OIL COOLER INSPECTION [LA4AX-EL (CD4E)]

Caution

• Whenever a transaxle has been disassembled to install new parts or because the valve body sticks due to foreign material, the torque converter and oil cooler must be cleaned using a suitable cleaner. Under no circumstances should an attempt be made to clean the converters by hand agitation using a solvent.

• When internal wear or damage has occurred in the transaxle, metal particles, clutch plate material or band material can be carried into the torque converter and oil cooler. These contaminants are a major cause of recurring transaxle concerns and must be removed from the system before the transaxle is returned for service.

Oil Cooler Flow Test

Note

• The transaxle linkage adjustment, ATF level and line pressure must be within the specification before performing this test. (See SELECTOR CABLE ADJUSTMENT.) (See AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID (ATF) INSPECTION [LA4AX-EL (CD4E)].) (See MECHANICAL SYSTEM TEST [LA4AX-EL (CD4E)].)

1. Remove the oil dipstick from the oil filler tube.

2. Place a funnel in the oil filler tube.

3. Lift up the vehicle and position suitable safety stands under the vehicle.

4. Remove the cooler return line (rear fitting) from the fitting on transaxle case.

5. Connect one end of a hose to the cooler return line and route the other end of the hose to a point where it can be inserted into the funnel at the oil filler tube.

6. Remove the safety stands and lower the vehicle. Insert the end of the hose into the funnel.

7. Start the engine and run at idle with the transaxle in the N position.

8. When the ATF flowing from hose is all liquid, an adequate amount of ATF should be observed (approx. 1.0 L {1.1 US qt, 0.9 lmp qt} of liquid delivered in 15 s).

• If adequate flow is observed, the test is completed.

• If the flow is not adequate, stop the engine, and proceed to the next step.

9. Disconnect the hose from the cooler return line and connect it to the converter-out line (front fitting) on the case.

10. Repeat Steps 7 and 8.

• If there is a liberal flow of ATF, perform the back flushing and cleaning procedures. (See OIL COOLER FLUSHING/CLEANING [LA4AX-EL (CD4E)].)

- If there is no liberal flow of ATF after performing the back flushing and cleaning procedures, repair the pump and converter.

Oil Hose and Pipe Replacement

1. If ATF leakage is found in the oil hose and pipe, install a new oil hose and pipe. (See OIL HOSE AND PIPE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION [LA4AX-EL (CD4E)].)