Torque Converter Clutch Concerns: Cycling/Shudder/Chatter - 242/342

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

TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH CONCERNS: CYCLING/SHUDDER/CHATTER - 242/342

Possible Component	Reference/Action
242 - ELECTRICAL ROUTINE
Powertrain Control System
Electrical inputs/outputs, vehicle wiring harnesses, internal transmission wiring harnesses, PCM, TCC, BBP, TP, RPM, TSS, OSS	Carry out TCC tests. Run on-board diagnostics. REFER to the INTRODUCTION - CNG, FLEX-FUEL & GASOLINE article. Use scan tool to carry out Pinpoint Test. Repair as required. Clear codes, road test and rerun on-board diagnostics.
Speed control equipped vehicles	Evaluate with speed control off.
342 - HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL ROUTINE
Fluid
Fluid contaminated	Inspect fluid for contamination. If contaminated, locate source of contamination. If burnt, inspect mechanical band, clutches. Repair as required.
Main Control Assembly
Screw out of torque specification	Tighten to specification.
Gasket damaged, off location	Inspect and install a new gasket.
Separator plate damaged	Inspect for damage. Repair as required.
TCC, solenoid stuck, damaged, O-ring damaged or out of bore	Inspect for damage. Carry out solenoid function test as listed in electrical routine. Repair as required.
TCC solenoid and valve (200), converter clutch control valve (201), thermostat bypass valve/cooler limit valve (216), spring, damaged, missing, misassembled, stuck, bore damaged	Inspect for damage. If damaged, install a new main control. If parts are missing, install new parts or main control. If misassembled, reassemble correctly. Do not stone, file or sand valves. This will remove the anodized finish and may result in further main control or transmission damage.
Pump Assembly
Screws out of torque specification	Tighten screws to specification.
Cross leaks	Inspect for damage. Repair as required.
Front pump seal damage	Inspect for damage. Repair as required.
Seal on inner pump gear damaged	Inspect for damage. Repair as required.
Torque Converter Clutch Assembly
End clearance (excessive), internal leakage, clutch material damage	Carry out end play check. Inspect and repair as required.