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Scotty
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Member #77 |
 Posted - 09/11/2006 : 3:52:11 PM
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Since I bought my 88' 4runner a few weeks ago, I have been having some periodic shifting problems with it. Its been getting worse as of late though, so I started looking for answers on the web. Anyway, take a look at what I have been able to find out and diagnose with the help of several sites and forums.
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My problems started about 3 weeks ago. One day on the way home from work, I pulled up to a stop light a few blocks from my house. When the light turned green, I hit the pedal and found that my automatic tranmission was stuck in 3rd gear. I immediately turned into the closet parking lot fearing the worst. To boot, my OD light was blinking at me. Quickly, I shifted it into park. Then went ahead and tried it again and it shifted normally. Well, each of the next two days it happened in the exact same spot, but not any other time. But, since then it is now becoming more apparent. So, I immediately decided that I needed to find out what was going on.
After searching online for pretty much a full day this is what I have come up with. The A340 uses three solenoids that help control the shift points on the transmission. These solenoids can go bad over time causing the tranny to shift erratically, or in my case not at all. Other areas of concern include the Vehicle Speed Sensor(there actually two of these), and the Throttle Position Sensor. During my research I came across several websites that provide a wealth of knowledge that is needed when trying to diagnose these problems.
By far, the most helpful is the following website that will allow you to open certain sections of the FSM regarding these transmissions.
http://personal.utulsa.edu/~nathan-buchanan/93fsm/autotrans.html
Also keep in mind that the A340 transmission is basically the same the AW4 that is found in Jeep Cherokees, so one would think that these FSM pages would also work for those people having issues with their AW4s.
AFAIK, the following transmission codes represent what tranny you have.
*A340F are found in 4wd 4runners and trucks that have the 2.4L 22RE 4cyl motors.
*A340H are found in 4wd 4runners and trucks that have the 3.0L 3VZ-E
V6 motors.
*A340E are found in 2wd 4runners and trucks that have the 3.0L 3VZ-E V6 motors.
All of these(except the 2wd versions) have an integrated chain driven transfer case that gives a 2.56:1 gear reduction in 4lo.
For Basic Troubleshooting of these transmissions go here:
http://personal.utulsa.edu/~nathan-buchanan/93fsm/autotrans/43basictro.pdf
And for General troubleshooting of these transmissions go here:
http://personal.utulsa.edu/~nathan-buchanan/93fsm/autotrans/44generalt.pdf br /
Directions for pulling codes for the "Overdrive" light on the center console:
http://personal.utulsa.edu/~nathan-buchanan/93fsm/autotrans/45diagnosi.pdf
Translating the Codes:
Code 42: Defective No.1 vehicle speed sensor(in combination meter) - severed wire harness or short circuit
Code 61: Defective No.2 vehicle speed sensor(in ATM) - severed wire harness or short circuit
Code 62: Severed No.1 solenoid or short circuit - severed wire harness or short circuit
Code 63: Severed No.2 solenoid or short circuit - severed wire harness or short circuit
Code 64: Severed lock-up solenoid or short circuit - severed wire harness or short circuit
In order to reset the Diagnostic trouble code, remove the MFI fuse located on the passenger side inner fender:
A/T Shift Schedule
During my search, I was also able to locate a couple of sources for much cheaper replacement Solenoids for the A340. Considering that Toyota charges upwards of $150/ea for these, this is a bargain. You want kit #97420K below:
http://www.bulkpart.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=2&Category_Code=A340solenoid br /
Or, you can contact:
Axiom Automotive Technologies
1360 Ingleside Rd.
Norfolk, VA 23502
800-622-6997
(kit#97420K)
I believe these solenoids to be my major malfunction in my own A340 transmission and will be ordering a kit myself to install in my tranny. Also keep in mind that this install can be done while the tranny is still in the vehicle. It is a good idea to replace the fluid and filter at the same time.
Good luck with your diagnosis!
Dual Transfer case options for the A340.
There is really only one option for getting a dual case setup behind the A340 tranmission to date.
Inchworm makes the only adapter available for the A340.
Taken from Inchworm's site:
"It allows the use of Inchworm Double Transfer Case Adapters and Geared Cases behind factory automatic transmissions. Clockability allows stock rotation or up 10 degrees for added ground clearance. This adapter requires the use of a 23 spline input shaft.
This adapter does require a complete tear down of the factory automatic transfer case as well as some small part changing inside the transmission. Installation is available."
