The Signs And Causes Of Torque Converter Problems

A torque converter is a component used in a vehicle with an automatic transmission. The function is no different than a clutch in a car outfitted with a manual transmission; it allows the engine to run while the car is at a dead stop. A well functioning torque converter is a must. If it does malfunction, the vehicle will soon begin to shudder and the transmission will slip. The trouble with a torque converter is the fact that the torque converter parts are not visible; the working components are sealed in a substantial housing. There are a number of reasons that might be behind the way your car is acting and it may not be the torque convertor that is the culprit.

Signs of torque converter problems:

The typical signs of a faulty torque converter include slipping, high frequency vibration, overheating or odd noises.

Overheating: Most of today’s modern vehicles do not come equipped with a gauge for the transmission temperature. They do have a warning system that alerts the driver to an overheating issue with the transmission. Overheating of the transmission can be caused by a drop in the fluid pressure or it could be an indication that the fluid level is low or one of the solenoids has failed.

Slipping: If there is too much or not enough fluid passing through the transmission, there is a good chance that you will feel the gears slipping and a sharp decrease in the fuel economy.

Shudder: If your car begins to shudder at city speeds, you could most certainly have torque converter problems. The sensation is similar to driving over uneven surfaces; you will certainly know it when it happens. This sensation may come and go so when you first sense it. Have it checked out by your mechanic.

Causes of torque converter problems:

Don’t assume it is the torque converter, HYPERLINK “http://www.raybestospowertrain.com/”torque converter parts, of course, do fail but more often than not, the transmission is at fault.

Needle bearing problems: Needle bearings separate the internal rotating components of the torque converter; the stator, impeller and turbine. If these bearings should fail, there will be unwanted metal to metal contact; this rapidly destroys the device.

Damaged seals: If the seal fails, fluid will leak from the torque converter casing. This will result in overheating, slipping and even irregular shifting of the gears. This is one of the torque converter parts that can be replaced relatively easily.

Perhaps the biggest cause of torque converter failure is damage to the clutches. If the temperature is exceeded, they can burn and stick which means your transmission will stay in gear at all times, even at a dead stop.