Transmission Fluid Leak, Inoperative 2nd/3rd/4th Gears, No Movement, Case Cracked or Broken at 2-4 Servo (Repair Transmission and Install New Retaining Ring)

This bulletin is being revised to add the Corvette and GTO models and to include the 4L65-E transmission. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 04-07-30-025 (Section 07 - Transmission/Transaxle).

Some customers may comment on a transmission leak, inoperative 2nd/4th gear, slipping 3rd/4th gear or no movement due to excess fluid loss.

This condition normally occurs at low mileage, usually under 1,600 km (1,000 mi), and investigation may show that the servo cover is loose or that the transmission case is cracked or broken at the servo bore.

This condition may be caused by a servo cover retaining ring that did not retain the servo cover.

The servo retaining ring design was changed for the 2004 MY from round wire to wire with two flat faces.

In mid-April, 2004, the retaining ring design did revert back to a round design in production.

It is possible that the transmission case may crack at the servo cover area due to the retaining ring being incorrectly seated.

Important: 

•	In mid-April, 2004, the retaining ring design did revert back to a round design in production.

•	If the transmission fluid level has lowered due to loss of fluid, it is possible that damaged 3/4 clutches will result.

•	A cracked or broken case may usually be repaired at a significantly lower cost than transmission assembly replacement by replacing the case and any damaged clutches or bands.

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Inspect the transmission case around the servo cover for signs of cracks or damage to the case.

•	If the transmission case is cracked or damaged, replace the transmission case. Refer to the appropriate SI Document for Transmission Case Replacement.

•	If the servo cover is leaking and the case is not damaged, continue with the next step.

3. Remove the front exhaust pipe assembly. Refer to the appropriate SI Document.
4. Remove the heat shield if equipped. Refer to the appropriate SI Document.
5. Clean the servo cover area with Brake Clean and shop air.



6. Install the J 29714-A.
7. Compress the servo cover with J 29714-A.

Important: Flat-faced servo cover retaining rings that have been removed when servicing a transmission for any reason should not be re-used.

8. Remove the servo cover retaining ring.
9. Install the new round wire servo cover ring, P/N 24232065.
10. Remove J 29714-A.
11. Clean the servo cover area with Brake Clean and shop air.
12. Lower the vehicle.
13. Fill the transmission to the proper level with DEXRON® III transmission fluid. Refer to the appropriate SI Document.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: