Section 07-01A: Transmission, Automatic, A4LD
1993 Mustang Workshop Manual
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

Quick Tests

The Quick Tests are in the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual. These tests are used to diagnose the PCM, sensors and actuators.

The following is a guide for using the Quick Tests, with some special considerations to remember.

Quick Test 1.0 Visual Check

Perform the Visual Check as outlined in the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual.

Quick Test 2.0 Vehicle Preparation and Equipment Hookup

Quick Test 3.0 Key On, Engine Off (KOEO)

Some special considerations for Key On, Engine Off On-Board Diagnostics include the following:

 

KOEO On-Board Diagnostics

NOTE: If SUPER STAR II Tester is unavailable, refer to the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual for alternate methods to run the On-Board Diagnostics.

  1. Activate On-Board Diagnostics by pressing center button on SUPER STAR II Tester.
  1. Turn ignition switch to ON position.
  1. PCM will run On-Board Diagnostics and then output "hard" DTCs (or Code 11 or 111-pass test). "Hard" DTCs are repeated to make it easier to verify sequence. After "hard" DTCs have been repeated (or Code 11 or 111 repeated) a single pulse occurs (10) to signal that next set of DTCs will be from continuous test (or Code 11 or 111-pass).
  1. To display codes unlatch center button and use memory buttons to scroll through codes.

Quick Test 4.0 Continuous Test Memory Codes

Continuous memory codes are from concerns which were detected during normal vehicle operation. These codes are retained for 40 warm-up cycles.

After servicing any KOEO or KOER "hard" DTCs and a pass code 11 or 111 is received on both, service the continuous memory codes. Some special considerations for continuous testing include the following:

 

Special Test Modes

NOTE: The wiggle test may also be entered by "latching" STI; ON, OFF, ON.

  1. Wiggle test mode:
    1. After all DTCs have been received the wiggle test mode is entered — by pressing center button on STAR Tester twice. This will unlatch and relatch STI.
    1. The wiggle test allows the technician to attempt to re-create an intermittent malfunction. Tap, move and wiggle the suspected sensor and/or wire harness. When a malfunction is detected the Self Test Output (STO) will be turned on as long as the fault is present. STO ON will cause the STAR Tester to sound a continuous tone. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp will also illuminate.
  1. Output cycling test mode:
    1. After all KOEO DTCs have been received, the output test mode is entered. Actuator outputs will turn ON and OFF each time the throttle is depressed to WOT and then returned to closed position.

Quick Test 5.0 Key On, Engine Running (KOER)

The Engine Running On-Board Diagnostics provides "hard" DTCs only. Some special considerations for Engine Running On-Board Diagnostics include the following:

 

KOER On-Board Diagnostics

NOTE: Engine must be warm or DTC 116 — ECT sensor out of On-Board Diagnostic range will occur.

  1. Connect SUPER STAR II Tester, (if not already connected) with mode switch set to fast.
  1. Start and run engine until engine reaches operating temperature.
  1. Turn OFF engine and wait 10 seconds.
  1. Activate On-Board Diagnostic (press center button on STAR Tester).
  1. Start engine.
  1. The Engine Running Wiggle Test may be entered upon completion of the Engine Running On-Board Diagnostics.
 

Special Test Mode

  1. Wiggle test mode:

    The wiggle test allows the technician to attempt to recreate an intermittent malfunction. Tap, move and wiggle the suspected sensor and/or wire harness. When a malfunction is detected the STO will be turned on as long as the concern is present. STO ON will cause the STAR Tester to sound a continuous tone. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp will also illuminate.

    NOTE: The Wiggle Test may also be entered by "latching" STI; ON, OFF, ON.

Quick Test 6.0 Computed Timing Check

This Quick Test is used to diagnose engine idle concerns only. Any engine concerns or DTCs should be serviced BEFORE the transmission concerns are serviced.

 

After On-Board Diagnostics

After the On-Board Diagnostics procedures are completed, service all DTCs.

Begin with non-transmission related DTCs, then service any transmission related DTCs. Refer to the EEC-IV On-Board Diagnostic Trouble Code Description Chart for information on Condition and Symptoms. This chart will be helpful in referring to the proper manual(s) and to aid in diagnosing internal transmission concerns and external non-transmission inputs. The Pinpoint Tests are used in diagnosing electrical concerns of the A4LD transmission. Make sure that the vehicle wiring harness and the PCM are diagnosed as well. The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual will aid in diagnosing non-transmission electronic components.

NOTE: The vehicle wiring harness, PCM and non-transmission sensors may affect transmission operations. Service these concerns first. Use the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual.

 

Pinpoint Tests

If DTCs appear while performing the On-Board Diagnostics refer to the EEC-IV On-Board Diagnostic Trouble Code Description Chart for the appropriate service procedure. Prior to entering Pinpoint Tests, refer to any TSBs and Oasis messages for A4LD transmission concerns.

