Jeep Wrangler 1997 Manual - page 984
TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION
Transmission identification numbers are stamped
on the left side of the case just above the oil pan gas-
ket surface (Fig. 2). Refer to this information when
ordering replacement parts.
RECOMMENDED FLUID
Mopar
t
ATF Plus 3, Type 7176 automatic trans-
mission fluid is the recommended fluid for Chrysler
automatic transmissions.
Dexron II fluid IS NOT recommended. Clutch
chatter can result from the use of improper
fluid.
EFFECTS OF INCORRECT FLUID LEVEL
A low fluid level allows the pump to take in air
along with the fluid. Air in the fluid will cause fluid
pressures to be low and develop slower than normal.
If the transmission is overfilled, the gears churn the
fluid into foam. This aerates the fluid and causing
the same conditions occurring with a low level. In
either case, air bubbles cause fluid overheating, oxi-
dation and varnish buildup which interferes with
valve, clutch and servo operation. Foaming also
causes fluid expansion which can result in fluid over-
flow from the transmission vent or fill tube. Fluid
overflow can easily be mistaken for a leak if inspec-
tion is not careful.
CAUSES OF BURNT FLUID
Burnt, discolored fluid is a result of overheating
which has two primary causes.
(1) A result of restricted fluid flow through the
main and/or auxiliary cooler. This condition is usu-
ally the result of a faulty or improperly installed
drainback valve, a damaged main cooler, or severe
restrictions in the coolers and lines caused by debris
or kinked lines.
(2) Heavy duty operation with a vehicle not prop-
erly equipped for this type of operation. Trailer tow-
ing or similar high load operation will overheat the
transmission
fluid
if
the
vehicle
is
improperly
equipped. Such vehicles should have an auxiliary
transmission fluid cooler, a heavy duty cooling sys-
tem, and the engine/axle ratio combination needed to
handle heavy loads.
FLUID CONTAMINATION
Transmission fluid contamination is generally a
result of:
•
adding incorrect fluid
•
failure to clean dipstick and fill tube when
checking level
•
engine coolant entering the fluid
•
internal failure that generates debris
•
overheat that generates sludge (fluid break-
down)
•
failure to reverse flush cooler and lines after
repair
•
failure to replace contaminated converter after
repair
The use of non recommended fluids can result in
transmission failure. The usual results are erratic
shifts, slippage, abnormal wear and eventual failure
due to fluid breakdown and sludge formation. Avoid
this condition by using recommended fluids only.
The dipstick cap and fill tube should be wiped
clean before checking fluid level. Dirt, grease and
other foreign material on the cap and tube could fall
into the tube if not removed beforehand. Take the
time to wipe the cap and tube clean before withdraw-
ing the dipstick.
Engine coolant in the transmission fluid is gener-
ally caused by a cooler malfunction. The only remedy
is to replace the radiator as the cooler in the radiator
is not a serviceable part. If coolant has circulated
through the transmission for some time, an overhaul
may also be necessary; especially if shift problems
had developed.
The transmission cooler and lines should be
reverse flushed whenever a malfunction generates
sludge and/or debris. The torque converter should
also be replaced at the same time.
Failure to flush the cooler and lines will result in
recontamination. Flushing applies to auxiliary cool-
ers as well. The torque converter should also be
replaced whenever a failure generates sludge and
debris. This is necessary because normal converter
flushing procedures will not remove all contami-
nants.
TORQUE CONVERTER—ELECTRONIC CLUTCH
The torque converter is a hydraulic device that
couples the engine crankshaft to the transmission.
The torque converter consists of an outer shell with
an internal turbine, a stator, an overrunning clutch,
an impeller and an electronically applied converter
Fig. 2 Transmission Part And Serial Number
Location
21 - 78
TRANSMISSION AND TRANSFER CASE
TJ
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)