Jeep Cherokee (XJ): Gearshift cable. Throttle valve cable. Road testing

Gearshift cable

(1) The floor shifter lever and gate positions should be in alignment with all transmission PARK, NEUTRAL, and gear detent positions.

(2) Engine starts must be possible with floor shift lever in PARK or NEUTRAL gate positions only.

Engine starts must not be possible in any other gear position.

(3) With floor shift lever handle push-button not depressed and lever in: (a) PARK position-Apply forward force on center of handle and remove pressure. Engine starts must be possible.

(b) PARK position-Apply rearward force on center of handle and remove pressure. Engine starts must be possible.

(c) NEUTRAL position-Normal position. Engine starts must be possible.

(d) NEUTRAL position-Engine running and brakes applied, apply forward force on center of shift handle. Transmission shall not be able to shift from neutral to reverse.

Throttle valve cable

Transmission throttle valve cable adjustment is extremely important to proper operation. This adjustment positions the throttle valve, which controls shift speed, quality, and part-throttle downshift sensitivity.

If cable setting is too loose, early shifts and slippage between shifts may occur. If the setting is too tight, shifts may be delayed and part throttle downshifts may be very sensitive. Refer to the Adjustments section for the proper adjustment procedure.

Road testing

Before road testing, be sure the fluid level and control cable adjustments have been checked and adjusted if necessary. Verify that diagnostic trouble codes have been resolved.

Observe engine performance during the road test.

A poorly tuned engine will not allow accurate analysis of transmission operation.

Operate the transmission in all gear ranges. Check for shift variations and engine flare which indicates slippage. Note if shifts are harsh, spongy, delayed, early, or if part throttle downshifts are sensitive.

Slippage indicated by engine flare, usually means clutch, band or overrunning clutch problems. If the condition is advanced, an overhaul will be necessary to restore normal operation.

A slipping clutch or band can often be determined by comparing which internal units are applied in the various gear ranges. The Clutch and Band Application chart provides a basis for analyzing road test results.