Chrysler 42LE

Transmission general data

The 4-speed automatic transmission A606 is a modification of the A604 designed for FWD vehicles with a longitudinally positioned engine. It was designed in a couple of years after the release of its predecessor А604 (in 1993), and after two years of testing this model hit the market. In 1998, one more upgrade of this transmission was introduced with enhancement of the Reverse package and rings. According to athe new classification of Chrysler, the name of this automatic transmission (after 2003) was 42LE and this modification gained popularity.

Technical issues and repair guidelines

This transmission is intended for engines with the capacity up to 3.5 liters. Many parts for this transmission are interchangeable with components from the А604. It was installed on Dodge, Chrysler, Mercury with 3 - 3.5 liter engines. A new differential and a chain were added.

Repair kits of gaskets and seals for A606 are not interchangeable with the one used for the A604. These kits are ordered almost for each repair and replacement of worn-out rings and overheated, hardened or cracked seals. Kits of friction components are universal and can be used for both transmissions. They are fully replaced, if burnt ATF reaches worn-out friction linings.The main problem of the electric part in both transmissions is the same – clogged valve body and block of solenoids. The block of solenoids for the A606 is reassembled with the use of repair kit (from the overhaul kit).

- RPM sensors are replaced

- Switch is replaced frequently (problem is caused by overheating.

Transmission components in “old” cars with the mileage higher than 200 thousand kilometers can not endure loads – in cars with powerful engines the following parts are replaced:

- Planetary gear

- Hub for frictions with a sun gear, (2-4 Hub w/Sun Gear).

- Hub for frictions (A604 Hub,Overdrive Clutch)

Steel discs burn together with friction clutches of the package Overdrive. Then burns their piston. The reason of this problem lies in the block of solenoids or worn-out bushings leading to the oil starvation in the package OD. Another typical problem of American automatic transmissions is the torque converter, which is very sensitive to even the slightest oil shortage. The planned rebuilding of the torque converter shouldn’t be postponed, if it is need.