Torque converter clutch solenoid

[timhowes]

Hi folks

Going on a long-ish trip to France in my van in 6 days and am trying to ascertain whether I'm likely to encounter trouble. Thanks to Geoff and Julian via FB who have helped with this so far.

Problem: flashing hold light. No symptoms, drives as smoothly as at purchase 2 years ago (2000 V6).

Ran diagnostics and got error P0743. Google suggests this is to do with torque converter clutch solenoid.

Is this something I should look into before going? I have a trusted (but not cheap) local Bongo specialist in Bristol but no idea whether they'll have the part.

As I say, all is running fine and transmission seems normal. Sump pan looks kind of greasy from underneath, not sure whether I should be worried about ATF leak in this context.

Any advice much appreciated.

TIA
Tim

[mikeonb4c]

Have you checked ATF level (i think it has to be checked with engine running and gearbox in D but check on that) and the condition of it. If you can get hold of him on here, BF member Alacrity (Geoff) might give a view as he's an autobox specialist and erstwhile Bongo owner. Good luck, keep us posted.

[timhowes]

Thanks Mike, was reading Alacrity's very helpful posts regarding a similar issue just last night. I'll contact him

[teenmal]

Put the gearstick in 'Park' (P) position hand brake on engine running , check fluid level.

[mikeonb4c]

Put the gearstick in 'Park' (P) position hand brake on engine running , check fluid level.

Thanks teenmal - never can remember the details so yours mechanics correction is welcome.

[timhowes]

Thanks all. Checked fluid, level good and looks/smells normal. Spoke with local Bongo garage who say likely to be solenoid but not to worry if no symptoms. Planning to do my 2 week trip in France next week and book it in for a look on return. I don't fancy the solenoid change myself having watched vids of the ATF drain process, have zero mechanical expertise apart from pedal cycles!

[mikeonb4c]

Thanks all. Checked fluid, level good and looks/smells normal. Spoke with local Bongo garage who say likely to be solenoid but not to worry if no symptoms. Planning to do my 2 week trip in France next week and book it in for a look on return. I don't fancy the solenoid change myself having watched vids of the ATF drain process, have zero mechanical expertise apart from pedal cycles!

Fingers crossed for you and let us know how you get on.

[teenmal]

Thanks all. Checked fluid, level good and looks/smells normal. Spoke with local Bongo garage who say likely to be solenoid but not to worry if no symptoms. Planning to do my 2 week trip in France next week and book it in for a look on return. I don't fancy the solenoid change myself having watched vids of the ATF drain process, have zero mechanical expertise apart from pedal cycles!

Call me old fashioned But I would (personally) get it checked out before the journey.

[timhowes]

Thanks for that. No time, hence spoke with garage and they reassured me.

Watch this space... Have purchased breakdown cover today!

[knpenny]

where in france are you going, i live here and may be able to help if you get into trouble. Have a good trip and good luck