SLIPS IN LOW/REVERSE NO REVERSE-REPLACE LOW CLUTCH

SUBJECT: SLIPS IN LOW/REVERSE-NO REVERSE (DIAGNOSE/REPLACE LOW/REVERSE CLUTCH)

MODELS AFFECTED: 1986-1988 CIMARRONS

Some 1986-1988 Cimarrons equipped with Hydra-Matic 3T40 transaxles may exhibit symptoms associated with wear in the low/reverse clutch pack. These symptoms are:

- Transaxle slips in manual low or reverse gears - Transaxle inoperative in reverse gear

Cause (Refer to Figure 1):

If this condition exists (and upon inspection of the low/reverse components) and it is noted that the piston outer lip seal is cut due to piston over travel, this over travel could possibly cause flattening of the low/reverse release spring (655) and deflection of the low/reverse clutch spring retainer (656).

Correction:

----------- Proper diagnosis for either of the above symptoms should be performed prior to attempted repair for any condition. Diagnosis should include checking:

- Fluid levels - TV cable adjustment - Fluid pressure - Manual valve secured - Low/reverse pipe not bent, washer seal/O-ring secured, pipe brackets tight - Low/reverse piston seals uncut and properly installed - No loose retainers - Cup plug seal properly installed (not cut) - Backing plate in proper location - Driven sprocket support Teflon seals - Direct clutch seals

If the above diagnosis is performed and further repair is required, install the low/reverse clutch components listed below. Include the replacement of the low/reverse release spring (655), clutch spring retainer (656), and piston snap ring (657) as part of total repair. Refer to Figure 1.

Service Parts Information:

Service Part Name/Service Package Package Number ------------------------- -------------- Low/Reverse Clutch Release Spring (655) 8628222 Low/Reverse Clutch Retainer and Snap Ring (656/657) 8664961

These service packages are currently available from GMSPO.

Refer to the "Automatic Transaxle Diagnosis/Unit Repair" Section of your Service Information Manual for necessary low/reverse clutch diagnostic and repair information.

For warranty purposes use Labor Operation K7580 at 6.1 hours with any necessary additions.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.