Hi,

I've been running a 2001 JDM Hiace Super Custom (2RZ-E engine, A45DL transmission) 2WD (RZH101G) for about a month. It has 100k miles. The transmission fluid dipstick shows the the right level but clear light brown, not red. No idea if/when the transmission fluid was changed. I'll be getting it changed in a week. The A45DL is a 3+O/D - no diagnostics or much in the way of electrics. It's in a 2001 van but I think they were generally in older vehicles.

It was driving fine, but after the first long drive, and after sitting in stop-start traffic for 30 minutes, it misbehaved when we got going again. Twice it dropped out of O/D back into 3rd when we were at about 60mph. It only did this for a few seconds before engaging O/D again. We were at out destination at that point, and when we went back home a few hours later, it was fine.

Since then, it's done this a few mores times. Usually when in the 50-60 mph range. Usually when not under any acceleration or great load. Just out of the blue. I think it's happened briefly when decelerating from 50mph. When it happens the RPMs jump about 1500, so it's not the lock up. The O/D off light does not come on when this happens, so I don't think it's an issue with the switch - but happy to be corrected.

Looking at the wiring diagram I have, I believe the petrol RHD vans have an O/D relay to control the O/D solenoid, rather than all the other models which have an ECU. But I've yet had the dash out to confirm that.

I'm hoping it's the relay, wiring or O/D solenoid but was hoping of some guidance. I'm in the UK where automatic transmissions are uncommon - so specialist shops are few and far between. And as it's a JDM import, not many places know much about it. So any ideas and suggestions are very welcome. Would pulling the cable from the solenoid help diagnose - if it stays in O/D? Could the solenoid still be the issue if the cable is off and it still happens (physical issue)? Or does it sound like expensive wear to the internals?

Thanks

 

do you have some photos to share ?

 

Sorry - I think there was a double post initially - please ignore this one - or admins can delete it.