Transmission Position Sensor/Switch: Testing and Inspection

1983 Chevrolet EL Camino V6-229 3.8LSECTION Testing and Inspection

Chart 24B - Park/Neutral Circuit (P/N):




Wiring Diagram for Chart 24B - Park/Neutral Circuit (P/N):





CHART 24B - PARK/NEUTRAL CIRCUIT (P/N)


Circuit Description:

The P/N switch is connected to the transmission gear selector. The switch is closed when the gear selector is in Park or Neutral and open for all other ranges. One side of the switch is connected to the ECM which supplies a buffered 12 volts. The other side of the switch is connected to ground. The P/N switch is an input to the ECM. When the voltage at ECM Terminal "H" is high (12 volts), the ECM allows activation, at the proper time, of other controls such as TCC, EST, VSS, ISC and others.


Test Description:

1. Checks for good P/N circuit. When the switch is closed in Park and Neutral, the voltage across the P/N switch terminals should be low, usually less than 1 volt. When the switch is open in Drive and Reverse, the voltage should be about battery voltage.


2. This step separates a faulty switch, or switch adjustment, from a faulty electrical circuit or ECM. Normal voltage across the terminals of the connector, removed from the P/N switch, should be about battery voltage.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.