1994 940 Non-Turbo Not Shifting into Overdrive

dzarovit · Post by **dzarovit** » 07 Dec 2011, 21:07

I know there have been tons of posts relevant to this topic, but I poured through them as best I could and could not find a previous thread to suit my needs.

The car has about 165000 miles on it. Recently, I have replaced the alternator, as the voltage regulator was not working properly. I continue to have the SRS voltage check light when I start the car, but when I rev the engine to about 1500 rpm the light shuts off. About 3 years ago, at about 155000 miles, I blew a head gasket and had that damage all repaired. The radiator was replaced at that time, too.

About two months ago, while I was driving, the car stopped engaging the overdrive. The first occurrence happened mid-trip, where the car shifted into overdrive at the beginning of the trip, but then ceased to shift into overdrive later in the trip.

I have replaced the overdrive relay in hopes that this would fix the problem. However, it did not. I don't normally do parts switching like that when I don't know the problem, but it was an easy option that did not require much attention.

I have read several things about the solenoid and the kickdown cable. I'm wondering if this is where I need to look next. I'm relatively new to car repairs. I have the Chilton Repair Manual, a voltmeter, and all the common wrenches you would need to do basic work. I do not have any advanced/power tools for working on my car.

How do I check the kickdown cable? Where will it be located on the vehicle?

How do I check the overdrive solenoid? Where is the overdrive solenoid located on the vehicle?

Please feel free to include any additional information you would think pertinent. Thank you.

Post by **billofdurham** » 08 Dec 2011, 12:24

Before hitting the kickdown cable check that you have 12v at the solenoid. Usually there is no need to get down and dirty to do this as the solenoid makes a very distinctive click when it engages/disengages. With the door open you should be able to hear it. If there is no click then it is possible there is a wiring problem. Check the connector at the solenoid for a good fit - they can come loose, especially if the wiring has been moved at any time. Check that the connector is good and clean especially where the wire joins the connector. Corrosion here can reduce the power passing to the solenoid. Also check the wiring near to the gear shift for breaks which could give an intermittent problem when everything warms up.

To test the solenoid with an ohmmeter check between the terminal on the solenoid and its body. If the resistance is not 13 ohms replace it.

The link to replacing the solenoid makes it sound very easy. however, most people have trouble getting tools onto the two bolts that hold the solenoid in place. The easy way to do this job is to support the transmission on a jack, protected by a block of wood, and removing the cross member supporting the box.

If you find the solenoid does need replacing post back for more information.

For checking and adjusting the kickdown cable see the attached.

940 kickdown cable adjustment.pdf: (231.26 KiB) Downloaded 417 times

Bill.

dzarovit · Post by **dzarovit** » 08 Dec 2011, 19:40

Ok, thanks guys. I think I'm versed in what I need to do. However, I'm a bit lost as to where I physically begin. Where do I get access to the OD solenoid? A diagram would be helpful. Like I said, I'm new to repairs, and I just don't know where to go to find a diagram to get started on this.

Post by **billofdurham** » 09 Dec 2011, 12:09

This should help.

940 overdrive solenoid check.pdf: (472.42 KiB) Downloaded 469 times

The gear shift linkage passes in front of the solenoid.

Bill.

RBH · Post by **RBH** » 10 Dec 2011, 22:55

Before digging into anything major you may wish to double check the relay situation. If you have access to another car in which to test the replacement relay you could establish that it works, or failing that, remove the cover and inspect the contacts and solder joints. I have had the situation where I replaced a bad relay with another that I didn't know was also bad. I did a lot of unneccessary work before the idea of testing in another car occurred to me. Good luck.

Bob

dzarovit · Post by **dzarovit** » 13 Dec 2011, 09:47

Haven't had a chance to work on the car since the start of the topic...Final exams week for school. Should have some free time later this week though. I'll post an update then. Thank you all for your input.