Torque Converter: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION
The torque converter is a Fluid Link Coupling (FLC) type of torque converter that has a fluid coupling which connects the engine to the drivetrain. It transfers engine torque to the transaxle through the transmission oil contained within it.

OPERATION
The converter acts as an automatic clutch with the engine mechanically driving the impeller which, in turn, drives the turbine hydraulically. The FLC, under certain operating conditions, multiplies torque by providing an extra reduction to match the engine output to the driveshaft. In all gear ranges, with the FLC, engine torque is 100 percent hydraulically transmitted.

CONSTRUCTION
The hydraulically driven turbine is the transaxle drive input member. It is the hydraulic connection between the impeller and the turbine where a certain amount of engine torque is lost to converter slip. To minimize this converter inefficiency, the ATX converter contains a splitter gear to provide a mechanical connection between the engine and transaxle. The splitter gear set is very similar to a planetary gear set.