and the dipstick handle.

b. The engine should be running at idle speed for at least one minute, with the vehicle on level ground.

c. The fluid should be at normal operating temperature (approximately 82°C or 1 80°F).

d. The fluid level is correct if it is in the "HOT" region on the dipstick.


2. Transmission Fluid Condition

- If the fluid smells burned or is contaminated with metal or friction material particles, a complete transaxle overhaul is needed.

- Air bubbles caused by over or under filling can cause noise, overheating, fluid oxidation and varnishing.

3. Manual Linkage

- Correct manual linkage adjustment is very critical to the correct operation of this transaxle.

- If you have any doubt concerning the quality of this adjustment, SEE Adjustments before proceeding.

4. Electrical Connections

a. Terminals in connectors must lock together.

b. Carefully inspect each connector for wires that are pushed out and lock them in properly.

c. Since most of the EATX connectors are at actual components, carefully inspect the following parts:

EATX Controller
Output Speed Sensor
Reverse Lamp Relay
Neutral Start Switch
EATX Relay
PRNDL Switch
Solenoid Pack
Throttle Position Sensor
Turbine Speed Sensor






d. Visually inspect the wire harness from the controller to the transmission.


e. Pay particular attention to potential hazards to the harness as it travels from the EATX controller to the transmission, such as the area where the harness is routed near the A/C clutch on the 3.OL engine.

Note: If a malfunction is not resolved by the visual inspection, follow the Flow of Diagnosis for the correct diagnostic sequence.