A/T - Shudder During EMCC Operation
NO.: TSB-96-23-022DATE: October, 1996
MODEL: 1995-96 Eclipse
SUBJECT:
SHUDDER DURING EMCC OPERATION
PURPOSE
Some affected vehicles may experience a light-to-moderate transaxle shudder during torque converter Electronic Modulated Converter Clutch (EMCC) operation. The condition may typically occur when driving on smooth roads or on long uphill grades at vehicle speeds between 28 - 42 mph. The shudder is a result of leakage in the A/T front oil pump due to a worn bushing. A pump "whine" noise may also occur with the shudder.
If Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 38 "Torque Converter Control Out of flange" is set, the A/T front oil pump assembly and the torque converter must be replaced. An improved torque converter with bonded clutch friction material is listed in the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin.
IMPORTANT:
If a 1995 model year vehicle experiences the shudder condition described above, but DTC 38 is not set, refer to TSB-95-23-002 "TCM Reprogramming for Poor Shift Quality" for Transmission Control Module (TCM) reprogramming instructions using reprogramming cartridge MIT992OO8.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
1995-96 Eclipse models equipped with 2.0L non-turbocharged engine and automatic transmission.
PROCEDURE
If the vehicle experiences A/T shudder during EMCC operation and DTC 38 is set:
1. Follow the appropriate troubleshooting steps for DTC 38 and any other DTCs set by the TCM or powertrain control module (PCM). Refer to the appropriate-Eclipse service manual for troubleshooting and repair information.
2. Replace the torque converter and A/T front oil pump assembly, using new seals and gaskets. Use the part numbers listed in the PARTS INFORMATION section of this bulletin.
3. Reverse flush the A/T oil cooler and oil cooler lines as follows:
a. Locate the ATF cooler lines at the top of the transaxle housing. The outlet (pressure) line is secured to the nipple closest to the radiator. The inlet (return) line is secured to the nipple closest to the bulkhead.
b. Remove the ATF cooler line closest to the radiator and place it into a container large enough to collect 2-3 quarts of ATF.
c. Remove the other ATF cooler line and install it into the nipple closest to the radiator. This will back-flush the ATF oil cooler.
d. With the parking brake set, the engine off, and the gear selector in neutral, add ATF to bring the ATF level to the HOT mark on the A/T dipstick.
e. Start the engine, allow to idle for five seconds, then immediately turn the key to OFF. Add ATF to bring the ATF level back to the HOT dipstick mark.
f. Repeat Step "e". until there are approximately 2-3 quarts of ATF in the container.
g. Reconnect the oil cooler lines to their original locations.
h. Add ATF to bring the ATF level back to the HOT dipstick mark.
i With the gear selector still in neutral, start the engine and allow to idle until the ATF reaches operating temperature of 65-82°C (150-180°F).
j. Apply the service brakes and move the gear selector through every gear position. This will fill each of the A/T hydraulic circuits with ATF. Then return the gear selector to neutral.
k. Add ATF as necessary to bring the ATF level back to the HOT dipstick mark.
4. Verify that the TCM is the appropriate part number:
1995 models - TCM p/n M05269726
1996 models - TCM p/n M05293010
a. For 1995 models that do not have the appropriate TCM part number, refer to TSB-95-23-002 for TCM reprogramming using reprogramming cartridge MIT992008. This will update the TCM to the correct part number.
b. For 1996 models that do not have the appropriate TCM part number, refer to TSB-96-23-OO9 for TCM reprogramming instructions using reprogramming cartridge MIT992011. This will update the TCM to the correct part number.
PARTS INFORMATION
Description Part Number
Torque Converter M04796384
A/T Oil Pump Assembly M04567869
A/T Seal and Gasket M04883260
Oil Filter M04864505
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Normal warranty procedures apply. Torque converter and A/T front oil pump replacement on an as needed basis only if DTC 38 is set.