Torque Converter: Service and Repair

TORQUE CONVERTER

REMOVAL
1. Remove transmission and torque converter from vehicle.
2. Place a suitable drain pan under the converter housing end of the transmission.

CAUTION: Verify that transmission is secure on the lifting device or work surface; the center of gravity of the transmission will shift when the torque converter is removed creating an unstable condition. The torque converter is a heavy unit. Use caution when separating the torque converter from the transmission.





3. Pull the torque converter (1) forward until the center hub clears the oil pump seal.
4. Separate the torque converter from the transmission (2).

INSTALLATION
Check the converter hub and drive flats for sharp edges, burrs, scratches, or nicks. Polish the hub and flats with 320/400 grit paper or crocus cloth if necessary. The hub must be smooth to avoid damaging the pump seal at installation.
1. Lubricate the oil pump seal lip with transmission fluid.
2. Place the torque converter in position on the transmission.

CAUTION: Do not damage oil pump seal or converter hub while inserting torque converter into the front of the transmission.

3. Align the torque converter to oil pump seal opening.
4. Insert the torque converter hub into the oil pump.
5. While pushing the torque converter inward, rotate converter until converter is fully seated in the oil pump gears.





6. Check the converter seating with a scale and straightedge. Surface of the converter lugs should be at least 19 mm (3/4 inch) (3) to the rear of the straightedge when converter is fully seated.
7. If necessary, temporarily secure the converter with a C-clamp attached to the converter housing.
8. Install the transmission in the vehicle.
9. Fill the transmission with the recommended fluid.