Bad TCC Selenoid?

[NVRL8]

Can a bad tcc selenoid force the converter to remain locked? My car drives like the converter is always locked up. The brake test does not unlock the converter and RPM's don't rise. When I flip the manual lockup switch I can't hear the selenoid click, but am not sure if I should be able to. I was listening with my head under the trans. The problem only seems to occur after the trans is at operating temp. Car gets real jerky and sometimes shifts to early. Shifts are ok when you hammer on it, but are hard. TV cable is adjusted properly. I wanna get this resolved before shift kit install. Please bear with me as my lack of experience shows through.

 

[mikestertwo]

Sounds like the tcc solenoid is bad. You can't hear the solenoid lock. You have the classic symptoms of a bad solenoid, sticking closed when the trans gets warm. Replace it. It's cheap and easy to do.

 

[NVRL8]

Thanks for the fast response! Car has 64,000 on it. Is it common for the selenoid to go at that mileage?

 

[mikestertwo]

It's more of a matter of age and wear in the transmission. The solenoid is magnetic when energized and it pulls metal in from the wear on the steels in the clutch packs and the wear on the direct clutch drum from the band. It eventually builds up on the armature of the solenoid causing it to stick closed, especially when it is warm.

 

[Steve V]

My Gn had 55,900 on it when I bought it. That's the 1st issue I had with it I changed the fluid,added a chip wth 4th gear lock up only and no sticking issue anymore.

 

[MeanBuicks]

I too subscribe to the age theory. A few years back I replaced a bum TCC solenoid in an 8000-mile GNX. It was acting just like yours.

 

[NVRL8]

Thanks guys for the help. Looks like I'll be changing it out.