Codes P1137, P0141 and P0340, Transmission will not Move off in drive position

Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER
  • 4.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 120,000 MILES
Vehicle when put in drive or 3 position will not move but in 2 it will but is in limp mode because it stays in 2. It is rough when selecting reverse also but that is probably because of the high pressure when in limp mode. I have scanned it and fault codes p1137, p0141 (which relate to o2 sensor) and p0340 crank sensor. But I can't get any codes from the transmission control module and in fact I can't communicate with the transmission control module. But it should show a fault, I think. This just happened suddenly, and it was driving fine before that. Could it be a power supply to the module? Where is it located and how can I test it?
Your help would be appreciated.
Noel Begley.
Monday, January 24th, 2022 AT 3:34 AM

12 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

The transmission is controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM). It is what communicates with the transmission.

If you look at pics 1 and 2, I included the wiring schematic for the circuit. Pic 3 shows the PCM location.

Based on what you described, you should have a code. Are you scanning the can-bus system? Here is a link showing how to do what I'm asking:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Also, based on your description, I'm thinking it is a line pressure issue. Does the vehicle have a remote transmission cooler or is it part of the radiator?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Monday, January 24th, 2022 AT 8:52 PM
Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
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  • 17 POSTS
I have checked the vehicle and it has an oil cooler in the radiator. Looks like factory. It is full of oil and the oil looks clean. It goes in reverse fine although harsh when engaging and same when selecting 2 position. But drive or 3 there is nothing.
Sorry I was so long getting back to you. I have been at one of the other islands and no internet.
NOEL.
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Thursday, February 17th, 2022 AT 12:56 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

No problem whatsoever. Interestingly, reverse requires the highest amount of pressure to engage. When you place it in any of the gears that don't move, does the gear indicator show the correct gear? Also, what is the condition of the fluid?

Let me know.

Joe
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Thursday, February 17th, 2022 AT 2:19 PM
Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
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  • 17 POSTS
The indicator shows what gear is selected and the oil is clean. The oil was changed, and the transmission flushed about 18 months ago.
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Friday, February 18th, 2022 AT 11:49 AM
Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
When in drive or third is selected there is nothing, not even the slightest change in engine revs or trying to move. It will even run backwards if on a slope. Just like it is still in neutral. But as soon as 2 is selected it won't run backwards and it drives forward.
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Friday, February 18th, 2022 AT 11:54 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I reread everything, and it clicked for me. Back in 2008, there was a technical service bulletin on this issue. The forward sprag gear assembly would fail causing no movement in drive. Sorry it took a while to remember, but this was a long time ago.

Now that we know what the likely cause is, I have to tell you the bad. This is an internal component in the transmission. If you look below, I highlighted its location in pic 1. It requires the removal and disassembly of the transmission to access the component. Is that something you are comfortable doing? I would be happy to supply the rebuild directions for you. It doesn't require a full rebuild, but the disassembly and reassembly are included in the directions, so let me know.

Also, starting at pic 2 below, I provided the original technical service bulletin. Note that it says normal operation in reverse, and you have a hard shift. This is likely the result of debris getting into the pressure solenoid or other components.

Let me know if this helps or what I can do to help.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Friday, February 18th, 2022 AT 3:44 PM
Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
Yes, please. Joe, the rebuild directions would be a great help and if it is available on YouTube that would be great. I am a mechanic and have had a few automatic gear boxes apart before. But every make and model have their particular specific ways and some direction will speed up the operation. I deal with rock auto so can you also suggest what parts I need to order like gasket set, filter and forward sprag gear.
Thanks for your help I really appreciate your time and effort.
Noel.
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Friday, February 18th, 2022 AT 5:08 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Does the TSB mirror what you have experienced? If so, then the transmission needs to be removed and inspected. I would suggest testing first. The test for the sprag gear is listed in the TSB above. Let me know if you are comfortable doing that.

I was certain the manual had directions A-Z for a rebuild, but I was wrong. Since you are a mechanic, I should be able to walk you through it.

If you look below, I attached the exploded view of the internal components. Use that as a guide. Pic 2 shows the part I feel has failed. I attached a pic from Rockauto.

As far as gaskets, filters, and so on, Rockauto has a rebuild kit for under $40.00. However, before I recommend getting it so you can have all the seals and gaskets, I need to know which of these RPO's is related to your vehicle.

(RPOs MD8, M30, M32, M33 or M70) This will help me identify the specifics for your transmission. The RPO list will be either in the glove box or where the spare is.

Let me know what I can do to help. Also, let me know if you can complete the test listed in the TSB.

Take care,

Joe
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Friday, February 18th, 2022 AT 8:09 PM
Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
  • MEMBER
  • 17 POSTS
It is a M30. I think if I pull out gear box and strip it. Then order parts from Rock Auto because they can get parts to me in about 10 days. Are there any other things I should look at that may need to be done at the same time?
Thanks: NOEL.
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Saturday, February 19th, 2022 AT 10:48 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

If you are taking it apart, you should see anything additional if needed. If you find any metal shavings or debris in the filter, pan, or trans, you should open the valve body and make sure nothing is lodged in it which will cause issues. If you find that, let me know and I'll walk you through taking it apart.

However, I recommend following the diagnostics I provided. I would feel horrible if you took it apart to find this isn't the issue. It does mirror the TSB. Although I feel this is the issue, I can't be 100% sure without the test. I hope you understand.

Regardless, let me know if you have questions or if I can help in any way. You have a big job ahead of you. LOL Hang in there.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, February 20th, 2022 AT 6:45 PM
Tiny
NOEL BEGLEY VANUATU
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Yes, thanks. I will pull it apart and then let you know what I found.
Thanks: NOEL
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Tuesday, March 1st, 2022 AT 12:33 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Sounds good, Noel. I will watch for your reply.

Take care and let me know if I can help.

Joe
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Tuesday, March 1st, 2022 AT 7:09 PM

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