Link to their site
http://www.inchwormgear.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=86
You will also need their 23 spline input shaft(which is a great upgrade anyway).
http://www.inchwormgear.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=33
Then from there you can take your pick of using which gearing with the dual cases you would like.
Transfer Case options for the A340
While Toyota Tcase options are limited behind the A340, there is one more option that may appeal to you.
Jeep AW4s are basically the same at the A340, but with one major difference. They DO NOT have an integrated transfer case like the A340 does. The AW4 also has the removable bellhousing, so you can bolt a Toyota bellhousing to the AW4 for use in a Toyota chassis. So, that means that if you used the Jeep AW4 in a toyota, you have the option of going with other transfer cases. Two of which are the Dana 300, and the Atlas II transfer cases. Both of these cases offer a twin stick option to allow yourself the ability to disengage the front and rear axles for use on the trail. The Dana 300 offers a 2.62:1 gearing reduction in stock form, or the ability to get a 4:1 gearing option with either TeraLow gears from Teraflex or LowMax gears from Novak Adapters. The Atlas II offers the option of 3.0:1, 3.8:1, 4.3:1, or 5:1 sets.
The Dana 300 option would require a 5/8" spacer that you can buy from Novak Adapters. This adapter also allows you to clock the Dana 300 almost flat for more ground clearance. It also gives you the option of not needing to pull the rear driveshaft when flat towing, because the output bearing would now be riding in the gear oil in the Tcase.
Link to adapter with Novak:
http://www.novak-adapt.com/catalog/kit_153_aw4.htm
AFAIK, there is no adapter required when using the Atlas transfer case with the Jeep AW4.
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Scotty
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 09/12/2006 : 09:41:24 AM
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Wanting a manual transmission option with your A340???
BrettM has designed a way to turn your A340 into a manual transmission of sorts. With the purchase of his kit, you will have the ability to manual shift through your gears just like a manual tranmission. There are numerous shifter options, and you will still have the ability to resort back to normal automatic transmission function when needed with the simple switch or push of the button. For more information on this. Visit Brett's site:
www.AWshifting.com
Shifters are available for both the A340 and the Jeep AW4 tranmissions.
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Scotty
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 09/26/2006 : 08:27:52 AM
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| So, last weekend I finally got around to installing the new Solenoids into my A340. It was really a simple install. Just removed the pan, unscrewed the three 10mm bolts that hold the three solenoids in place, installed the new ones, reinstalled the pan, and filled the tranny again. Poof, no more slipping and no more issues. Been driving it this week with no problems what-so-ever. |
Scotty
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firedawg
Still looking for 4 Low
1 Posts
Member #10528 |
Posted - 03/13/2007 : 12:37:33 AM
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| Sorry, I know I'm just new here but I've got a code 42 on my 1990 4runner 22re. It drives fine but on the highway, after about 60 miles of so it slips out of O/D. If I shut it off and let it sit for awhile after clearing the codes, it's fine again until I do some more highway driving. Now you mentioned the speed sensor (in the combination meter) at the risk of sounding stupid, where the heck is that? the dash? Please explain as I really need to fix this. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks alot. |
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 03/13/2007 : 06:42:04 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by firedawg
Sorry, I know I'm just new here but I've got a code 42 on my 1990 4runner 22re. It drives fine but on the highway, after about 60 miles of so it slips out of O/D. If I shut it off and let it sit for awhile after clearing the codes, it's fine again until I do some more highway driving. Now you mentioned the speed sensor (in the combination meter) at the risk of sounding stupid, where the heck is that? the dash? Please explain as I really need to fix this. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks alot.
Speed sensor will be on the Tranny/Tcase. Its what your speedo line runs into that senses how fast you are going. |
Scotty
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driverofmarla
Still looking for 4 Low
USA
1 Posts
Member #10710 |
Posted - 08/05/2007 : 10:29:08 AM
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Thanks so much scotty for posting this topic and the information. I have been having the same problem with my 4runner, and could not figure out the diagnosis. You post really helped, especially the one on the site to buy the solenoids. I hope to have my 4runner as good as new by the end of the week.
Thanks again for the help. |
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 08/05/2007 : 2:46:38 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by driverofmarla
Thanks so much scotty for posting this topic and the information. I have been having the same problem with my 4runner, and could not figure out the diagnosis. You post really helped, especially the one on the site to buy the solenoids. I hope to have my 4runner as good as new by the end of the week.
Thanks again for the help.