NOTE: Prior to entering Pinpoint Tests, check the PCM wiring harness for proper connections, bent or broken pins, corrosion, loose wires, proper routing, proper seals and their condition. Check the PCM, sensors and actuators for damage. Refer to the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual.

NOTE: After Electrical Diagnosis has been performed and a concern still exists, refer to the Mechanical Diagnosis.



Transmission Tester/Overlays and Adapters








Item Part Number Description
1 Transmission Tester
2 Power Cable
3 Overlay Cards
4 A4LD Adapter Cable
5 AODE Adapter Cable
6 AXODE Adapter Cable
7 E4OD Adapter Cable
8 Extender Cable


Tester Jacks








Item Part Number Description
1 VPWR Pin Jacks (red): VPWR test points for solenoid circuits.
2 Solenoid Signal Line Pin Jacks (black) Signal line test points for solenoid circuits.
3 B+ (red) and B- (black) Pin Jacks: Battery reference points when measuring circuits for shorts.
4 TOT Pin Jacks: Test points for TOT sensor.
5 TSS or OSS Pin Jacks: Test points for TSS or OSS sensor.
6 Diode Test Jack: Connect banana plug end of test probe into this jack for diode testing. Connect other end of test probe to solenoid signal pin jack (with diode and check mark).


Tester LEDs and Controls








Item Part Number Description
1 Overlay and Cable Correctly Installed LEDs: Only LEDs with symbol and cable correctly matched.
2 Status LEDs: LED OFF when not activated by tester (solenoid not activated, open circuit or signal line short to ground. LED GREEN when activated by tester and current draw is correct. LED RED when activated by tester and current draw is excessive (short to VPWR). All LEDs light orange during on-board diagnostic.
3 Solenoid Activate Buttons: Energize respective solenoids during click testing and activate selected circuits during DRIVE MODE testing.
4 Tester Mode Switch: Selects operating mode, either BENCH or DRIVE.
5 Solenoid Select/Gear Select Knob: Has three functions. In BENCH MODE: acts as shift solenoid selector for click testing. In DRIVE MODE: acts as forward gear selector in place of vehicle's PCM-controlled shifting. Hydraulic safety mechanisms and overrides are built into the transmission. In OHMS/DIODE check: allows you to measure ohms and check for presence of a diode on specific solenoids.
6 Diode Test Button: Activates DIODE TEST circuit.
7 Diode OK LED: With DIODE TEST BUTTON depressed, indicates condition of diode. (LED ON: diode OK.)


Transmission Tester Instructions




The Transmission Tester allows a technician to operate the electrical portion of the transmission independent of the vehicle electronics. The Transmission Tester usage is divided into five steps:

  1. Preliminary Testing and Diagnosis
  1. Installing the Transmission Tester
  1. Static Testing — Vehicle OFF
  1. Dynamic Testing — Vehicle Running
  1. Removing the Transmission Tester and Clearing DTCs

Preliminary Testing and Diagnosis

Before any diagnostic testing is done on a vehicle some preliminary checks must be performed, as outlined below. Be sure to write down your findings, especially any DTCs found, for future reference.

  1. Check transmission fluid level and condition.
  2. Check for add-on items (phones, computers, CB radio, etc).
  3. Visually inspect wiring harness and connectors.
  4. Check for vehicle modifications.
  5. Verify that the shift linkage is properly adjusted.
  6. Verify customer concern.
  7. Vehicle must be at a normal operating temperature.
  8. Perform vehicle EEC-IV On-Board Diagnostics.
  9. Record all DTCs.
  10. Repair all non-transmission codes.

Installing the Transmission Tester (Set Up Procedures)

Installing the Transmission Tester AT THE TRANSMISSION CONNECTOR allows the separation of the vehicle electronics from the transmission electronics. Disconnecting the normal vehicle electronics will in itself set additional codes and cause firm shifts. (Disconnecting the transmission connector defaults the transmission to maximum line pressure).

NOTE: During tester usage additional DTCs may be set. Therefore, it is important that all codes are erased after repairs have been made. To verify elimination of all codes rerun On-Board Diagnostics.

NOTE: A4LD transmission will not have firm shifts when using the tester. It does not default to maximum line pressure.

NOTE: The following manuals should be available to assist in diagnosis of electronically controlled transmissions:

  1. Disconnect vehicle harness at transmission connector.

     CAUTION: Do not attempt to pry off connectors with a screwdriver. This will damage the connector and could result in a transmission concern. If you have transmission heat shields, remove them first. Always replace heat shields after service.

  2. Turn tester solenoid select switch to the "OHMS/DIODE CHECK" position.
  3. Install A4LD overlay onto tester. Connect interface cable to transmission tester and then to the transmission connector.

     CAUTION: Route all cables away from HEAT SOURCES.

  4. Plug transmission tester power supply plug into cigarette lighter receptacle.
  5. Bench/Drive switch set to "BENCH" mode.

Static Testing — Vehicle "OFF"

Static testing procedures allow for shop testing of the transmission in the vehicle or on the bench. Completion of these tests prove out the transmission electronically.

