96 transmission

[ABELL4610]

I need advice from the forum. Have a 96 PA that develops a shutter at times while driving on relatively level highway which seemed to start at constant highway speeds but now is occurring at even slower speeds (35-45 mph). It is a shutter/chatter that stops if I apply the brake slightly or accelerate. Transmission fluid is to level and is red with no burned smell. I had a scanner check for codes and there were none. Shifting and rpm's seem normal. The odometer has 94K on it. After reading the various forums, I thought the problem may be the TCC solenoid although there is no stalling. What to you think; is this likely? Also, if it is the TCC, is it something a novice can change? I looked at the transmission and on the back side, there is a round cover about 3" in diameter. Is it behind this cover and if so what problems would I encounter in replacing it? Thanks much! I really need you help.

[wrightz28]

Keeping it simple for a second, are you sure the lugs are tight? Could also be a problem with the drive axles to keep in mind. Inspect the boots for any cracking or tears, loose, missing clips etc.

[ABELL4610]

Originally Posted by wrightz28

Keeping it simple for a second, are you sure the lugs are tight? Could also be a problem with the drive axles to keep in mind. Inspect the boots for any cracking or tears, loose, missing clips etc.

Good thought! I then checked them both and they are in great shape. I could sure use some additional help with this problem.

[ks0309]

check brake rotors , if they are warped they will cause vibration and will stop if you apply brakes slighty. does problem still persist if you ride the brakes while it vibrates going down the hwy.

[ABELL4610]

Originally Posted by ks0309

check brake rotors , if they are warped they will cause vibration and will stop if you apply brakes slighty. does problem still persist if you ride the brakes while it vibrates going down the hwy.

As you say, and as I said in my query, if I touch the brake pedal the vibration stops instantly, so I think, if I understand your quote correctly, it would not, or does not, persist with riding the brakes. Hope this helps your diagnosis. Everything about the car seems normal to me other than this persistent short bursts of vibration. Thanks for responding and I'm open to any suggestions. The more I think about it, it may not be a transmission problem?

[wrightz28]

Just a thought, caliper binding? Hint would be excessive brake dust on the one wheel and blueish tinti on the rotor. Honestly still don't think it's a tranny prob.

[ABELL4610]

Originally Posted by wrightz28

Just a thought, caliper binding? Hint would be excessive brake dust on the one wheel and blueish tinti on the rotor. Honestly still don't think it's a tranny prob.

Checked that out today. I haven't and don't have an unusual amount of dust on the wheels and no more on one wheel than the other and the rotors don't have the bluish tint to which you refer. You know though, really, I have come to agree that it's probably not the transmission. But, I do have a problem and I appreciate any input available that may help me resolve it. It truly is annoying. Thank you wrightz28!

[wrightz28]

No prob, sorry we haven't licked this one yet, sure is a pickle and a half.

How, do you detect this shutter? Is it through the steering wheel? Felt through the floor? Any pedal vibrations? Just trying to get the full picture here.

[ABELL4610]

Originally Posted by wrightz28

No prob, sorry we haven't licked this one yet, sure is a pickle and a half.

How, do you detect this shutter? Is it through the steering wheel? Felt through the floor? Any pedal vibrations? Just trying to get the full picture here.

The whole car seems to shudder when it occurs and it usually only lasts for a few seconds at a time, only to occur again shortly. I guess this is why I initially thought it was the transmission. The first time I noticed it, it was while driving 70 mph. It may be because I am more sensitive to it now that I detect it occurring at slower speeds. Sometimes I may have to drive for a half-hour or so before it starts happening. I have to say, however, that it happens more often when driving at highway speeds. Hope this helps?

[wrightz28]

Hmmm, ok, the whole car huh?

Wondering if it may be actually something engine related, kind of like a misfire or momentary loss (drop) of fuel pressure? You know I'd hate to say it, but so far everything checks ok, it might be within reason to have it diagnosed. MAybe a live datastream scan of what the ECM is seeing may be of help, possibly a 'soft code' that dosen't trip the Check Engine light?

[Jed Rule]

If a shudder occurs while TCC is applying the problem is within the transaxle or torque converter. Something is not allowing the clutch to become fully engaged or is trying to apply and release the clutch at the same time.

If a shudder occurs AFTER the TCC has applied most of the time it has nothing to do with the transaxle. Unnoticed engine problems become noticeable due to the lock-up between the engine and trans. Check the usual suspects with regard to engine missfire, to avoid unnecessary transmission repairs

[ABELL4610]

Originally Posted by Jed Rule

If a shudder occurs while TCC is applying the problem is within the transaxle or torque converter. Something is not allowing the clutch to become fully engaged or is trying to apply and release the clutch at the same time.

If a shudder occurs AFTER the TCC has applied most of the time it has nothing to do with the transaxle. Unnoticed engine problems become noticeable due to the lock-up between the engine and trans. Check the usual suspects with regard to engine missfire, to avoid unnecessary transmission repairs

Ordered new plugs and wires today. Checked the plugs and the electrode was about shot making the gap in excess of .080. Should get them next week. Car has 92K miles and looks like these are original. Do you think this could be the solution. Usually the shudder occurs at speeds higher than the lockup speed. Thanks for your response and advice!

[wrightz28]

yahtzee! misfire. That might jsut be it.

[ABELL4610]

Originally Posted by Jed Rule

If a shudder occurs while TCC is applying the problem is within the transaxle or torque converter. Something is not allowing the clutch to become fully engaged or is trying to apply and release the clutch at the same time.

If a shudder occurs AFTER the TCC has applied most of the time it has nothing to do with the transaxle. Unnoticed engine problems become noticeable due to the lock-up between the engine and trans. Check the usual suspects with regard to engine missfire, to avoid unnecessary transmission repairs

Installed new plugs and wires this week. Quite a job getting to the back three. Haven't driven it much since and the shudder I've referred to usually happens after the TCC has applied (60 mph for example), but it did happen at 42 mph today (after new plugs and wires) lasting about two seconds.

Tell me more about soft codes and what they might reveal. Is a dealer the only one able to provide this service?

Thanks again for everyone's effort!

[Frank002]

I have the same problem with my 96 Park Avenue that you have described. Have you had any luck with solving the problem?