Glad I could help.  |
Scotty
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R.DesJardin
Still looking for 4 Low
USA
1 Posts
Member #10891 |
Posted - 12/25/2007 : 6:28:51 PM
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I just finished my own Toyota A340 trans shift system. I have a steering wheel mount two button setup for full manual operation. I hope to add to the program to be able have automatic shift as an option. Although with the steering wheel buttons it's easy to shift.
[http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj121/RDengtech/Interior1.jpg[/IMG] |
Rory D.
"If I didn't live in the middle of nowhere!" |
Edited by - R.DesJardin on 12/25/2007 6:44:28 PM |
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sdhorner
Still looking for 4 Low
22 Posts
Member #10759 |
Posted - 01/17/2008 : 07:11:17 AM
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| This thread and fsm has been a car saver for me too. My 90 shows code for #2solenoid and #2speed sensor . I also quick shifts into 3rd. Thanks Scotty. I found a core at the yard and practiced removal. I got 3 solenoids for 6o$ to run tests on but the speed sensor seemed to be glued to the case by heat and broke off, scary. I'm glad I tried that on a core first. On mine I think I will put continuity tester and pins in the wires then spin the wheel. Dwight |
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sdhorner
Still looking for 4 Low
22 Posts
Member #10759 |
Posted - 02/04/2008 : 10:25:23 PM
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been driving on a used #2 solenoid for weeks now and the tranny still runs like new with 170K. These seem like great trannys and helps my faith back in toyota engineering. |
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bubbykinz
Still looking for 4 Low
3 Posts
Member #11007 |
Posted - 02/06/2008 : 08:33:16 AM
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| Newbie here ... I have a problem with my a340h. I start the 4runner up and it all works fine, but after a couple of minutes, the transmission starts to slip and then a few seconds later, it will not move at all. If I turn off the engine and let things "settle" for a minute or two, the process will repeat. Fluid level is good ... just changed fluid and filter. Thanks in advance. |
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 02/06/2008 : 3:28:24 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by bubbykinz
Newbie here ... I have a problem with my a340h. I start the 4runner up and it all works fine, but after a couple of minutes, the transmission starts to slip and then a few seconds later, it will not move at all. If I turn off the engine and let things "settle" for a minute or two, the process will repeat. Fluid level is good ... just changed fluid and filter. Thanks in advance.
Are you checking the fluid when the truck is warm and in Neutral?
Was it doing it before the flush and filter? |
Scotty
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bubbykinz
Still looking for 4 Low
3 Posts
Member #11007 |
Posted - 02/06/2008 : 3:48:16 PM
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| Yes, it was doing that before the change ... I'm checking the fluid in park after warm up ... I'll try neutral. |
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 02/07/2008 : 6:25:18 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by bubbykinz
Yes, it was doing that before the change ... I'm checking the fluid in park after warm up ... I'll try neutral.
Nuetral is how you do it, but if its slipping that badly, I would guess a severe problem. Is the OD light blinking a code at all? |
Scotty
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bubbykinz
Still looking for 4 Low
3 Posts
Member #11007 |
Posted - 02/07/2008 : 7:16:26 PM
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| Fluid is good in neutral ... no codes ... blinks steady every second when I test. |
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 02/09/2008 : 7:59:57 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by bubbykinz
Fluid is good in neutral ... no codes ... blinks steady every second when I test.
Sounds like a bad tranny to tell you the truth. It may just need a rebuild or a new one. You can usually get them really cheap online and used. |
Scotty
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bgoforth
Still looking for 4 Low
USA
2 Posts
Member #11051 |
Posted - 02/19/2008 : 11:22:26 AM
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Hello guys,
I have an '85 4Runner 22 REC with 300K+ miles on it and the tranny A340 has recently started acting up. I had to have a torque converter a while back but now it shifts really fast through the gears and does not downshift when you mash the gas. I have looked at the great info on troubleshooting but I can't seem to locate the diagnostic connector. I assume it is an A340-F since it is a 22-R but there is no neutral on the T-case and there is a small drain pan with drain plug on the T-case. The diagrams show it is over by the fusebox under the hood but I cannot see it there, Help?
Thanks! |
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nhughes
Still looking for 4 Low
7 Posts
Member #12179 |
Posted - 06/27/2009 : 5:25:53 PM
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 Wow! Someone with the same problem I am having! I just wondered if you ever figured out the cause of you premature shifting and no "kick-down". I just got mine on the road after buying it Engine-less and the trans is in 3rd by 15-20 miles per hour and it will never downshift from o/d-4, 4-3, 3-2 or 2-L when I "mash the gas". Only way to drop gears to make any power at speed requires turning o/d off on the highway at 55+.