 CAUTION: For resistance checks, be sure that the tester solenoid select switch is set to the "OHMS/DIODE CHECK" position or damage to the ohmmeter may result.

 

Resistance/Continuity Tests

  1. Refer to the appropriate Pinpoint Test to be performed based on the On-Board Diagnostic Trouble Codes displayed.
  2. Using a digital volt-ohmmeter and the Transmission Tester perform the Pinpoint Tests as required based on the On-Board Diagnostic Trouble Codes which were displayed.
  3. Perform repairs as indicated by the Pinpoint Tests. Always retest and road test vehicle after a repair.
 

Transmission Solenoids and Sensors Resistance Tests

Solenoids (SS 3-4/4-3, TCC)

If out of range refer to the pinpoint tests.

Pinpoint Test A — (SS 3-4/4-3);

Pinpoint Test C — TCC

SOLENOID SOLENOID RESISTANCE (ohms)
SS 3-4/4-3
TCC
26-40
26-40

 

Short to Ground and Solenoid Voltage Tests

NOTE: LED will turn GREEN when solenoid activates and turn OFF when deactivated.

LED will turn RED if an activated solenoid/harness is shorted to B+.

LED will remain OFF if an activated solenoid/harness is shorted to ground or no continuity.

  1. Tester Bench/Drive switch set to BENCH mode.
  1. Set voltmeter to 20 volt DC range.
  1. Connect voltmeter positive lead to the appropriate solenoid VPWR, connect voltmeter negative lead to the appropriate solenoid.
  1. Using a VOM, check for voltage across each solenoid by activating the solenoid switches. Depress the appropriate switch. The LED should illuminate, the voltage should change and an audible click may be heard. If LED does not illuminate, a short to ground condition exists.

    NOTE: SS 3-4/4-3 and TCC solenoid click may or may not be audible.

  1. Observe and record values.
 

Solenoid Diode Test

  1. Only used on SOLENOIDS with a DIODE symbol.
  1. Using a test lead from a VOM, connect the test lead at the DIODE test jack and to the appropriate solenoid signal jack (marked with check symbol).
  1. Depress diode switch and observe diode test LED. LED should illuminate green if correct.

    NOTE: A bad diode may cause PCM concerns.

Dynamic Testing — Vehicle Running

Dynamic testing is the final step in the Transmission Tester usage. It allows the transmission to be proven out electronically and hydraulically.

 

Transmission Solenoid Cycling and Drive Test Procedures

Preliminary Set Up

  1. Bench/Drive switch set to DRIVE mode.
  1. Set rotate gear select switch to first gear position.
  1. Vehicle in PARK.
  1. Start vehicle.

    Upshift/Downshift

    NOTE: These tests should be performed on the road. If performed on the hoist the technician may not feel all of the shifts when they are engaged.

    LEDs will turn green when solenoids are activated and turn off when deactivated. Refer to the appropriate overlay for the proper status/shift sequence of the shift solenoids during upshift and downshifts.

    SS 3-4/4-3 Upshift/Downshift

  1. Accelerate vehicle to 40 mph, allowing vehicle to upshift from first to second and then into third gear.

    Did the vehicle upshift from first to second and then into third?

    NOTE: These upshifts are hydraulically controlled.

  1. Accelerate vehicle to 45/55 mph and select fourth gear.

    Did the vehicle upshift to fourth gear?

    Did the 3-4/4-3 Shift solenoid activate/deactivate?

  1. Reverse the order to downshift.

    Does the vehicle downshift for fourth to third, third to second, and second to first?

    Did the 3-4/4-3 Shift solenoid activate/deactivate?

    Did the vehicle downshift hydraulically?

    Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Engagement

    NOTE: This test should be performed on the road. If performed on the hoist the technician may not feel the TCC engage.

     CAUTION: Do not depress TCC (CCO) switch with transmission in gear and the vehicle at a stop. Damage to torque converter clutch may result.

  1. Accelerate vehicle to 55 mph and allow vehicle to upshift into third gear. Hold speed steady and depress the TCC switch.

    Does the converter engage? Does the engine RPM drop?

    Did the TCC (CCO) solenoid activate/deactivate?

    NOTE: Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) was formerly called Converter Clutch Override (CCO).

Removing the Transmission Tester and Clearing DTCs

 CAUTION: Do not attempt to pry off connectors with a screwdriver. This will damage the connector and could result in a transmission concern.

  1. Disconnect transmission tester from the transmission connector.
  1. Reinstall vehicle wiring harnesses. Verify connection by pulling up on the harness.
  1. Reinstall all heat shields that were previously removed.
  1. Disconnect transmission tester power lead from vehicle.
  1. Erase all diagnostic trouble codes using the procedures in the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual. (Unlatch center button of STAR Tester while codes are being displayed on a KOEO On-Board Diagnostic.)
  1. Rerun EEC-IV On-Board Diagnostics to receive a pass code (11 or 111).
  1. Verify that the customer concern has been eliminated.