Transmission Control Module (TCM)

DESCRIPTION

Fig. 2:

The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is located in the engine compartment on the left (driver's) side next to the Power Distribution Center (PDC) (Fig. 2).

OPERATION
The Transmission Control Module (TCM) is the controlling unit for all electronic operations of the transaxle. The TCM receives information regarding vehicle operation from both direct and indirect inputs, and selects the operational mode of the transaxle. Direct inputs are hardwired to, and used specifically by the TCM. Indirect inputs originate from other components/modules, and are shared with the TCM via the PCI bus.
Some examples of direct inputs to the TCM are:
- Battery (B+) voltage
- Ignition "ON" voltage
- Transmission Control Relay (Switched B+)
- Throttle Position Sensor
- Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
- Transmission Range Sensor (TRS)
- Pressure Switches (L/R, 2/4, OD)
- Transmission Temperature Sensor (Integral to TRS)
- Input Shaft Speed Sensor
- Output Shaft Speed Sensor
- TRS Hall Effect Switch (Autostick)
Some examples of indirect inputs to the TCM are:
- Engine/Body Identification
- Manifold Pressure
- Target Idle
- Torque Reduction Confirmation
- Speed Control ON/OFF Switch
- Engine Coolant Temperature
- Ambient/Battery Temperature
- Brake Switch Status
- DRB Communication
Based on the information received from these various inputs, the TCM determines the appropriate shift schedule and shift points, depending on the present operating conditions and driver demand. This is possible through the control of various direct and indirect outputs.
Some examples of TCM direct outputs are:
- Transmission Control Relay
- Solenoids (L/R, 2/4, OD and UD)
- Vehicle Speed (to PCM)
- Torque Reduction Request (to PCM)
Some examples of TCM indirect outputs are:
- Transmission Temperature (to PCM)
- PRNDL Position (to BCM)
- Autostick Display (to BCM)
In addition to monitoring inputs and controlling outputs, the TCM has other important responsibilities and functions:
- Storing and maintaining Clutch Volume Indexes (CVI)
- Storing and selecting appropriate Shift Schedules
- System self-diagnostics
- Diagnostic capabilities (with DRB III scan tool)

NOTE: If the TCM has been replaced, the "Quick Learn Procedure" must be performed. Refer to "Quick Learn Procedure" in Service Procedures.

CLUTCH VOLUME INDEXES
An important function of the Transmission Control Module (TCM) is to monitor Clutch Volume Indexes (CVI). CVIs represent the volume of fluid needed to compress a clutch pack.
The TCM monitors gear ratio changes by monitoring the Input and Output Speed Sensors. The Input, or Turbine Speed Sensor sends an electrical signal to the TCM that represents input shaft rpm. The Output Speed Sensor provides the TCM with output shaft speed information.

Fig. 3:

By comparing the two inputs, the TCM can determine transaxle gear position. This is important to the CVI calculation because the TCM determines CVIs by monitoring how long it takes for a gear change to occur (Fig. 3).
Gear ratios can be determined by using the DRB III Scan Tool and reading the Input/Output Speed Sensor values in the "Monitors" display. Gear ratio can be obtained by dividing the Input Speed Sensor value by the Output Speed Sensor value.
For example, if the input shaft is rotating at 1000 rpm and the output shaft is rotating at 500 rpm, then the TCM can determine that the gear ratio is
2:1. In direct drive (3rd gear), the gear ratio changes to 1:1. The gear ratio changes as clutches are applied and released. By monitoring the length of time it takes for the gear ratio to change following a shift request, the TCM can determine the volume of fluid used to apply or release a friction element.
The volume of transmission fluid needed to apply the friction elements are continuously updated for adaptive controls. As friction material wears, the volume of fluid need to apply the element increases.





Certain mechanical problems within the input clutch assembly (broken return springs, out of position snap rings, excessive clutch pack clearance, improper assembly, etc.) can cause inadequate or out-of-range element volumes. Also, defective Input/Output Speed Sensors and wiring can cause these conditions. The following chart identifies the appropriate clutch volumes and when they are monitored/ updated:

SHIFT SCHEDULES
As mentioned earlier, the TCM has programming that allows it to select a variety of shift schedules. Shift schedule selection is dependent on the following:
- Shift lever position
- Throttle position
- Engine load
- Fluid temperature
- Software level





As driving conditions change, the TCM appropriately adjusts the shift schedule. Refer to the above chart to determine the appropriate operation expected, depending on driving conditions.