Loss of Overdrive on 1996 L400

[oceanchem]

Hi all,
A couple of weeks ago the following problem presented itself:

1. Pressing OD switch on gearshift does not cause the OD OFF light to appear
2. Van is clearly not in OD as only ~3 gears available and 80 km/h = 3.1-3.2 krpm

Has anyone had this trouble before? I have checked fuses and they appear to be fine. It is difficult for me to take the van on the highway at this point (for service) and wanted to know if there is anything obvious I might be missing that could help solve the problem.

Cheers,
Jay

[Feds]

The Overdrive switch is a pretty common failure point. You can either replace the shift lever, or wire in a new switch somewhere on your dashboad. I don't have the wiring diagram in front of me, but I believe there are only 3 wires involved.

Spend some time googling Delica Overdrive Switch, and you may find a tutorial that will help you solve the problem.

[izack98]

Have a look at these 3 links. Gives you a couple of options.

http://www.mdocuk.co.uk/forums/viewtopi ... m+bushings

http://www.delicaclub.com/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=14094

http://www.delicaclub.com/viewtopic.php?t=490


I did the repair as in the first link. It was exactly as described.

[oceanchem]

Hi all,

The switch works fine mechanically but the O/D off light will not come on. The van is clearly not in OD. Is this behaviour consistent with a faulty switch?

[Feds]

Yes. A broken switch will still click in and out fine. It just won't let the van go into overdrive. I did repair #2.

[izack98]

Yes, Feds is right. The switch feels like its operating normally. I was surprised that a tiny bit of play in the switch resulted in it not working.
I think the total repair took me about 90 minutes. Just be careful when you take the switch apart, the pieces will probably fall out. Its a little fiddly to put back together but not impossible.

[thelazygreenfox]

Thanks for researching this switch. I've had my button taped down for a year now.
TLWF

[EricE]

Also check the overdrive temp sender , If disconnected the OD is locked out .
The thought for it is the Deli will not shift to while cold , once warmed up it shifts . Silly idea , bypass the sender by attaching the sender wire to ground and leave it like that , it rules out the sender,
Other possibilities , the Od switch and a faulty TPS , as well the speed sensor can lock out the OD,

[thelazygreenfox]

EE
Where is the OTS located? Engine or transmission. Can you send a pic of it's location.
thx
TLWF

[oceanchem]

Hi all,

Thanks for the tips. Indeed, when I removed the cover and had a look at the wire leads from the gearshift across the crimps on the steering column the red and yellow wires had been neatly severed. Perhaps by my kids playing a little bit too enthusiastically with the lever while parked. After connecting and taping the switch now functions to engage the OD on and off (amber light illuminating and going out). As far as I can tell I'm back to running at 80 km/h at 2700 rpm rather than 3100-3200 rpm. I appreciate everyones input and help.

Cheers,

Jay

[oceanchem]

I am still unable to access 4th gear despite the fact that the switch is now operational. Will need more help. Thanks for the tips above.

[Big-Bird]

solenoid switch at the tranny might be faulty. The tech forum has the schematics shown.