A340H Trans Not Shifting

fast-kat

New member
Ok, so I have a 1990 T4R 4x4 that is not shifting properly. It works in 1st and reverse. It won't shift into 2nd until around 4500 RPM. I bought the 3 shift solenoids and was able to install 2 of the 3. I installed the 2 shift solenoids but was not able to install the lockup solenoid because they sent me the wrong mounting bracket. Will a bad lockup solenoid cause my shifting problem or am I looking at a trans rebuild?
 
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How did the inside of the pan and fluid look? Even with new fluid, topped up to level your having trouble shifting? These gearboxes are pretty robust if you keep the fluid clean and topped up. Even factory rebuilt units are not bad, 2k or so.
regards
 
How did the inside of the pan and fluid look? Even with new fluid, topped up to level your having trouble shifting? These gearboxes are pretty robust if you keep the fluid clean and topped up. Even factory rebuilt units are not bad, 2k or so.
regards

Fluid looked ok. Nothing unusual in the pan. New fluid, new filter and topped off. Acting the same as before, no improvement. It's not slipping, just not shifting as it should.
 
was there any sediment in the bottom of the pan? Did the fluid have a "darker" color then standard ATF? You might have a burnt out clutch pack or two. These transmissions are pretty reliable compared to others out there. Generally, when there are "issues" like this, it's trans rebuild time. Rarely do I see solenoids or other components fail. The state of tune of the engines can seemingly really effect the shift points on the truck, but never inhibit it's shifting at all.
If you want to do some diagnostics on the trans itself, the factory manual goes into great detail on diagnosing trans components themselves.
regards
 
Can you manually shift the transmission starting in low up to drive? That might offer a clue as to whether its another problem My kid ran his Runner like for years before he got tired of it and we replaced the solenoids.
 
If your a DIYer (and going to keep the 4runner) I'd opt out for a factory rebuilt unit from a discounting dealer source (about 2k). Rebuilt units are basically "new" from a standards basis. I've found trans places can give you quotes, but without having it on the ground for examination, most of that is useless. It is always generally higher. I view 2k for a "factory rebuilt unit" as a give-away. They provide higher standards then most trans shops and have access to better parts(for the most part). The cost basis on it is probably higher in real terms.
Locally, someone might do an inexpensive rebuild for $1500. You might try sourcing a low mile unit if possible. Best of luck with it.
regards
 
The a340 transmissions are reliable enough, and rebuilds expensive enough, that I'd have no qualms putting a $300 junkyard unit in my truck.
 
Well, back to my original question. Will a bad lockup solenoid cause the shifting problems? It's not slipping, just shifting very late at about 4500 rpm.
 
If you can't shift the transmission manually and there isn't a code for a solenoid I would guess you're looking at a bad transmission.

If the transmission is in tact it will shift manually. By that mean put it in L from a dead stop, let off the gas, shift to the next position, let off the gas until you're in D and then hit the OD button.

If it runs normally I'd guess solenoid or valve body.
 
Well, back to my original question. Will a bad lockup solenoid cause the shifting problems? It's not slipping, just shifting very late at about 4500 rpm.

The lockup solenoid only controls the converter. The other two solenoids control forward shifting only. Reverse is strictly a mechanical/hydraulic fluid circuit (no electronics or solenoids).

How many miles are on it? Can you back up a hill in reverse without it slipping? Is your downshift cable possibly out of adjustment? (that will cause it to not shift correctly)
If your clutches and/or fluid are not burnt and your pump is making good pressure then it sounds more like a downshift cable issue or an electronic control issue to me.
 
Last edited:
Shift lever ball seat ?

Check with my buddy Roberto Mjango worked at Fletcher Jones 14 yrs 702-375-0566 , not saying it might not be trans but this is a very easy fix if its just the the ball seat & marlincrawler makes em better than OE or OEM justa thought ! Been doing my nephew's 92 & we we've already replaced this once . He's behind Loose Caboose lamb & sahara good dude
 

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