Torque Converters

Torque Converters
Torque Convertors 1
In this section you will learn
about:
• Torque Converters
Torque Converters • Why a Torque Converter is
important for an automatic
transmission
• Troubleshooting
• Testing
Torque Convertors 2
WATCH:
 Torque Converter – How does it work? (8:30)
-Video is housed in the Student Resources folder on Blackboard
Torque Convertors 3
Torque Converters –
Introduction
Introduction to Torque Convertors
Torque Convertors 4
Introduction
A torque converter is an automatic fluid drive. It transmits engine torque by means

of hydraulic force, shifting smoothly through an infinite number of speeds.
Torque Convertors 5
Introduction
The automatic transmission of an automobile
automatically shifts gears in response to torque
requirements in addition to the automatic
response of the torque converter, which is part of
the automobile's automatic transmission system.
Torque Convertors 6
Introduction
To compare a torque converter with a hydrostatic drive, use this rule of
thumb:
Hydrostatic drives are driven by fluids at high pressure
but at relatively low velocity.
Torque converters are driven at low pressure but at high velocity.
Here are the formulas:
• Hydrostatic Drive = High Pressure + Low Velocity
• Torque Converter = Low Pressure + High Velocity
Torque Convertors 7
Introduction
A Torque Converter is ideal for jobs with:

• Momentary heavy loads
• Frequent stops
• Shuttle shifting
• Driving place-to-place
(Typical Jobs a Loader might do)
Torque Convertors 8
Basic Principles
In the section you will learn the basic principles and how different
Torque Convertors functions.
Watch the video in the Student Resource Folder.
Torque Convertors 9
WATCH:
 How does the Torque Converter in the Automatic Transmission
work? (19:05)
-Video is housed in the Student Resources folder on Blackboard
Torque Convertors 10
Basic Principles
Basic Principles of a Fluid Coupling
HOW IT WORKS
To understand a torque converter,
we first must look at a basic fluid
coupling.
The basic principles of all fluid
couplings are shown here.
At the top, a fluid at high velocity(A)
strikes a turbine (C) and forces it to
turn, driving the wheel (B). Thus C-Fluids at High Velocities Can
A-Hose
torque is transmitted by a fluid. B-Wheel Transmit Power
D-One Part Can Drive Another
by Force of Air-or Oil
Basic Principles
This principle is used in a fluid coupling as follows:
Inside an oil-filled housing (A) are two parts: the driving
half, or pump (impeller), and the driven half, or turbine.
A-Fluid Coupling C-Bowl is Spun and Fluid Spills out E-Pump

B-Fluid Lies Level in Bowl D-Torque is Transmitted to Upper Bowl by Force of Fluid F-Turbine
Basic Principles
B and D explains how the flow of oil drives the turbine:
• In "B," fluid is placed in a bowl and lies level.
• In "C," the bowl is spun rapidly, and centrifugal force causes the
fluid to climb up and spill over the outside edge of the bowl.

Basic Principles
• In "D," another bowl is placed down over the first one. Now when the
bowls are spun, an axial flow or circuit is created and turning force is
transmitted between the driving bowl and the driven bowl.
• Torque is thus transmitted, but it is not increased.

Basic Principles
Torque Convertor
A torque converter looks much

like the fluid coupling that was just
described. The main difference is
that the torque converter has - in A-Turbine
B-Pump (Impeller)
addition to the driving pump and C-Ton drive wheels
the driven turbine - a set of blades D-Stator
E-Pump
or vanes called a stator. F-Turbine
G-From Engine
H-Stator
Basic Principles
Vortex and Rotary Flow in a Fluid Coupling
INCREASING THE TORQUE
Remember that the pump is driven by the
engine, while the turbine receives fluid
energy from the pump and sends it to the
drive wheels.
• Centrifugal force sets up a continuous
circular flow in the coupling.
• Circular flow of oil between the pump
and turbine is called vortex flow.
• Flow is set up around the pump and
turbine to form a coupling; this is called A-Rotary Oil Flow
rotary flow. B-Driving Member Pump (Impeller)
C-Vortex Oil Flow
Basic Principles
Oil Flow Through the Pump, Turbine, and Stator
A-Rotation D-Turbine F-Exit H-Pump

B-Entrance E-Stator (Stationary G-Rotation
Let's look at the flow of oil in the converter during two cycles:
Image shows how oil emerges from the turbine in reverse compared to pump
rotation. Unless this oil flow is turned around, it will cause a loss of power.
Basic Principles
Oil Flow Through Pump, Turbine, and Stator
A-Rotation D-Turbine F-Exit H-Pump

