Grand Caravan FWD V6-201 3.3L (1991)
Differential: All Technical Service Bulletins
Recall - Transaxle Ring Gear to Carrier Bolts May Break
No. 497
December, 1990
ADVANCED RECALL INFORMATION
To:
All Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler Dealers
Subject:
Recall No. 497 -- Transaxle Differential Ring Gear Bolts
Models:
1991 Front Wheel Drive Cars and Mini-Vans as follows:
^
Equipped with automatic transaxle (3-speed or 4-speed).
^
Built during months of August, September and October, 1990 -- MDH 0801XX through 1031XX.
^
Still in dealer inventory.
^
Imports, Monaco and Laser models are not involved.
Problem:
Some of the bolts used to attach the transaxle differential ring gear to its carrier may break during vehicle operation.
Action:
Immediate service is required to inspect for, and replace if necessary, suspect ring gear bolts. This service must be performed on the above model
vehicles in dealer inventory before retail delivery.
The following summarizes the instructions and requirements of the required service:
Identification of Suspect Transaxles
4-Speed Automatic (A-604)
1)
From the driver's side (underhood), inspect the transaxle differential fins next to the extension housing for a pink paint mark. If there is a pink
mark present, the transaxle has been cleared and no further action is required. The vehicle may be delivered.
If a pink mark is not present then proceed with steps 2 through 4.
2)
Locate the transaxle identification label. This label is located on the transaxle case next to the solenoid assembly (see page 21-126 of the
1991 FWD Car Engine, Chassis and Body Service Manual). The label can be viewed from the front of the vehicle looking down between the
transmission fluid dipstick and the battery; under the battery.
3)
Read the build date on the label. Printing on the label is:
K
XXX
0633
XXXX
(Plant)
(Part Number)
(Build Date Example)
(Sequence No.)
All 12 characters may not be visible, but the last 8 digits will be. The important data is the Build Date (first grouping of 4 digits).
4)
If the build date is before 0594 or after 0626, no further action is required and the vehicle may be delivered.
If the Build Date falls within the range 0594 through and including 0626, the ring gear bolts must be inspected. Proceed to the
Inspection/Repair portion of this letter for instructions.
3-Speed Automatic (A-404)
1)
From the driver's side (underhood), inspect the transaxle differential fins next to the extension housing for a pink paint mark. If there is a pink
mark present, the transaxle has been cleared and no further action is required. The vehicle may be delivered.
If a pink mark is not present, then proceed with steps 2 through 4.
2)
Locate the transaxle identification number. This number is stamped on the left (driver's) side transaxle oil pan rail, forward of the transaxle
rear end-cover. It can be viewed from the left front wheel housing. The inner wheel house splash shield may need to be pulled back slightly to
view the number.
3)
Read the build date portion of the number as follows:
