Getting a TQ converter solenoid code from the XJ. Can't seem to pull any readings besides the ground off the TCM plug, I have two crappy ohmmeters and I can't get readings off either one besides a ground. It's difficult to get good contact at the terminals with these cheap meters. I tried using some paper clips but it didn't help. I moved to the plug next to the trans dip stick I was able to pull one reading off it and it was in the 18-20 ohms range, which I am pretty sure means the solenoid is bad. But not being able to get any type of readings off these posts is so odd to me. I had a lot of trouble with these ohmmeters during my AC trouble shooting as well. Was a bare to get readings off the PCM plugs. I would assume if there was no readings on any of these plugs the TCM or the connector at the dipstick my transmission wouldn't shift through all the gears in drive? Something isn't adding up. Be it cheap ohmmeters or bad connections. Should I get a new ohmmeter or is something more sinister at play here? Can the transmission shift normally with no readings from any of this stuff? I have my doubts.

I did the brake test at like 50 and the RPMS did not rise at all and also the converter definitely seems like it never locks up when cruising in OD at high speed.

I went ahead an ordered a toyota solenoid kit off ebay and am just going to replace all three and see what happens. Probably would of been cheaper to buy a better ohmmeter.

And to top it off I am pretty sure the flex plate is either loose or cracked. Fun times!

 

Easy enough to check the flexplate. Have you cleaned and measured the solenoid resistance at the harness connection under the hood? There are two connectors for the transmission harness on the passenger side up near the firewall. You might want to clean all the ground connections (www.cruiser54.com).

 

Yeah, I checked em. I could only pull a reading off one of the terminals. I must be doing something wrong. Cleaned up all the grounds, g101 especially. Haven't checked g106 which apparently the TQ converter solenoid is grounded to. Think that's on the driver side above the wheel well. I really need a better ohmmeter any suggestions? Clearly the wiring is working for the other solenoids and I can't get readings off those either from either the TCM or the connectors by the dip stick. ****ty ohmmeters? I dunno.

 

I can only assume you followed these?

 

The solenoids get grounded through the transmission body itself.

 

I need to pull the pan and see what they say down there. I just can't seem to get any readings off my plugs, and I think it's a tool problem and not exactly a wiring problem. But having two bad ohmmeters? Seems like a big coincidence. I have one crappy ohmmeter from harbor freight and another cheap one from home depot. They might both be clapped out.

 

been thru this

operate the vehicle in 3rd...this will make it easier to tell about the TC engagement, as it will engage at ~40mph with light throttle

the plug wires beside the dipstick are the best place to take a reading

my backprobe is a hatpin with wire soldered on, slips into the connector adjacent to wire, no piercing or disconnection required

If your multimeter doesnt read <1 Ohm when shorting the probes, buy another one..they are cheap

You cannot expect to do this work with faulty tools

I suspect the wire between the plug and solenoid is giving me a high reading (125ohms), my TC solenoid works most of the time

 

Yeah it seems like it's working, I don't get any shudder, but it seems weird in OD like it's never fully engaged. I'll take it for a spin in a bit. Definitely need a new decent ohmmeter.

I've got a ford crown vic that I usually daily. That thing has a bad TQ converter and you can absolutely feel how horrible it is. Need to throw some "anti slip" in it. It's basically a throw away car with ice cold ac lol.

 

Fun update. When I put the trans in drive now it acts like it's not in gear. It seems like it is in 3rd or od or something. Basically barely moves and just revs up like it's slipping. But if I put it into 2nd it will go like normal and reverse also works. I need to check all the connections I was messing with. I ordered that solenoid kit for it should be here tomorrow hopefully. Something is not right with this thing.

Read a bunch of other threads about "starting in 3rd gear" and there doesn't seem to be a whole lot of resolved cases... Fun times.

 

If the trans computer has no power or its disconnected, it will trying starting in 4th gear and you'll be able to shift manually with the shifter. Or the #1 solenoid has failed (because 1st gear has just the #1 solenoid engaged).

 

Ooooof I am a huge moron. Left the TCM unplugged.... Gunna replace the solenoids this weekend hopefully that solves the code. At least my transmission isn't blown up. Yet...