Cutlass V6-191 3.1L VIN M SFI (1998)
Shift Solenoid: Description and Operation
SHIFT SOLENOID VALVES: 1-2 AND 2-3
The Shift Solenoid valves are two identical, electronic exhaust valves that control upshifts and downshifts in all forward gear ranges. These valves are
normally open. These shift solenoid valves work together in a combination of ON and OFF sequences in order to control the positions of the 1-2, 2-3,
and 3-4 shift valve trains. The PCM monitors numerous inputs to determine the appropriate solenoid state combination and transmission gear for the
vehicle operating conditions.
IMPORTANT: The solenoid states are normally ON (1-2) and OFF (2-3) in the P, R, and N gears. However, these may change based on the vehicle
speed and the throttle position.
The PCM energizes the shift solenoid valves by providing a ground to the solenoid's electrical circuit. This sends current through the coil winding of
the solenoid, thereby creating a magnetic field. The magnetic field repels the plunger inside the solenoid. This seats the solenoid metering ball against
the fluid inlet port. This action prevents the exhaust of fluid through the solenoid. It then provides an increase in fluid pressure at the end of the shift
valves. This fluid pressure initiates an upshift by moving the shift valves. Refer to the oil flow diagrams for a complete description of the hydraulic
control of the shift valves for each gear range.
The resistance on the shift solenoid valves should measure between 19 - 24 ohms when measured at 20°C (68°F) and between 24 - 31 ohms when
measured at 88°C (190°F).
The shift solenoid valves should energize when the voltage is greater than 7.5 volts. The shift solenoid valves should de-energize when the voltage is
less than one volt.
