Rep Power: 0

I'm having a serious issue with the automatic transmission for my 1998 Civic LX (161k miles, trans rebuilt at 86K). The issue isn't that the trans is slipping (like most trans issues) but that the car has to be driven like a manual, I'll explain.

Place the trans into Drive and the car will run and idle correctly but if you don't apply enough throttle the car will lurch and the engine will stall abruptly, violently.

When you give enough throttle, the car will go forward and shift as normal but has the car starts to slow down (getting ready to stop for a red light) you would need the place the trans into Neutral or the car will lurch and engine will die abruptly. Like the trans is causing the engine to stop rotating.

It acts as though the torque converter has gone bad, any other explanation?

Thanks!!

 
Rep Power: 518

Torque converter clutch is stuck on/applied?

The short version might be to determine if this is an electrical problem or a stuck lockup solenoid problem, because these might be resolved without a ton of work (pulling the trans out).

If no, then it's an internal issue that will require removal and probably teardown.

A service manual, a wiring diagram, voltmeter, some pressure gauges and a lot of testing might be the next steps.....You could determine if the TCC is being engaged or not through pressure testing to determine if it is faulty or good.



Does the fluid smell ugly? (burned)

 
Rep Power: 0

The transfluid doesn't smell burnt but isn't bright red either. I have a Chilton's book that should provide a little insight. Do you happen to know the readings that I should get from the TCC off the voltmeter?

Thanks!

 
Rep Power: 518

Make sure you get the correct solenoids when you test!


2 wires, one for each solenoid in the set.
Wire colors green/black, and yellow


Between ground and either wire, 12-25 ohm

Apply 12v+ (briefly) to each wire, you should hear it click the solenoid.


Wire(s) continuity between computer and solenoids should be no resistance
And no continuity to ground on either wire.

Standard stuff there.

Not sure what you'd see if you try to test it driving down the road....

 
Rep Power: 0

Excellent info, Thanks!
That will at least give me a starting point to work from at this point.
Fingers crossed is something sorta simple and not a rebuild / replacement.

I'll post my findings this weekend.

 
Rep Power: 0

Sadly the end result was a rebuild of the automatic trans. The good news is that the Ol' Girl is running again!

Thanks for the help!

 
Rep Power: 0

My wife just got a used Civic and it wants to try to jerk and 'carry on' at stopping (after warm-up) The car has been sitting up for a while and the previous said they were not aware of any trans problems.
Any ideas?