2003 Acura TL Transmission Overhaul Manual

The 2003 Acura TL features a 5-speed automatic transmission that may require overhaul due to common issues like torque converter failure, solenoid problems, or worn clutch packs. This manual provides comprehensive guidance for transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures. Below are key sections covering safety precautions, tools required, step-by-step overhaul process, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Transmission Overview 2. Safety Precautions 3. Required Tools & Equipment 4. Transmission Removal 5. Disassembly Procedures 6. Component Inspection 7. Repair & Replacement 8. Reassembly Process 9. Transmission Installation 10. Testing & Verification 11. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Transmission Overview

The 2003 Acura TL uses a B7XA 5-speed automatic transmission with sequential sportshift capability. Key components include torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, planetary gear sets, and electronic control unit.

Component	Description
Transmission Type	5-speed automatic with sportshift
Gear Ratios	1st: 2.697, 2nd: 1.606, 3rd: 1.071, 4th: 0.765, 5th: 0.566, Reverse: 2.000
Fluid Capacity	Approximately 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters)
Fluid Type	Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or equivalent
Torque Converter	Stall speed: 2200-2500 RPM
Valve Body	Electronic shift control with 8 solenoids
Clutch Packs	Multiple friction and steel plates
Planetary Gears	Compound planetary gear set
Final Drive	4.389:1 ratio

Safety Precautions

Always follow proper safety procedures when working on transmission systems.

Disconnect battery negative terminal before beginning work.
Use transmission jack rated for at least 500 lbs capacity.
Wear safety glasses and gloves during disassembly.
Ensure vehicle is properly supported on jack stands.
Handle transmission fluid with care - it is flammable and slippery.

WARNING! Transmission is heavy (approx 150 lbs); use proper lifting equipment and techniques to prevent injury.

Required Tools & Equipment

Specialized tools needed for proper transmission overhaul.

Transmission jack with safety chain
Torque wrench (1/2" drive, 20-150 ft-lbs range)
Snap ring pliers (internal and external)
Bearing puller set
Clutch spring compressor
Valve body holding fixture
Dial indicator with magnetic base
Transmission fluid pressure gauge set
Seal installation tools
Acura/Honda scan tool for diagnostics

CAUTION! Using improper tools may damage transmission components and void warranty.

Transmission Removal

Step 1: Disconnect battery and drain transmission fluid
Step 2: Remove air intake and battery for access
Step 3: Disconnect shift cable and electrical connectors
Step 4: Remove driveshaft and half shafts
Step 5: Support engine with support fixture
Step 6: Remove transmission mount and crossmember
Step 7: Separate transmission from engine
Step 8: Lower transmission using transmission jack

Disassembly Procedures

Systematic disassembly process to ensure proper reassembly.

External Components: Remove torque converter, bellhousing, output flange, and shift linkage.

Internal Components: Remove valve body, oil pump, clutch packs, planetary gear sets, and differential assembly in sequence. Mark all components for proper reassembly orientation.

Component Inspection

Thorough inspection of all transmission components for wear and damage.

Check clutch plates for wear - replace if friction material is worn below specifications
Inspect steel plates for scoring or heat damage
Measure clutch pack clearances - should be 0.020-0.035 inches
Check planetary gears for excessive backlash
Inspect valve body for stuck valves or worn bores
Test all solenoids for proper resistance (5-10 ohms)
Check torque converter for contamination and bushing wear
Inspect all bearings and bushings for wear

Tip: Use micrometer and dial indicator for precise measurements.

Repair & Replacement

Common replacement parts and repair procedures.

Replace worn clutch packs with OEM quality parts
Install new seals and gaskets throughout transmission
Replace valve body if solenoids are faulty or valves are stuck
Install new torque converter if contaminated or damaged
Replace worn bearings and bushings
Update transmission control module software if available

WARNING! Always use genuine Acura parts or equivalent quality replacements to ensure proper operation.

Reassembly Process

Follow reverse order of disassembly with attention to torque specifications.

Component	Torque Specification
Transmission to engine bolts	33 ft-lbs
Valve body bolts	7.2 ft-lbs
Oil pump bolts	16 ft-lbs
Clutch pack retaining bolts	16 ft-lbs
Output flange nut	134 ft-lbs
Transmission mount bolts	47 ft-lbs

Transmission Installation

Reverse of removal procedure with additional considerations.

Install new input shaft seal
Align torque converter properly - must spin freely
Use alignment tools for proper engine-transmission alignment
Fill with proper ATF fluid before starting engine
Bleed air from torque converter by rotating crankshaft

Testing & Verification

Post-installation testing procedures to ensure proper operation.

Check fluid level with transmission at operating temperature. Road test for proper shift points and smooth operation. Use scan tool to monitor transmission parameters and check for diagnostic trouble codes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Worn clutch packs, pressure issues	Replace clutch packs, check line pressure
Transmission slips	Low fluid, worn clutches	Check fluid level, replace worn components
No reverse gear	Reverse clutch failure	Inspect and replace reverse clutch pack
Delayed engagement	Torque converter, valve body	Replace torque converter, clean valve body
Overheating	Clutch slippage, cooler issues	Check cooler flow, replace slipping clutches

Technical Support: Acura Technical Service Bulletin 03-020 for transmission software updates

Parts Information: Contact Acura dealer or visit www.acura.com for genuine parts