All in the Family: Identification & Repair of Chrysler Solenoid Switch Valve Problems

Figure 1	Figure 2
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Because there are no bands, precise fluid control is critical for proper clutch application. In this system, control duties are handled by three primary elements: the solenoid pack, pressure switches and — the subject of this article — the solenoid switch valve. The main function of the switch valve is to direct fluid between the L/R clutch and TCC, but it also directs oil to the 2nd and OD clutches by means of two shuttle valves or “plugs” in the end of the bore. As wear develops in the bore, it is common for the switch valve and plugs to stick, which causes a variety of different symptoms. Among these are:

Figure 3
	Valve Large Spool O.D.	Outer Plugs O.D.
Original Design	0.420"	0.453"
New Design	0.453"	0.453"

While in many cases the wear is obvious (Figure 4), vacuum testing is going to be your best bet in determining when a repair is in order (Figure 5).

The good news is that aftermarket solutions are available to correct the bore and its components; just make sure to measure the switch valve prior to making any repairs. The tooling required to perform this repair depends on properly identifying the large spool diameter of the switch valve. Using the wrong tooling setup can result in wasted time and irreparable damage to the valve body casting.

It’s common to see a few outlaw members in the family tree that need help finding the path of righteousness. In this case however, the problem is easily recognizable, and restoring order to the family is a fairly simple solution. Don’t you wish every family problem could be corrected that way?