97 Cutlass ?'s

[97Cutlass]

My 97 Cutlass Supreme has 247,000 miles and has been very reliable. I've had the tranny flushed 3 times and it still feels strong. Recently my check engine light came on and its the tranny thats causing it. I hooked up a scanner and all it said was "transmission component slipping". I cleared the code and the light went off for about 20 miles. The tranny seems to shift fine and I don't notice any slip. Here are some of my ?'s.

1. What tranny is in my car? 97 Olds Cutlass Supreme 3.1Lt.
2. Is there a soleniod or something easy to fix making the light come on?
3. Should the tranny filter be replaced before a tranny flush?

Thanks for your time
Tracy

[sharkey]

1) its a 4t60e
2) most likley not a solonoid problem. this code is set when it detects a slip. it detects this by comparing engine rpm to output rpm, and compares this value to whats its programed for for each gear. if it goes out of that range, itll set that code.
3) a service will not help this problem. its most likley worn/hard seals or thin clutches, although its hard to make a call without looking at the freeze frame data from when that code was set. knowing that would tell weather it was in lockup and when gear its in.

[tractorman]

It's likely just plain worn out... but I'd go ahead and change the transmission filter first just for the hell of it. Low fluid or a plugged filter can make a transmission slip.

[sharkey]

yes both those can cause a slip, however if the filter is plugged, there is a reason for it. usualy when filters plug up, clutches are worn out or the lockup clutch is comming apart.

[97Cutlass]

What does a rebuild kit for this tranny cost? I just as well rebuild it before it leaves me stranded. Also where can I find a repair manual for this tranny?