Understanding the function of the various torque converter parts in your car can help you diagnose and fix transmission issues. This will further enhance your vehicle’s performance and safety as you drive.
The torque converter is a significant part of the transmission operations in a car. In other words, failure to ensure that its components are intact can impact your car’s drivability and pose a serious risk.
This article reveals the various types of torque converters, the purpose of the component, as well as the torque converter parts’ names, and their respective roles in the entire system.
Types of Torque Converter
There are three main types of torque converters in cars. As the automotive industry advanced, a different kind of torque converter overtook the prevailing one. Nevertheless, some of the common torque converters include the following.
Non-lockup torque converter
This torque converter type is the most basic and commonly found in older vehicles. It does not have a locking mechanism to connect the engine to the transmission, which means that there is always some slip between the two.
When the slip occurs, it can result in some loss of power and cause the engine to run at higher RPMs than necessary.
Lockup torque converter
A lockup torque converter has a clutch that engages at a certain speed to connect the engine and transmission directly without any slip. This improves fuel efficiency and reduces heat buildup, which can extend the life of the transmission.
Lockup torque converters are more common in modern vehicles and are typically found in higher-end models.
Variable geometry torque converter:
A variable geometry torque converter has a set of vanes that can change their angle to adjust the torque multiplication ratio. This allows the converter to operate more efficiently at different speeds and loads, resulting in better performance and fuel efficiency.
Variable geometry torque converters are typically found in high-performance vehicles and heavy-duty applications.
In addition to these main types, there are also hybrid and electric torque converters that are used in hybrid and electric vehicles, respectively. These converters use electric motors and other advanced technologies to optimize power transfer and improve efficiency.
What is the Use of a Torque Converter?
A torque converter is a transmission fluid coupling device that is commonly used in automatic transmissions to transmit generated power from the engine to the transmission.
The component transfers power from the engine to the transmission while allowing the engine to continue running even when the vehicle is stopped or idling.
Furthermore, the main function of a torque converter is to help multiply the torque generated by the engine at low speeds to provide enough power to move the vehicle from a standstill.
At higher speeds, the torque converter can also provide a smooth transition between gears without needing a clutch, making driving easier and more comfortable.
Additionally, since the torque converter can absorb some of the shock and vibration that occur during gear changes, it helps to reduce wear and tear on the transmission and drivetrain.
Torque Converter Parts Name and Short Descriptions
A torque converter consists of several parts that work together to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. Some of the critical parts of a torque converter include the following.
Impeller
The impeller is the first part of the torque converter that comes into contact with the transmission fluid. It is driven by the engine and rotates the fluid inside the converter. The centrifugal force moves the fluid outward as it spins alongside the engine.
The blades of the torque converter impeller are constructed in such a manner that the fluid is directed toward the turbine blades. Typically, it performs the function of a centrifugal pump, sucking fluid out of the automatic transmission and delivering it to the turbine.
Turbine
The turbine is the second part of the torque converter and is connected to the transmission input shaft. As the fluid exits the impeller and enters the torque converter turbine, it causes the turbine to rotate, which drives the transmission.
The turbine’s blades are constructed in such a way that they can totally alter the direction in which the fluid strikes them. The fluid’s shift in direction causes the blades to move in the impeller’s direction.
Stator
The torque converter stator is a stationary part of the torque converter that sits between the impeller and the turbine. It redirects the fluid flow from the turbine back to the impeller, which increases torque and efficiency.
Lockup Clutch
The lockup clutch is a clutch mechanism that connects the impeller and the turbine directly, bypassing the fluid coupling. This reduces slippage and increases efficiency, thereby improving fuel economy.
Torque converter housing
The torque converter housing is a protective cover that encloses the impeller, turbine, and stator. It is usually made of aluminum and provides a rigid support for the other torque converter components.
Each of these parts plays a crucial role in the operation of a torque converter. Together, they allow for smooth power transfer from the engine to the transmission, resulting in smooth acceleration and efficient operation.
In other words, it is important to keep every single part of the torque converter in perfect condition due to their contribution to the transmission’s operation.
FAQs
Q: What are the 3 components parts of the torque converter?
The impeller, turbine, and stator are the three main components of the torque converter in a vehicle. The impeller is responsible for drawing transmission fluid into the torque converter as its blade spins, thereby creating a vortex that moves the fluid through the converter.
Meanwhile, the turbine relies on the fluid from the impeller to trigger its rotation in order to transmit the vehicle’s engine power to the transmission. Lastly, the stator is responsible for redirecting the fluid from the turbine back to the impeller, thereby boosting the torque converter’s efficiency.
Q: Can you rebuild a torque converter?
Of course, it is possible to repair or rebuild a torque converter. However, the process of rebuilding a torque converter can be somewhat complex.
Special equipment are required for cutting the component, measuring, gluing, and assembling the clutch discs, as well as the entire quality control. Repairing a torque converter at a transmission shop can cost around $600 – $1,000.
Q: What connects the torque converter to the transmission?
The input shaft connects the torque converter to the transmission in a car. The component is a rotating shaft that helps to transfer power to the transmission from the torque converter, thereby enabling the transmission to engage and disengage gears to power the wheels.
The input shaft is a vital component; hence it is made of high-quality steel or other relatively durable materials. It is essential to state that a malfunctioning input shaft will hinder the process of engaging and disengaging gears, leading to serious mechanical issues.
Q: Does transmission fluid go through the torque converter?
Yes, transmission fluid goes through the torque converter in order to enable the system function properly. The fluid helps to ensure proper cooling and lubrication of the torque converter and other transmission components, thereby preventing overheating and minimizing premature wear.
A low or contaminated transmission fluid level can result in torque converter malfunction, which further leads to reduced fuel efficiency, poor performance, and even transmission failure.
Q: What type of oil goes in torque converter?
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the oil that goes into the torque converter. The oil is formulated with specific features such as excellent flow properties, high resistance to foaming and oxidation, and low-temperature viscosity to enable seamless shifting and proper lubrication.
Nonetheless, it is essential to note that the type of ATF to be used for a car’s torque converter will depend on the type of transmission, operating temperature range, and the car manufacturer’s specifications.
Final words
The torque converter is an essential system in an automatic transmission vehicle. Therefore, the importance of keeping the components in good condition cannot be overemphasized.
Having read about the various torque converter parts and their functions, it is vital to engage in regular inspection and maintenance of the components. This will enable your car’s transmission system to deliver optimal satisfaction as you drive.
Also, ensure to replace the parts when there’s a malfunction that requires a complete change of the faulty component. In other cases, you may want to find out if what you need is a torque converter repair.