Chrysler PT Cruiser 2001 Service Manual Supplement page 1246

PT
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
ACCUMULATORS
DESCRIPTION
The 41te underdrive, overdrive, low/reverse, and
2/4 clutch hydraulic circuits each contain an accumu-
lator. An accumulator typically consists of a piston,
seals, return spring(s), and a cover or plug. The over-
drive and underdrive accumulators are located
within the transaxle case, and are retained by the
valve body (Fig. 6).
Fig. 6 Underdrive and Overdrive Accumulators
1 – RETURN SPRING
2 – UNDERDRIVE CLUTCH ACCUMULATOR
3 – SEAL RING (2)
4 – OVERDRIVE CLUTCH ACCUMULATOR
The low reverse accumulator (Fig. 7) is also located
within the transaxle case, but the assembly is
retained by a cover and a snap-ring.
Fig. 7 Low/Reverse Accumulator Assembly
1 – ACCUMULATOR PISTON
2 – SEAL RINGS
3 – RETURN SPRINGS
4 – (NOTE NOTCH)
The 2/4 accumulator is located in the valve body. It
is retained by a cover and retaining screws (Fig. 8).
Fig. 8 2/4 Accumulator Assembly
1 – VALVE BODY
2 – RETAINER PLATE
3 – DETENT SPRING
4 – SPRINGS
5 – SEALS
6 – PISTON
OPERATION
The function of an accumulator is to cushion the
application of a frictional clutch element. When pres-
surized fluid is applied to a clutch circuit, the appli-
cation force is dampened by fluid collecting in the
respective accumulator chamber against the piston
and spring(s). The intended result is a smooth, firm
clutch application.
INPUT CLUTCHES
DESCRIPTION
Three hydraulically applied input clutches are used
to drive planetary components. The underdrive, over-
drive, and reverse clutches are considered input
clutches and are contained within the input clutch
assembly (Fig. 9). The input clutch assembly also
contains:
• Input shaft
• Input hub
• Clutch retainer
• Underdrive piston
• Overdrive/reverse piston
• Overdrive hub
• Underdrive hub
OPERATION
The three input clutches are responsible for driving
different components of the planetary geartrain.
TRANSAXLE 21 - 61