Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Trq Converter In & Out, RPM up & Down???

[EBramwell]

I just started having a problem with my torque converter locking and unlocking, back and forth.

Also cruise was working, and now wont set at all? I noticed today while trying to set the cruise that the green light would go out when the torque converter started locking and unlocking.

RPM's are jumping up and down when I place it in Park regardless if AC is on or not.

Could these all be related?



My thoughts for fix is:

1. TPS?

2. Need Noise filter?

3. Both?

 

[LandShark]

Here's a place to start:
Check the ESS (engine speed sensor). If it's intermittent it will cause the cruise control to cut out, cause the tach to flicker, cause the the torque converter to unlock and lock and also cause the alternator to cut in and out, which you may be able to see on the volts meter.

 

[EBramwell]

I took the truck to a auto parts store and had them scan it, TPS High Input Error.

I cleaned the TPS, and it hasen't missed a beat. Temporary fix until I have to bite the bullet and pay for a new one.

 

[mfburns]

As a routine part of the oil changes some folks advise cleaning the TPS connection to avoid this. Seems to work for me.

 

[Missouri Mule]

Some memebers spray contact cleaner into a hole on the side of TPS every oil change.

 

[EBramwell]

I didn't notice any hole on the side of mine? That would be better than taking it off for sure.

 

[mfburns]

DIsconnect the wires at the connector and spray the contact cleaner into the connector holes. Do both sides and then reconnect the coupling. Simple and not to hard to get to. Just something else to do at oil change time. I think the issue is moisture getting into the connection and disrupting the circuit. . Maybe Dielectric grease would be better to sort of seal the connection.

 

[EBramwell]

Well the TPS cleaning did not last long.
I took a look at the throttle assembly the other day, I noticed a lot of play in the torsion spring that connects to the tps. I know that the plastic bushings will wear out so I pulled the whole throttle assembly out. Well I found more problems!
First the bushing are worn thin, #13 no problem to replace.
Second the throttle rod is rusted up pretty bad, and is easily bent, no problem to replace.
Third I remove TPS because I notice excessive play near the inside of the TPS , only to find that the area on the throttle assembly that inserts in the TPS (#19) is worn so badly it needs replaced... problem.
The dealer doesn't sell this piece alone, so you have to buy the entire throttle assembly for $500. 00 big ones. I'm calling salvage yards right now to no avail.

#ad

 

[WilsonF]

Try these links, good reading and might help you out.
https://www.turbodieselregister.com...mission-1994-1998/156901-tps-myth-buster.html

Installing a Potentiometer in place of the TPS - Dodge Diesel - Diesel Truck Resource Forums

Floyd

 

[EBramwell]

Thanks WilsonF, I have been considering the pots but, I am reluctant because others in the family drive this truck and would have no idea what do with it.