A/T Converter Clutch - Shift/Kickdown Improvement
NUMBER: 18-17-00GROUP: Vehicle Performance
DATE: September 22, 2000
SUBJECT:
Torque Converter Clutch Control/Kickdown Shift Quality Improvements
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Transmission Control Module (TCM) with new software.
MODELS:
1999 (LH) Concorde/Intrepid/LHS/3OOM
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some vehicles may exhibit torque converter clutch control bump between 72 and 96 kph (45 and 60 mph). This bump will be most noticeable with light throttle input from the driver.
In addition, the software will make kick down shift quality less harsh.
DIAGNOSIS:
Using the Mopar Diagnostic System (MDS2) and or the Diagnostic Scan Tool (DRB III(R)) with the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures Manual, verify all engine/transmission systems are functioning as designed. If Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) are present, record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin. If the only condition described by the vehicle operator is torque converter bump or harsh downshifts, Perform the Repair Procedure.
NOTE:
WHENEVER A TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (TCM) IS REPLACED, THE SOFTWARE OF THE REPLACEMENT CONTROLLER MUST BE VERIFIED FOR THE LATEST REVISION LEVEL. USE THE FLASH PROCEDURE TO UPDATE REPLACED CONTROLLERS AS NECESSARY.
PARTS REQUIRED:
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
NOTE:
THE MDS2 AND DRB III(R) ARE REQUIRED TO PERFORM PART OF THIS REPAIR. THE MDS2 SYSTEM MUST BE OPERATING AT CIS CD2068 OR HIGHER.
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
1. Log onto the MDS2 system.
2. Connect the MDS2 (Mopar Diagnostic System) and DRB III(R) (Scan Tool) to the vehicle and switch the ignition key to "ON".
NOTE:
AUTO CONNECTION WILL OCCUR ONCE THE DRB III(R), MDS2 AND VEHICLE ESTABLISH COMMUNICATION. THE "CANNOT READ VIN FROM DRB III(R)" MESSAGE (ON THE MDS2) WILL BE REPLACED BY THE VEHICLE VIN. PRESS THE "OK" BUTTON ON THE MDS2 TO REQUEST A MDS2 SESSION FOR THE VEHICLE VIN INDICATED. PRESS THE "OK" BUTTON WHEN ASKED TO BEGIN SESSION.
3. Push the FLASH tab on the MDS2.
4. Select READ PART NUMBERS FROM VEHICLE and click SHOW UPDATES on the MDS2.
NOTE:
A MESSAGE MAY APPEAR (AFTER STEP 3 OR 4) THAT INDICATES NO UPDATES ARE AVAILABLE. IF THIS OCCURS, MAKE SURE YOUR DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT IS OPERATING AT THE LATEST SOFTWARE LEVEL AS LISTED EARLIER IN THIS BULLETIN. IF THE LATEST SOFTWARE IS INSTALLED, AND NO UPDATES ARE AVAILABLE, ANOTHER VEHICLE CONDITION EXISTS THAT WILL REQUIRE FURTHER INVESTIGATION.
5. Select the new software part number with the light pen and click UPDATE CONTROLLER SOFTWARE.
6. The MDS2 and DRB III(R) will prompt for any operator action needed during the remainder of the reprogramming process.
NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING STEPS ARE REQUIRED BY LAW.
7. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Software Update Label" P/N 04669020 (Figure 1). Attach the label to the PCM and cover the label with the clear plastic overlay.
8. Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Modification Label" p/n 04275086 and attach the label near the VECI label (Figure 2).
POLICY: Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
FAILURE CODE: FM - Flash Module