Q: How do I disconnect wiring from the transaxle and transfer case, and perform other steps for transaxle removal?
A: To remove the air filter duct and filter housing, disconnect all wiring from the transmission assembly and transfer case, including ground wires, transmission range switch, transmission speed sensors, and transmission control module. Disconnect the Shift Cable from the shift lever on the transmission assembly and remove the cable from the bracket. Disconnect the transmission cooler lines and plug and cap the lines and openings. Disconnect any transmission or transfer case vent tubes. Install an engine support fixture and connect the chains to the lifting brackets on top of the engine. Remove the uppermost transmission-to-engine mounting bolts. Loosen the front wheel lug nuts and raise the front of the vehicle. Drain the transmission fluid and remove the front wheels and inner fender splash shields. Remove the frame brace, disconnect the oxygen sensors, and remove the flexible exhaust pipe. On AWD models, remove the driveshaft. Remove the subframe and driveaxles. On FWD models, remove the intermediate shaft and transmission-to-engine brace. On AWD models, remove the transfer case. Remove the transmission mount and bracket, and the starter. Remove the torque converter bolts through the starter opening. Support the transmission with a jack and remove the driveplate inspection cover on FWD models. Remove the lowermost transmission-to-engine bolts and lower the transmission until it can be safely set on the ground. For installation, ensure the torque converter is properly engaged with the transmission, align match marks on the driveplate and torque converter, replace the steering shaft pinch bolt, install all drive plate-to-torque converter nuts before tightening, tighten all bolts to the specified torque, replace O-rings, tighten subframe bolts and wheel lug nuts, fill the transmission with the correct fluid, and adjust the shift cable.
Q: What is the importance of referring automatic transaxle problems to a dealer service department or qualified repair facility?
A: In the event of a problem occurring, it will be necessary to establish whether the fault is electrical, mechanical, or hydraulic in nature before repair work can be contemplated. Diagnosis requires detailed knowledge of the transmission assembly's operation and construction, as well as access to specialized test equipment, and so is deemed to be beyond the scope. It is therefore essential that problems with the transmission assembly are sent to a dealer service department or other qualified repair facility for assessment.