Tribute DX 4WD V6-3.0L DOHC (2002)
Transmission Cooler: Testing and Inspection
TRANSAXLE FLUID COOLER
Caution: Whenever a transaxle has been disassembled to install new parts or because the valve body sticks from foreign material, the torque
converter and transaxle fluid cooler must be cleaned by using a suitable cleaner. Under no circumstances should an attempt be made to clean
converters by hand agitation with solvent.
When internal wear or damage has occurred in the transaxle, metal particles, clutch plate material or band material can be carried into the torque
converter and transaxle fluid cooler. These contaminants are a major cause of recurring transaxle concerns and must be removed from the system
before the transaxle is returned for repair.
Transaxle Fluid Cooler Flow Test
Note: The transaxle linkage adjustment, fluid level and line pressure must be within specification before carrying out this test.
1. Remove fluid level indicator from fluid filler tube.
2. Place funnel in fluid filler tube.
3. Raise vehicle on hoist and position suitable safety stands under vehicle.
4. Remove cooler return line (rear fitting) from fitting on transaxle case.
5. Connect one end of a hose to the cooler return line and route the other end of the hose up to a point where it can be inserted into the funnel at the
fluid filler tube.
6. Remove safety stands and lower vehicle. Insert end of hose into funnel.
7. Start engine and run at idle with transaxle in NEUTRAL range.
8. When fluid flowing from hose is all liquid, an adequate amount of fluid should be observed (approximately 1.0 liter (1.0 quart) of liquid
delivered in 15 seconds). If adequate flow is observed, test is completed.
9. If flow is not adequate, stop engine. Disconnect hose from cooler return line and connect it to converter-out line (front fitting) on case.
10. Repeat Steps 7 and 8. If flow is now liberal, carry out back flushing and cleaning procedures. If flow is still not liberal, repair the pump or
converter.
Transaxle Fluid Cooler Tube Replacement
When fluid leakage is found at the transaxle fluid cooler tubes or installation of new cooler tubes is necessary.
