1986 Chilton A43D Rebuild Manual

The 1986 Chilton A43D Rebuild Manual provides comprehensive guidance for rebuilding the A43D automatic transmission used in various 1980s vehicles. This manual covers disassembly procedures, component inspection, replacement guidelines, reassembly steps, torque specifications, fluid requirements, and troubleshooting techniques for proper transmission restoration and performance.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Safety Precautions 3. Tools and Equipment 4. Disassembly Procedures 5. Component Inspection 6. Rebuild Procedures 7. Torque Specifications 8. Fluid Requirements 9. Installation Guidelines 10. Troubleshooting 11. Maintenance Schedule

Transmission Specifications

The A43D automatic transmission features 4 forward speeds with overdrive, torque converter lockup, and electronic controls.

SpecificationDetails
Transmission Type4-speed automatic with overdrive
Gear Ratios1st: 2.84, 2nd: 1.54, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.69, Reverse: 2.30
Fluid Capacity7.2 quarts (dry fill)
Fluid TypeDexron II or III ATF
Torque Converter11.8 inch diameter with lockup clutch
Case MaterialAluminum die-cast
WeightApproximately 145 lbs (dry)
Applications1984-1986 Toyota Cressida, Supra

Safety Precautions

Essential safety measures for transmission rebuilding operations.

  1. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with transmission components.
  2. Use proper lifting equipment - transmission weighs over 140 lbs.
  3. Work in well-ventilated area when handling transmission fluid.
  4. Disconnect battery before beginning any electrical work.
  5. Use transmission jack rated for at least 300 lbs capacity.

WARNING! Transmission fluid is flammable and can cause skin irritation. Avoid contact with hot components.

Tools and Equipment

Required tools for complete A43D transmission rebuild.

  1. Transmission jack (300+ lbs capacity)
  2. Torque wrench (inch-lbs and ft-lbs)
  3. Snap ring pliers (internal and external)
  4. Bearing puller set
  5. Clutch spring compressor
  6. Dial indicator with magnetic base
  7. Feeler gauge set
  8. Clean work bench with vise
  9. Parts cleaning tank or solvent
  10. Air compressor with blow gun

CAUTION! Use only recommended tools to avoid damaging precision components.

Disassembly Procedures

Component Inspection

Thorough inspection guidelines for all transmission components.

Critical Checks: Clutch plates for wear, bands for glazing, planetary gears for pitting, bearings for roughness, seals for cracks, valve body for sticking valves, torque converter for contamination.

Inspect: Input/output shafts for wear, pump gears for scoring, case for cracks, solenoids for electrical function, accumulators for free movement, thrust washers for thickness.

Rebuild Procedures

Step-by-step reassembly of A43D transmission components.

  1. Install new bearings and seals using proper drivers.
  2. Assemble clutch packs with new friction plates and steels.
  3. Install planetary gear sets with correct thrust washers.
  4. Set band apply clearances to specification (0.060-0.100 inch).
  5. Reinstall valve body with new gaskets and proper torque.
  6. Install extension housing with new seal.
  7. Fill torque converter with clean ATF before installation.
  8. Set end play to 0.008-0.020 inch using selective thrust washers.

Tip: Lubricate all components with ATF during assembly.

Torque Specifications

Critical torque values for A43D transmission assembly.

ComponentTorque ValueNotes
Bellhousing Bolts45 ft-lbsUse thread locker
Valve Body Bolts80 inch-lbsStaggered pattern
Extension Housing40 ft-lbsNew seal required
Oil Pan Bolts45 inch-lbsUse new gasket
Output Flange Nut130 ft-lbsStake in place
Neutral Safety Switch90 inch-lbsAlign properly
Cooler Line Fittings18 ft-lbsDo not overtighten

Fluid Requirements

Transmission fluid specifications and filling procedures.

  1. Fluid Type: Dexron II or III Automatic Transmission Fluid
  2. Initial Fill: 4 quarts (torque converter empty)
  3. Total Capacity: 7.2 quarts (including torque converter)
  4. Fluid Change Interval: 30,000 miles under normal conditions
  5. Filter Replacement: Required with every fluid change
  6. Checking Level: Engine running, transmission in Park

WARNING! Do not overfill transmission - can cause foaming and damage.

Installation Guidelines

Proper installation of rebuilt A43D transmission.

  1. Align torque converter properly with pump gears before installation.
  2. Ensure converter is fully seated before bolting to flexplate.
  3. Connect all electrical connectors and cooler lines securely.
  4. Adjust shift linkage for proper gate alignment.
  5. Fill with specified ATF quantity before starting engine.
  6. Check for leaks and proper fluid level after warm-up.
  7. Road test to verify proper shift operation in all ranges.

CAUTION! Ensure transmission is properly supported during installation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No forward movementFront clutch failureReplace front clutch pack and seals
No reverseReverse clutch or bandInspect reverse components and hydraulic circuit
Delayed engagementLow fluid, filter cloggedCheck fluid level and replace filter
Harsh shiftingValve body, accumulatorInspect valve body and accumulator springs
Slipping in gearWorn clutches, low pressureCheck line pressure and clutch clearance
OverheatingCooler restriction, low fluidFlush cooler lines, check fluid level

Diagnostic Tip: Always check fluid condition and level first before major disassembly.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for A43D transmission.

For technical support contact Chilton Customer Service at 1-800-CHA-HELP or visit www.chilton.com

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