Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Ratio Control Motor (RCM): Notes
The ratio control motor - RCM is a linear position device, which changes transmission ratio by accurately controlling the position of the variable ratio control valve in order to regulate primary feed fluid flow. The RCM has a total nominal travel of 22.0 mm (0.87 in).
The transmission control module (TCM) controls the sheave ratio by adjusting the position of the RCM pintle. Movement of the pintle changes the position of the variable ratio control valve, which regulates the primary feed fluid flow and directly changes the sheave ratio. The RCM is a bi-directional motor driven by two coils. The TCM supplies a ground to apply current to the RCM in steps, counts, to extend or retract the pintle. An increase in counts will result in a larger speed ratio, smaller sheave ratio, and a decrease in counts will result in a smaller speed ratio, larger sheave ratio.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.