Sunfire L4-2.2L VIN F (2002)
Fluid - M/T: All Technical Service Bulletins
M/T - Grinding/Rattling Noise
File In Section: 07 - Transmission/Transaxle
Bulletin No.: 02-07-29-001
Date: February, 2002
TECHNICAL
Subject:
Grinding/Rattle Type Noise Coming From Transmission
(Diagnose and Perform Repair)
Models:
2000-02 Chevrolet Cavalier
2001-02 Oldsmobile Alero
2000-02 Pontiac Sunfire
2001-02 Pontiac Grand Am
with Manual Transmission (RPO M86 or M94)
Condition
Some customers may comment on a grinding or rattle type noise coming from the transmission. The noise usually occurs with the transmission in first or
second gear at low RPMs and can be intermittent.
Cause
This condition may be originated by the natural harmonics of the engine that leads to a vibration in the transmission.
Correction
There are two separate noises. Follow the diagnostic procedures listed below to determine which noise the vehicle has and perform the outlined repair. If
you are comparing like vehicles, you must compare vehicles with the same motor and similar mileage.
Diagnosis for Noise # 1
This is a very distinct noise that is usually much louder than the second noise that can be associated with this transmission. If the vehicle is not making
any noise when trying to verify the condition, it can be induced by making several tight left hand circles with the vehicle at normal operating
temperature. Making a sharp right hand turn will usually stop the noise. While the noise is occurring, in order to distinguish between the two noises, you
can press lightly on the clutch pedal without releasing the clutch and the noise will NOT go away or change. As a second diagnostic aid, while the
vehicle is making the noise, shift to third gear and the noise will stop. If the noise is determined to be this type, perform the repair for noise # 1.
Repair for Noise # 1
Replace the transmission fluid with Saturn Manual Transmission Lubricant, P/N 21018899. Overfill to a capacity of 2.4 L (2.6 qts). A possible side
effect of this repair may be a higher shift effort.
1.
Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in the General Information subsection of the appropriate Service Manual.
2.
Place a suitable container under the transmission assembly.
3.
Remove the drain plug located on the bottom of the transmission and completely drain the fluid.
4.
Re-install the drain plug.
Tighten
Tighten the drain plug to 38 N.m (28 lb ft).
5.
Lower the vehicle.
6.
Remove the fill plug located on the top/middle of transmission on the driver side, near the red vent cap. If you use the check level plug on the side
of the transmission, you will not be able to overfill the transmission.
