September 30, 2005
Anatomy of a Transmission: Oil Flow in the Pump-PR-Converter-Cooler Lube Circuits
Gregg Nader
Ford CD4E and Mazda LA4A-EL transmissions frequently exhibit symptoms of lube failure, harsh shifts and line pressure instability. Wear of the pressure regulator balance circuit (opposite end from spring) creates high line pressure. High line pressure is known to break up parts, but also positions the valve to reduce the flow into converter/cooler circuits. If the vehicle goes into failsafe (no EPC control) the lube circuit can be shut off completely on the OE valve. The OE converter regulator valve shuts off cooler/converter flow at 90-100 psi.
Sonnax oversized pressure regulator and converter regulator valve kit 73840-RK featires a converter regulator valve and PR valve which work together to limit converter pressure, yet ensure flow continues during a failsafe condition.
This kit cannot address the loss of valve control at the converter bypass circuit. Wear at the bypass valve contributes to codes 628, 1740 and related converter slip codes. For information on that repair, see part number 73840-BK.
Reamer kit 73840-RTL is no longer in production but may be available from distributor inventory. F-73840-TL is available for use prior to installing 73840-RK.
Sonnax valve body layouts provide a detailed overview of individual units making it quick and easy to determine what’s available for the specific valve body you’re working on. See all Sonnax valve body layouts.
September 30, 2005
Gregg Nader
October 13, 2022
Maura Stafford