Description & Operation: Introduction

The JA5A-EL is a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transaxle. Nine solenoids control shift changes and shift feel and are located in valve body. Solenoids are controlled by the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The TCM automatically selects a NORMAL or SLOPE mode with gearshift lever in "D" range. These modes change shift speeds. The TCM shifts to SLOPE mode when the uphill grade is about 5 percent or more, and shifts to NORMAL mode when the uphill grade is about 3 percent or less. Shift speeds will be higher under SLOPE mode.

NOTE: TCC solenoid is also known as lock-up solenoid or TCC lock-up solenoid.

TCM receives information from various input devices. TCM uses this information to control the following solenoids:

Shift solenoids "A", "B" and "C" for transaxle shifting.
TCC solenoid for torque converter clutch lock-up.
Pressure Control Solenoid (PCS) to control line pressure.
Reduction timing solenoid to control reduction reducing valve.
Neutral shift solenoid to control neutral shift valve and reverse inhibitor valve.
2-4 brake solenoid to control 2-4 brake operation.
High clutch solenoid to control high clutch operation.

An Overdrive OFF (O/D OFF) switch is mounted on gearshift lever. When O/D OFF switch is released to ON position, transaxle will shift into 5th gear when gearshift lever is in "D" position. O/D OFF light on combination meter should not be illuminated. When O/D OFF switch is depressed to OFF position, transaxle will not shift into 5th gear and O/D OFF light will be illuminated.