Torque Converter Diagnosis

Torque Converter Diagnosis
Prior to new torque converter installation, all diagnostic procedures must be followed. This is to prevent the unnecessary installation of new or remanufactured torque converters. Only after a complete diagnostic evaluation can the decision be made to install a new torque converter.
Begin with the normal diagnostic procedures as follows:
1. Preliminary Inspection.
2. Know and understand the customer's concern.
3. Verify the condition-carry out the torque converter operation test.
4. Carry out diagnostic procedures.
- Carry out on-board diagnostics; refer to Diagnostics.
- Repair all non-transmission related DTCs first.
- Repair all transmission DTCs.
- Rerun on-board diagnostic to verify repair.
- Carry out Line Pressure Test.
- Carry out Stall Speed Test.
- Carry out Diagnostic Routines.
- Use the Diagnosis by Symptom Index to locate the appropriate routine that best describes the symptom(s). The routine will list all possible components that may cause or contribute to the symptom. Check each component listed; diagnose and repair as required before changing the torque converter.

Torque Converter Operation Test
This test verifies that the torque converter clutch control system and the torque converter are operating correctly.
1. Carry out Quick Test with scan tool. Check for DTCs.
2. Connect a tachometer to the engine.
3. Bring the engine to normal operating temperature by driving the vehicle at highway speeds for approximately 15 minutes in 0 position.
4. After normal operating temperature is reached, maintain a constant vehicle speed of about 80 km/h (50 mph) and tap brake pedal with the led foot.
5. Engine rpm should increase when brake pedal is tapped, and decrease about five seconds after pedal is released. If this does not occur, see torque converter operation concerns. For additional information, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom.
6. If the vehicle stalls in D or manual 2 at idle with vehicle at a stop, move the transmission range selector lever to manual 1 position. If the vehicle stalls, see torque converter operation concerns. For additional information, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom. If the vehicle does not stall in D, refer to Diagnosis By Symptom.
7. If the vehicle exhibits a vibration during the road test complete the Road Test Evaluation Form. This form will aid the technician in determining the source of the vibration.

NOTE: The following is a list of common vehicle concerns that have been misdiagnosed as torque converter clutch shudder.

- Spark plugs - check for cracks, high resistance or broken insulators.
- Plug wires.
- Fuel injector - filter may be plugged.
- Fuel contamination - engine runs poor.
- EGR valve - valve may let in too much exhaust gas and cause engine to run lean.
- Vacuum leak - engine will not get correct air/fuel mixture.
- MAP/MAF sensor - improper air/fuel mixture.
- HO2S sensor - too rich/lean air/fuel mixture.
- Fuel pressure - may be too low.
- Engine mounts - loose/damaged mounts can cause vibration concerns.
- Axle joints - check for vibration.








Torque Converter Road Evaluation Form