Line Pressure Control - 45/545RFE

Proper control of the transmission line pressure is essential for proper operation. The 45RFE/545RFE normally uses closed loop line pressure control, where actual line pressure (reported by the line pressure sensor) is continuously monitored. The TCM determines the desired (target) line pressure, which is required, and adjusts the Pressure Control Solenoid (PCS) until the actual line pressure matches the desired line pressure value. In the event of a line pressure sensor failure DTC P0867 (CB), the TCM changes to an open loop control at an essentially constant line pressure.

Proper diagnosis of line pressure systems is facilitated by the use of a special tool (T-fitting - Miller #8259) which allows the use of a mechanical pressure gauge to compare the line pressure sensor reading on the DRBIII® to the gauge pressure. Technicians should compare the mechanical gauge reading with the "actual" and "desired" line pressure reading on the DRBIII®. All three readings should closely match in pressure. Because the mechanical and actual line pressure may not match, the desired at low engine speeds (due to low pump output RPM), line pressure should always be checked at 1500-2000 RPM.

Typical Line Pressure problems include: 

• Mechanical and "actual" readings both less than desired
  • If the mechanical and "actual" readings do not increase significantly as engine speed is raised above 2000 RPM, the pressure control solenoid is usually at fault. The pressure control solenoid is usually accompanied by DTC's P0867 (C8) and P0868 (C9). The PCS is located in the Transmission Solenoid/TRS assembly.
  • If the mechanical and "actual" readings vary with engine speed (above 2000 RPM), the fault is often a sticking main regulator valve. This valve is located in the transmission pump assembly.
• "Actual" reading on the DRBIII® differs from the Mechanical Pressure reading (higher or lower) by more than 69 kPa (10 PSI). This is sometimes accompanied by a DTC P0869 (CB). The fault is usually in the Line Pressure Sensor or the Line Pressure Sensor Wiring.
• All three readings match, but the "actual" reading exhibits momentary intermittent pressure increases to 1724 kPa (250 PSI). The line Pressure Sensor is usually the problem. This will cause erratic shift quality (particularly a harsh 3-1 coast down shift), repair by replacing the Line Pressure Sensor.