Valve Body Rebuild
So I had my transmission not going into 4th until shut off/turn on which guessing it had to do with solenoids, which then also had a problem with shifting in 1/2 gear position where it immediately shifted to 2nd until 30 mph and higher which once I let off it shifted down to 1st gear no matter the speed/rpm and then it all became a problem when I was going and then suddenly every gear was neutral but then it came back after sitting. After talking to a friend and chasing any external problem we could think to chase, we've concluded it's the valve body(if you have any other thoughts please let me know). But basically the next step is I'm going to drop the pan and check for metal and then from there but we are fairly certain that were going to end up taking out and servicing the valve body, does any one have any tips on how to do it and what parts I need to buy. Also are there any modifications I can make while Its apart to improve the transmission/efficiency/longevity(Noticed Transgo shift kit and want the ability to lock it into first gear)
Probably the greatest value is being able to hold 1st gear which can be useful for crawling or technical climbs. I think it also increases the line pressure which makes for better holding power but also firmer shifts.
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Joined: Dec 2024
Posts: 293
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From: United States
Year: 2021
Model: Cherokee (XJ)
Sure. Your plan is solid.
Drop the pan and look for metal. If it's clean, the valve body is the likely culprit.
Buy: A full solenoid pack, a new filter, a valve body gasket kit, and the correct fluid.
While it's out: Install a Transgo shift kit. It will improve shift quality and longevity. It can also be set up to allow you to hold first gear manually.
Big Tip: Take pictures before disconnecting anything and note where any check ***** go. Clean everything meticulously.
Drop the pan and look for metal. If it's clean, the valve body is the likely culprit.
Buy: A full solenoid pack, a new filter, a valve body gasket kit, and the correct fluid.
While it's out: Install a Transgo shift kit. It will improve shift quality and longevity. It can also be set up to allow you to hold first gear manually.
Big Tip: Take pictures before disconnecting anything and note where any check ***** go. Clean everything meticulously.
Sure. Your plan is solid.
Drop the pan and look for metal. If it's clean, the valve body is the likely culprit.
Buy: A full solenoid pack, a new filter, a valve body gasket kit, and the correct fluid.
While it's out: Install a Transgo shift kit. It will improve shift quality and longevity. It can also be set up to allow you to hold first gear manually.
Big Tip: Take pictures before disconnecting anything and note where any check ***** go. Clean everything meticulously.
Drop the pan and look for metal. If it's clean, the valve body is the likely culprit.
Buy: A full solenoid pack, a new filter, a valve body gasket kit, and the correct fluid.
While it's out: Install a Transgo shift kit. It will improve shift quality and longevity. It can also be set up to allow you to hold first gear manually.
Big Tip: Take pictures before disconnecting anything and note where any check ***** go. Clean everything meticulously.
is there a special gasket kit to go with the transgo kit or do I just use an oem style gasket?
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Member


Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 209
Likes: 18
From: Plymouth, England
Year: 1998
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 I6
Following this with interest - I'm planning on taking my valve body out soon too.
Mine has problem with failing to lock up the torque converter when hot, and I've read that the valves that operates this can wear. Sonnax makes a drop-in repair kit that I've bought and plan to install. It requires the valve body to be removed but not disassembled.
Mine has problem with failing to lock up the torque converter when hot, and I've read that the valves that operates this can wear. Sonnax makes a drop-in repair kit that I've bought and plan to install. It requires the valve body to be removed but not disassembled.
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