Torque converter not locking when warm
Thread Starter
Junior Member


Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 7
Year: 96
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
So I’ve read all the other posts on this topic, lots of good info but most threads are dead. My problem is the torque converter does not lock on the highway as it should around 55mph once the TRANSMISSION reaches 180*. I’ve tested the solenoids and wiring through the gray connector near the dipstick and all seemed Within the 11-15 ohm range and also tested when the temp is up and TC not locking, ohms we’re higher around 16-17. So I dropped the pan and installed all 3 new solenoids from rock auto this morning and still the same problem. Everything shifts fine and TC locks up just not when it’s a little warmer. So I’m afraid it may be just the wiring gone bad.
So to clarify my question is what else could it be causing the TC to not lock when hot? Bad wires? How do I go about replacing the wire? Also I know there are write ups on a diy TC lock up switch but would that switch make it lock when it it warm?
So to clarify my question is what else could it be causing the TC to not lock when hot? Bad wires? How do I go about replacing the wire? Also I know there are write ups on a diy TC lock up switch but would that switch make it lock when it it warm?
So I’ve read all the other posts on this topic, lots of good info but most threads are dead. My problem is the torque converter does not lock on the highway as it should around 55mph once the TRANSMISSION reaches 180*. I’ve tested the solenoids and wiring through the gray connector near the dipstick and all seemed Within the 11-15 ohm range and also tested when the temp is up and TC not locking, ohms we’re higher around 16-17. So I dropped the pan and installed all 3 new solenoids from rock auto this morning and still the same problem. Everything shifts fine and TC locks up just not when it’s a little warmer. So I’m afraid it may be just the wiring gone bad.
So to clarify my question is what else could it be causing the TC to not lock when hot? Bad wires? How do I go about replacing the wire? Also I know there are write ups on a diy TC lock up switch but would that switch make it lock when it it warm?
So to clarify my question is what else could it be causing the TC to not lock when hot? Bad wires? How do I go about replacing the wire? Also I know there are write ups on a diy TC lock up switch but would that switch make it lock when it it warm?
Thread Starter
Junior Member


Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 7
Year: 96
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Yes fluid is clear and red in the upper half of the ok range on the dipstick, and the brake switch works as when the TC is locking up, tapping the brakes will instantly unlock it. Just doesn’t lock up over 180* heat adds resistance and I was thinking it was for sure the solenoids but could the wires to the damn thing. The torque converter itself is also a brand new remanufactured part I recently installed so you may understand why I want to resolve this issue
yes, several have had this problem recently
The only succesful resolution I read was was to clean the connector that is beside the the dipstick (they had code 0740 (I think)
that is not the issue with mine (still not resolved) iin my case the wire reads open and I suspect it is the wire internally
I will have another shot at it in the near future
The only succesful resolution I read was was to clean the connector that is beside the the dipstick (they had code 0740 (I think)
that is not the issue with mine (still not resolved) iin my case the wire reads open and I suspect it is the wire internally
I will have another shot at it in the near future
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Senior Member


Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 559
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From: SE TX
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
In normal acceleration, my XJ up shifts through the first 3 gears and then at app. 45mph it feels like it shift one more time with subsequent rpm drop....that is the TC locking up.
I don't notice it unlocking in normal driving.
I do notice when it when it is not locking up and is taking a crap load more rpms to do the same speeds as I am used to

So far, cleaning the contacts has worked for me for about 125 miles over the last 2 weeks. Don't drive the XJ as much since I got a new Z71 with the 3.0 Duramax!
::CF Moderator::
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 43,971
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From: Prescott, Az
Year: 1990
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Complete Tip 10 at www.cruiser54.com. Adjust the TV cable. Make sure you are using Dex/Merc ATF. Not the MOPAR ATF+4 stuff.
Thread Starter
Junior Member


Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 36
Likes: 7
Year: 96
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Engine: 4.0
Think I may just install the TC lockup activation switch and hope that works.
https://www.google.com/amp/s/emerald...up-switch/amp/
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