GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

EARLY, SOFT UPSHIFTS MISADJUSTED TV. CABLE NEW P/N

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1985 'J' Car With 2.8L V6 Engine and THM 125C Automatic Transaxle

Some 1985 'J' cars equipped with 2.8L V-6 engines and automatic transaxles may exhibit early, soft upshifts due to misadjusted throttle valve (T.V.) cables. Readjusting the T.V. cable will temporarily correct the condition. However, after repeated wide-open-throttle maneuvers the cable may lose adjustment.

This change in adjustment occurs because the T.V. cable readjust tab spring (See Illustration) isn't strong enough to maintain the proper cable setting during a wide-open-throttle maneuver. Consequently, the cable continues to adjust outward resulting in early, soft upshifts. Continued operation of the transaxle with this condition will result in damage to the intermediate band and the direct clutch.

For vehicles built prior to the following V.I.N.'s, this condition may be repaired by installing a new throttle valve cable, P/N 14101470. This new cable has a stronger readjust tab spring which will prevent any movement of the slider after initial adjustment.

Model Plant V.I.N. Breakpoint ----- ----- ----------------- Chevrolet Janesville FJ 220021 Chevrolet Lordstown F7 192067 Oldsmobile Leeds FK 338771 Cadillac Janesville FJ 511770

After installation of the T.V. cable the following procedure should be used for adjustment.

1. Engine must be off.

2. Reset cable to readjust position:

- Depress and hold metal readjust tab.

- Move slider back through fitting away from throttle lever until slider stops against fitting.

- Release readjust tab.

3. Adjust Cable:

- Rotate throttle lever to wide-open-throttle.

- Slider must ratchet (click). If not, refer to repair procedures in the vehicle Service Manual.

4. Review system for proper operation by driving vehicle and evaluating shift feel. Also, check for availability of wide-open-throttle downshifts.

NOTICE: SHIF POINTS AND THE DURABILITY OF THE TRANSAXLE CAN BE AFFECTED BY THIS ADJUSTMENT.

Use applicable labour time and operation number.


Object Number: 89781  Size: SF


Object Number: 91030  Size: MF

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.