Hello all:

I tried roaming all the postings here hoping to find something that troubleshoots the problem I am having with the recently installed J-type M1 into my 122.

No luck, so I am going ahead and ask for help.

The J-type M41 I acquired is a rebuilt one, but after I had it installed, it will not respond whenever I tried flipping the switch while I test drove it at cruising speed. However, when I turned off the switch, the car bucked for a split second almost as if the overdrive was being engaged, but the engine RPM remained the same.

I tried flipping the switches several more times. Same result: nothing happens with the switch turned on, but bucked every time I flipped the switch off.

I found it really strange, but I am hoping that this symptom may be something one of you or more recognize and hopefully could offer a remedy.

Many thanks in advance!

-DS

Hey to guys who have responded with tips:

Derek of UK: No, no mistake with the switch...would have been awful if it was and that I backed up! And yes, I have already tested the solenoid to be working.

Fredneck Tom: I had already made sure that the electrical connection was not the issue, but thanks for sharing that thought...I sure wished it would have been just that problem!

Now my update...I went ahead and took out the solenoid...and what do you know?! The first o-ring (at the end of the solenoid valve) was missing! I looked in the pan that the oil from the O/D had drained into. Found some broken pieces of black rubber. I picked up the largest one and it kind of crumbled apart when I tried stretching it.

I hope that was it. I submitted an order of two sets of o-rings as well as a new sealing ring between the solenoid and the body. Fingers crossed that this is the remedy.

Will be back with an update.

-DS

Hi guys:

I’m here with the latest update on the problem of having the OD engage. After installing new O-rings and a sealing washer on the solenoid, all works now!!

Thanks again to all of you who had replied with advice.

-DS

I hope you didn't order them from Sweden as I have all 3 solenoid seals in stock.
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Eric
Hi Performance Automotive Service (formerly OVO or Old Volvos Only)
Torrance, CA 90502
hiperformanceautoservice.com or oldvolvosonly.com

Nope, from VP Autoparts in South Carolina. Great and quick service they have.

But thanks!

-DS

Bad switch? It's a long shot but try the easy things first.
Turn on ignition switch. Motor doesn't have to be running. Check out switch terminals with a volt meter. One of the two should show 12 volts. Now hook meter to the other terminal...it should read zero. Next turn on the od switch...volt meter should read a steady 12 volts. If so, switch is good. If the reading is zero, turn od switch off while watching the volt meter closely. If you see a slight jump or reaction, that is the jerk or bump you feel while driving. Switch is bad. Hope that is the problem. Easy fix. Tom

Who rebuilt the O/D?

It sounds like the O/D isn't building enough pressure to engage and that can be caused by numerous parts and even a defective case.

There are a few things that can be checked without removing the overdrive like the solenoid, the pump check valve and the relief valve assembly.

The buck you describe might be the release of what little pressure the O/D might have built up.

--
Eric
Hi Performance Automotive Service (formerly OVO or Old Volvos Only)
Torrance, CA 90502
hiperformanceautoservice.com or oldvolvosonly.com

Hi Eric:

The O/D was rebuilt by a transmission builder in Sweden and has zero miles on it and is just like new. I bought it from a seller who got it from the builder as a business exchange.

Having done some business with the seller in the past on old Volvo parts, I trust him.

What you said about the pressure not building up enough with the O/D engaged made sense. I did see oil film seep around the solenoid...will try to pinpoint where it is coming from as well as doing the pressure test.

Will update, but if you or anyone else has additional tips/suggestions.

Thanks,

-DS

Switch wiring reversed? If the reverse gear is engaged when in overdrive, major damage is likely to happen. It may already have happened unfortunately. Make sure that the oil level is good.
With engine not running, put it in top gear and switch the ignition on. Switch overdrive on and listen for the solenoid to "clunk" If it's a quiet environment the noise should be obvious. If noisy you might have to get out and listen under the car. Better still have someone hold the solenoid while you switch the OD on and off.