Torque converter stays engaged (locked up)

lightorch · #1 12-31-2006, 08:34 PM

1996 caravan 3.3 - The torque converter stays engaged (locked-up) all the time. Because of this , it's almost imposible to drive from a stand still . It will start and run fine in park but when I shift it into gear it dies.
Any idea and what would cause it to stay locked-up?

Thanks,
Bruce

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Jetmeck · #2 01-01-2007, 05:52 AM

I'll take a stab at this. If it was a GM it would be the TCC ( torque convertor clutch) solenoid. I don't know exactly how these arse backwards front drives actuate the clutch to lock on the convertor but I'll betcha there is a solenoid in there somewhere. On GM rear drives you have access to this solenoid just by dropping the pan.

lightorch · #3 01-01-2007, 03:43 PM

Yes, my thought also. But where's the soleoid located?

brandoncrone · #4 01-03-2007, 12:22 AM

The solenoid is in the solenoid pack on the front of the transmission. Doubt its that though, could be a failed torque converter. Not like a GM at all. Could be other problems too.

Jetmeck · #5 01-04-2007, 06:06 AM

I guess it is like a GM afterall, it has a soleniod controlling the lockup doesn't it ? They all have a solenoid of some type to lock the convertor up. That solenoid pack was about 200 dollars aftermarket last I priced one.

I darn sure would try that before pulling the tranny unless you need the exercise because there is just as a much a chance that is what the problem is as the convertor clutch being shot. You don't even have to drop the pan to change the solenoid pack. I checked that out a few years ago and totally forgot about it.

BNtune · #6 01-04-2007, 03:20 PM

Unpluging the solenoid have any effect?

brandoncrone · #7 01-05-2007, 12:44 AM

You can unplug the solenoid, but you will have 2nd and reverse only. Will put the trans controller into limp-in.

BNtune · #8 01-05-2007, 02:13 PM

Cool,should stay running when put in gear. Unless converter is locked[sm=lockeddance.gif]

jasann · #9 03-19-2007, 09:41 AM

lightorch, did you fix your trans? i have 92 that is also locked, did unpluging solenoid work/ or replacement of solenoid? please let me know,
thanks, jason