Diagnostic Routine 242/342 - Torque Converter Operation Concern: Cycling/Shudder/Chatter

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Monterey and 2004 Ford Freestar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

TORQUE CONVERTER OPERATION CONCERN: CYCLING/SHUDDER/CHATTER

Possible Component	Reference/Action
242 - ELECTRICAL ROUTINE
Powertrain Control System
Electrical Inputs/Outputs, Vehicle Wiring Harnesses, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), TCC, TFT Sensor, BPP Switch, Internal Wiring Harness, TSS	Carry out Torque Converter Clutch Operation Test as described under Road Test Vehicle. Run On-Board Diagnostic. Refer to the INTRODUCTION - CNG, FLEX-FUEL & GASOLINE for diagnosis. Go To PINPOINT TEST B: TRANSMISSION FLUID TEMPERATURE (TFT) SENSOR , Go To PINPOINT TEST C: TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH (TCC) SOLENOID or Go To PINPOINT TEST F: TURBINE SHAFT SPEED (TSS) SENSOR . Refer to PINPOINT TESTS - NON OSC EQUIPPED VEHICLES .
342 - HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL ROUTINE
Fluid condition	Prior to carrying out this action, make sure all electrical diagnostics have been carried out. Inspect fluid condition. If burnt, drain fluid and converter. Install new fluid and fluid filter assembly. Bring vehicle to normal operating temperature. Carry out TRANSAXLE DRIVE CYCLE TEST . Carry out On-Board Diagnostic. If condition still exists, continue diagnostics.
Incorrect Pressures
Low line pressure, low EPC	Check pressure at line and EPC taps. Carry out Line Pressure and Stall Speed Tests. Refer to SPECIAL TESTING PROCEDURES . See the LINE PRESSURE CHART . If not OK, check the Main Control Valve Body.
Main Control Valve Body
Bolts out of torque specification	Tighten bolts to specification.
Gaskets and Separator Plate - damaged, off location	Inspect for damage. Install new as required.
Valve Body Pilot Sleeve - damaged, misaligned Manual Valve, Bypass Clutch Control Valve and Plunger, Converter Regulator Valve, Solenoid Regulator Valve - stuck, damaged	Inspect for damage. Install new as required.
TCC Solenoid - not functioning	Activate the solenoid using the Transmission Tester. If the solenoid operation cannot be felt when placing hand on solenoid, install a new solenoid. Inspect O-rings for damage. Repair as required.
Turbine Shaft
Seals - damaged, missing	Inspect for damage. Install new as required.
Pump Shaft
Seals - damaged, missing	Inspect seals for damage. Install new as required.
Torque Converter
Refer to TORQUE CONVERTER .