B-Entrance E-Stator (Stationary G-Rotation
As the same volume of oil must squeeze through these funnel-like passages, the oil stream
will speed up when it leaves the turbine. This speed is used to increase torque by directing
it against the stator, which acts as a fluid lever or fulcrum. The stator changes the direction
of flow and sends the oil into the pump in the same direction as pump rotation
Basic Principles
Stator as a Fluid Lever
Stator:
• A stream of oil aimed at a flat surface
splashes off at various angles. The oil
can be made to flow more smoothly
by curving the entrance and can be
reversed by more curving, with a
resulting increase in force, indicated
by the large arrow.
• The stator has curved blades (as in C),
which the oil strikes as it leaves the
A-Flat Surface
turbine. These blades turn the oil back B-Curved Entrance
in the direction of pump rotation. C-Curved Blade
Basic Principles
Flow Direction Is Reversed by the Stator Vanes
Now that the stream of oil is
moving in the same direction
but at a greater velocity, it
enters the pump smoothly Its
velocity is added to that
developed in the pump so that
the total velocity at the pump
exits has been increased.
A-Turbine Vane C-Direction of Engine Rotation

B-Pump Vane D-Stator Vane
Basic Principles
Flow Direction Is Reversed by the Stator Vanes
To change the direction of
oil flow, the stator must be
stationary during the time
an increase in torque is
desired.
A-Turbine Vane C-Direction of Engine Rotation

B-Pump Vane D-Stator Vane
Basic Principles
How Vortex Flow Changes to Rotary Flows as Torque is Reduced
Torque is increased as long as the

engine is accelerating to get the
machine under way. But as the
engine speeds up, the turbine also
speeds up, which causes the
vortex flow of oil in the converter
to decrease. At the same time, the
rotary flow increases.
A-Turbine
B-Pump
C-While Torque is Increasing more Flow-pump is Turning Faster
D-While Torque is decreasing More Rotary Flow-pump and
Turbine
Torque Reach Same Speed
Convertors 22
Basic Principles
How Vortex Flow Changes to Rotary Flows as Torque is Reduced
The torque converter now

acts as a simple fluid
coupling, sending the
same torque it receives on
to the drive wheels.
A-Turbine
B-Pump
C-While Torque is Increasing more Flow-pump is Turning Faster
D-While Torque is decreasing More Rotary Flow-pump and
Turbine
Torque Reach Same Speed
Convertors 23
Basic Principles
WHAT IS TORQUE CONVERTER STALL SPEED?
Stall speed is the point when a converter has reached its
maximum fluid flow and torque multiplication has peaked.
Stall speed is determined by the number, the shape, and the
angle of the vanes in the impeller, turbine , and stator. By
changing the angle of the vanes, stall speed is changed and
can allow the engine to run at peak performance.
Basic Principles
LOCK-UP TORQUE CONVERTER
Automobiles introduced lock-up torque converters years ago
to improve fuel efficiency. Even with very light loads, there is
always some "slip" in a torque converter. If pump and turbine
were turning at the same speed, there would be no vortex
flow and no transfer of power.
Basic Principles
Complete Torque Convertor Transmission
A-Convertor Section
B-Controls
C-Range Gear Section
D-Final Drive Section
The torque converter is but one part of the complete transmission.

The major components of a complete transmission are listed above.
Basic Principles
Twin-Turbine Torque Converter
A-Second Turbine F-Forward Clutch K-Freewheel Clutch
B-Converter Pump G-High Clutch L-Converter Stator
C-Second-Turbine Drive H-Transfer Driven Gear M-Input
D-First-Turbine Drive I- Output N-First Turbine
E-Planetary J-Transfer Drive Gear
Convertor Section
We have looked at torque converters with three
elements: one pump, one turbine, and one stator.
Now we will examine a twin-turbine model which
has one pump and one stator, but two turbines
(first and second).
Basic Principles
Here is how the two turbines work together:
When torque demand is high, the freewheel clutch is
engaged and the first turbine, assisted by the second
turbine, drives the gears. When the machine speeds
up, torque demand drops. Then the second turbine
takes over the entire load and the freewheel clutch
disengages the first turbine.
Basic Principles
Since torque is reduced and increased

automatically in the torque converter,
only a few gear sets are normally
required in the transmission.
Basic Principles
FINAL DRIVE SECTION

