Transmission band adjustment instructions

CARLOSREB

MEMBER
2001 DODGE CARAVAN
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
64,000 MILES

Tranny had its first ATF replacement and it bumps a little when shifting to 2nd gear, otherwise it's good, I read bands need adjustment, at least 1-2, I see the screw and lock nut and read several places how to do it, I am a weekend mechanic and could do it but several sites say to tighten screw to 72 in. Lb and back off 2 turns, other sites say 1.5 turns, others say 2.5 turns so I am confused, are these back off turns so critical? If I back off 2 turns will that be ok? I am also afraid it could be worse after the adjustment than now.

1 Reply

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Was the fluid that used to
refill transmission ATF Plus 4, Type 9602, fluid
very important to use the ATF plus 4

ADJUSTMENT - FRONT BAND
The front (kickdown) band adjusting screw is located on the left side of the transmission case above the manual valve and throttle valve levers.
1.Disconnect battery negative cable.
2.Remove air cleaner assembly.
3.Loosen band adjusting screw lock nut Then back lock nut off 3-5 turns. Be sure adjusting screw turns freely in case. Apply lubricant to screw threads if necessary.
4.Tighten band adjusting screw to 8 N.m (72 INCH lbs.).
5.Back off front band adjusting screw 2 1/4 turns.
6.Hold adjuster screw in position and tighten lock nut to 47 N.m (35 ft. lbs.) torque.
7.Install air cleaner assembly. 8.Connect battery negative cable.

ADJUSTMENTS - REAR BAND
The transmission oil pan must be removed for access to the rear (low/reverse) band adjusting screw.
1.Raise vehicle.
2.Remove transaxle oil pan and drain fluid
3.Loosen band adjusting screw lock nut 5-6 turns. Be sure adjusting screw turns freely in lever.
4.Tighten adjusting screw to 5 N.m (41 INCH lbs.) (See Fig. 160 ).
5.Back off adjusting screw 3 turns.
6.Hold adjusting screw in place and tighten lock nut to 14 N.m (125 ft. lbs.) torque.
7.Install a bead of Mopar(R) Silicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant to the oil pan and install to case immediately.
8.Install oil pan-to-case bolts and torque to 19 N.m (165 INCH lbs.).
9.Lower vehicle and refill transmission with Mopar(R); ATF Plus 4, Type 9602, fluid.