I hope you found the problem, cause I know it's annoying coming out of a corner at 20 mph in 3rd gear, plus I could use an experienced opinion. |
86 22rtec 4x4 slightly modified, stolen, and recovered. |
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Scotty
Admin
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Member #77 |
Posted - 06/27/2009 : 6:47:11 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by nhughes
Wow! Someone with the same problem I am having! I just wondered if you ever figured out the cause of you premature shifting and no "kick-down". I just got mine on the road after buying it Engine-less and the trans is in 3rd by 15-20 miles per hour and it will never downshift from o/d-4, 4-3, 3-2 or 2-L when I "mash the gas". Only way to drop gears to make any power at speed requires turning o/d off on the highway at 55+.
I hope you found the problem, cause I know it's annoying coming out of a corner at 20 mph in 3rd gear, plus I could use an experienced opinion.
Its the shift solenoids. Its an easy fix, but does require dropping the pan. |
Scotty
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nhughes
Still looking for 4 Low
7 Posts
Member #12179 |
Posted - 06/28/2009 : 10:36:00 PM
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| all 3 of them? |
86 22rtec 4x4 slightly modified, stolen, and recovered. |
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Scotty
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Member #77 |
Posted - 06/29/2009 : 3:13:52 PM
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| Yes. Its safe insurance. I'll bet two of the three are bad or going bad. And, its basically the same cost to buy two separately as it is all three in a kit. |
Scotty
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nhughes
Still looking for 4 Low
7 Posts
Member #12179 |
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nhughes
Still looking for 4 Low
7 Posts
Member #12179 |
Posted - 06/29/2009 : 10:06:37 PM
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| Is it at all possible that @ 291,000 miles the "Shift Plug" is gunked up and sticking? - I am curious about "sea foam" brand "Trans Tune" like many others, so I've noticed... |
86 22rtec 4x4 slightly modified, stolen, and recovered. |
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chriskatana
Still looking for 4 Low
USA
1 Posts
Member #12251 |
Posted - 07/07/2009 : 4:44:35 PM
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I'm having an issue shifting out of first.. it shifts very late no matter how hard i press the gas. usuaually around 3500 rpm and when it does shift, it takes a second, sags, then bumps into gear.
I disconnected the solenoids and the problem stayed. I did the Stall test using the dash tach and it revs to 2200 in both drive and reverse. so that's indicating the torque converter. I just here looking to verify that or get some advice on what else to check. I don't have a gauge to do the line pressure test.
After reconnecting the solenoids i took it back out and trie manually shifting through the gears.
Shifting from d1 to d2 i find that 2nd gear doesn't function at all, it just slips, shifting to D the trans shifts into 3rd then to OD as it should.
Oh yeah, I checked the fluid, it's full and clean.
Thanks,
Chris |
1994 4 runner v6 4wd Auto |
Edited by - chriskatana on 07/07/2009 7:22:59 PM |
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nhughes
Still looking for 4 Low
7 Posts
Member #12179 |
Posted - 07/16/2009 : 7:18:46 PM
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| Is the ect reliant on the ecu in the 86 a340f for ANY data what-so-ever? I am no longer running the factory ECU in my truck, but it does still have the AT/ect. I'm hesitant to believe it to be the solenoid/s, based of course upon ignorance, and the underlying fact I'd rather spend money on A/C here in PHX, AZ. |
86 22rtec 4x4 slightly modified, stolen, and recovered. |
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Scotty
Admin
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Member #77 |
Posted - 07/17/2009 : 06:30:16 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by nhughes
Is the ect reliant on the ecu in the 86 a340f for ANY data what-so-ever? I am no longer running the factory ECU in my truck, but it does still have the AT/ect. I'm hesitant to believe it to be the solenoid/s, based of course upon ignorance, and the underlying fact I'd rather spend money on A/C here in PHX, AZ.
AFAIK, yes and no. It will reply on certain things like a temp sensor to let the tranny know when to shift into OD. When the tranny is too cold, the computer will tell it not to shift into OD until it reaches a certain temp. However, my guess is that being in Phoenix it would rarely ever get cold enough to allow that to happen. |
Scotty
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A340 Transmission issues and FAQs
