Chrysler 1997 Stratus Convertible RHD Service Manual page 970

IDENTIFICATION TAG
21 - 2 TRANSAXLE
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Fig. 1 Identification Tag Location
OPERATION
The gear ratios for the 41TE transaxle are as fol-
lows:
1st . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.84
2nd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.57
3rd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.00
OD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.69
Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.21
Final Drive Ratio is dependent on which engine
option is selected.
2.0 Liter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.08 FDR
2.4 Liter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.91 FDR
2.5 Liter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.91 FDR
The torque converter clutch is available in 2nd,
direct, or overdrive gear. The shift lever is conven-
tional with six positions: P, R, N, OD, 3, and L avail-
able. When OD is selected the transaxle shifts
through all four speeds with torque converter clutch
available in overdrive. This position is recommended
for most driving. The 3 position is tailored for use in
hilly, mountainous driving or trailer towing. When 3
is selected, the transmission uses only 1st, 2nd, and
direct gears with 2nd-direct shift delayed to 40 mph
or greater. When operating in 3 or L positions torque
converter clutch application occurs in direct gear.
This improves transmission cooling under heavy
loads. If high transmission oil or engine coolant tem-
perature occurs, the torque converter clutch will also
engage in 2nd gear. The L position provides maxi-
mum engine braking for descending steep grades.
Unlike most current transaxles, upshifts are pro-
vided to 2nd or direct gear at peak engine speeds if
the accelerator is depressed. This provides engine
over-speed protection and maximum performance.
FLUID LEVEL AND CONDITION
NOTE: The transmission and differential sump have
a common oil sump with an opening between the
two.
The torque converter fills in both the (P) Park and
(N) Neutral positions. Place the selector lever in (P)
Park to check the fluid level. The engine should be
running at idle speed for at least one minute,
with the vehicle on level ground. This will
assure complete oil level stabilization between
differential and transmission. The fluid should be
at normal operating temperature (approximately 82
C. or 180 F.). The fluid level is correct if it is in the
HOT region (cross-hatched area) on the oil level indi-
cator.
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, the air bubbles can cause overheat-
ing, fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can inter-
fere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
and is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle overhaul is needed.
Be sure to examine the fluid on the dipstick closely.
If there is any doubt about its condition, drain out a
sample for a double check.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
SELECTION OF LUBRICANT
It is important that the proper lubricant be used in
the 41TE transaxle. MOPAR ATF PLUS (Automatic
Transmission Fluid—type 7176) should be used to
aid in assuring optimum transmission performance.
Fluids of the type labeled DEXRON III Automatic
Transmission Fluid
DEXRON III can be used only if the recommended
fluid is not available. If more than a small amount of
DEXRON III is used shudder or shift quality prob-
lems may result. It is important that the transmis-
sion fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using
the recommended fluids.
are not recommended
JX
.