Diagnosing the infamous GM 8L45, 8L90 3-4 neutral
Today we are examining what we’ll call a “Twilight Zone” transmission complaint: an issue that appears out of nowhere while performing a small, insignificant repair and initially makes little sense. The 8L45 and 8L90 3-4 Neutral condition, which has been baffling many shops/techs, is one such complaint. Problem: 3-4 Shift is Neutral after installing a
Troubleshooting Ford 6F35 torque converter one-way clutch failure
It is Friday afternoon at Cooter’s Transmission, and the last of the day’s jobs are being wrapped up. Everyone is getting ready for spirits and good food at Buster’s Pub. A Ford 6F35 from a 2015 Ford Explorer rebuilt earlier in the week is installed, and something is not right. John, the installer, puts it
How to set up a Snap-on scanner for Dodge Secure Vehicle Gateway protocol
If you have tried to scan a 2018 and later Chrysler/Dodge vehicle, you may have found a notice on your scanner saying that the Secure Gateway is locked; you can only read codes and are unable to perform clearing of codes or resets. Chrysler is the first company to implement this, and others may follow
How to easily check endplays in Chrysler RFE transmissions
When building a reliable transmission for everyday drivers, it’s tempting to skip checking gear set endplay because of the factory tool cost. Often, I hear: “I feel movement, so at least I know it is not going to bind up;” or “This play feels good to the touch, so it is okay;” or “It’s not
Deciphering the alphabet soup of shift feel
The GM 4L60 and 4L60-E transmissions have been around since 1982, so virtually everybody in the industry is familiar with their designs and how they work. However, one thing that still generates numerous technical calls and confusion is the alphabet soup of different letter codes that are stamped on the accumulator valve. What do they
TASC Force Tips: Vacuum Test Guide
This month’s TASC Force Tips details the Chrysler 62TE. NOTE: OE valves are shown in rest position and should be tested in rest position unless otherwise indicated. Test locations are pointed to with an arrow. Springs are not shown for visual clarity. Low vacuum reading indicates wear. For specific vacuum test information, visit the Sonnax
GM 6T40 Pump Identification Guide
The 6T40 was introduced in 2008 for General Motors front-wheel-drive cars in the Chevrolet Malibu and has gone through several changes throughout its three generations, specifically in the pump area. The 6T40 is closely related to the more lightweight 6T30 and the heavier duty 6T45 and 6T50. Generation one started phasing out during the 2012
8L90 Vacuum Testing
Below are the diagrams for vacuum testing GM 8L90 transmissions. Note: OE valves are shown in rest position and should be tested in rest position unless otherwise indicated. Test locations are pointed to with an arrow. Springs are not shown for visual clarity. A low vacuum reading indicates wear. For specific vacuum test information, refer
TASC Force Tips: Diagnosing 8L45 & 8L90 Shift Complaints
Sometimes attention to the smallest of items can save you big dollars.
TASC Force Tips: Hydraulics Fundamentals: Check Valves
while check valves are fairly simple in design and function, they can cause various shift issues and clutch failures when not working correctly.
Transmission Testing & Repairs: Make Sure You’re Vacuum Testing
Vacuum testing has become a trusted method for identifying valve body problems and verifying repairs.
TASC Force Tips: How to Avoid a Dipstick Move in 4L60-E Series Transmissions
This is certainly an issue that you should look into to ensure that your transmission has adequate fluid capacity to live a long health life.