Owners of some 1991-1992 S-trucks with 2.5L engines (RPO L38) and automatic transmissions (4L60) may experience a torsional rattle noise after the Torque Converter Clutch locks up. The condition is usually in the 72- 88 kph (45-55 mph) range and when under light acceleration.
The torsional rattle may be due to incorrect spring rate on the damper springs in the torque converter. The result is a bottoming-out condition in the torque converter damper assembly.
Torsional rattle occurs under the following condition:
1. Vehicle must be in 4th gear.
2. The torque converter clutch must be locked in.
3. The Vehicle speed must be between 45-55 MPH.
4. The Vehicle is under a light acceleration.
Once the condition is created if the rattle/vibration stops when:
1. Light brake application is made (To unlock the TCC), OR
2. The vehicle downshifts to 3rd gear
The Torque Converter must be replaced with a revised Torque Converter (P/N 08686969).
Identification of vehicles can be made by noting the Julian date on the 4L60 automatic transmission. Vehicles with Julian date AFTER 086 are NOT affected.
Part Number Description ------ ----------- 08686969 Torque Converter
For vehicles repaired under warranty use:
Labour Operation: K7020
Labour Time: 2.9 hrs.
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.