Significance of metal pieces in tranny oil pan?
 

I've been getting PO770 (defective/malfunctioning solenoid E) codes. There is also a PO773 (open or short wiring - solenoid E) code, but I have NOT gotten it.

The attached pictures show 1/8-1/2" thin metal pieces I found on my oil pan magnets, as well as 2 very fuzzy magnets. That's a dime in the one picture to show the size of the metal pieces.

Does this amount of metal mean that my transmission is headed for complete failure in the next few months, if not sooner?

This tranny supposedly has 40k miles on it.

I removed the solenoid valve SL ("lock up") and it works and passed the electrical resistance test, so it is not the source of the metal.

Any expert opinions will be appreciated.

The P0770 code is a result of the torque converter not locking up within the normal driving range (after a certain MPH)

Or continues to be locked up when the O/D switch is off.

Or when the converter is locked the trans clutch or brakes or slipping or there is a broken gear.

Test the solenoid operation by applying voltage, make sure the valve cycles. Apply air pressure to the end of the valve to make sure it does leak out the side when off (71 psi).

Or could be a problem with the trans valve valve stuck (perhaps a result of the debris in the pan), torque converter clutch bad, trans axle.

There is going to be some debris, that's why the magnets are there. Not a trans expert but this amount seems too much for a 4OK trans, especially the part next to the dime.

Still, this code is common. Could be a stuck valve (common). Can't remember if the valve can slide out and be cleaned but try it. As such although the metal is not a good sign it may not be the cause of this code.

Does or does not leak out the side when off?
 

Thanks for the great advice, but I'm not clear about the following:

...to make sure it does (or does not?) leak out the side when off (71 psi)?

Thanks.

I think he is referring to the battery...