The final drive section includes the transfer drive
gear, transfer driven gear, and output shaft. The
output shaft provides for one or two outputs from
the same common shaft. Two outputs can be used
to propel a four-wheel drive machine.
Basic Principles
• HYDRAULIC CONTROL SYSTEM

• The hydraulic control system uses oil to do these
jobs:
• Oil flow lubricates and cools the parts.
• Oil pressure engages the clutches.
• Oil velocity drives the turbines.
Torque Converters – Oil
Circuits
In the section you will learn the different Oil Circuits
Oil Circuits
Hydraulic Control System for Torque Converter
Transmission
A-Torque Converter
B-Converter-Pressure Regulator Valve
C-Oil Filter
D-Lubrication Valve
E-Planetary Clutches
F-Oil Pump
G-Selector Control Valve
H-Main-Pressure Regulator
I-Oil Cooler
J-Oil pump and Filter Circuit
K-Main-Pressure and Convertor-in Circuit
L-Convertor-out Circuit
M-Selector Control Valve Circuit
Oil Circuits
Hydraulic Control System for Torque Converter
Transmission
There are four basic circuits as shown here:
• Oil Pump and Filter Circuit (shown by blue
lines).
• Main-Pressure Regulator Valve and Converter-
In Circuit (shown by red lines).
• Converter-Out, Cooler, and Lubrication Circuit
(shown by dotted blue lines).
• Selector Control Valve Circuit (shown by
dotted red lines).
Oil Pump and Filter Circuit
Oil is drawn from the transmission reservoir by
the oil pump. The pump delivers its entire
output to a full-flow oil filter for cleaning. From
the oil filter, the oil supply is sent to the main-
pressure circuit. Torque Convertors 34
Oil Circuits
Main-pressure Regulator Valve and Convertor-in Circuit
The main-pressure regulator valve provides pressure for the planetary
clutch packs, directs oil to the selector control valve, and supplies
pressurized oil into the torque converter. A converter pressure
regulator valve in the converter-in line limits the oil pressure.
Convertor-out, Cooler, and Lubrication Circuit
The torque converter is continuously filled with oil during operation.
Rotation of the converter pump imparts energy to the oil which, in
turn, drives the turbines. The oil then flows between the stator vanes,
which redirect it to the pump.
Oil Circuits
Selector Control Valve Circuit
Pressurized oil from the main-pressure regulator valve flows into the
selector valve bore and surrounds the valve in the area of the detent
notches. From this area, main pressure oil is available for operating the
low, high, and reverse range planetary clutches.
Moving the selector valve allows oil to change the selected clutch line,
to engage the clutch.
Basic Principles and Oil Circuits Summary
Features of a Torque Convertor:
1. Multiply torque.
2. Provide infinite speed ranges.
3. Shift smoothly and automatically.
4. Cushion shock loads on drivelines.
5. Help to dampen vibrations
Torque Converters –
Troubleshooting
In the section you will learn how to troubleshoot
Troubleshooting – Common Issues
As with any transmission, diagnosis is very machine-specific. You must
always use the technical manual for the machine you're diagnosing.
However, all torque converters share enough in common to justify a few
general comments:
• Any complaints will typically be heat, noise, or power loss.
• Air in the system will create excessive heat and noise. This could be
caused by low oil, leaks, or obstructions.
• Contamination can cause catastrophic damage. Do everything possible
to keep oil clean.
• If the overrunning clutch for the stator fails to hold, torque will be low.
Troubleshooting – Common Issues
• If the overrunning clutch for the stator fails to freewheel, top speed will
be reduced.
• On a twin-turbine torque converter, the same two comments apply to
the overrunning clutch for the first turbine.
• The technical manual will include some pressure checks - This is vital
information.
Troubleshooting – Stall Tests
Turbines for Twin-Turbine Convertor
• Some manufacturers do not
recommend using a stall test
because it quickly generates
excessive heat.
• A stall test put full engine
power into the torque
converter with zero output.
• Doing this longer than a few
seconds could cause damage.
A-First Turbine C-Vanes
B-Second Turbine
Troubleshooting – Best Practices
Pump for Torque Convertor
Some torque converters
contain parts made of
lightweight aluminum alloys.
Converter housings are usually
made of cast aluminum.
Be sure to handle all converter
parts carefully to prevent
nicking, scratching, and
denting.
Troubleshooting – Best Practices
Pump for Torque Convertor
Use these rules to help prevent
failures:
1. Be sure the oil is kept clean.
2. Service the system at proper
intervals.
3. Repair it only if you are qualified.
4. Use all special tools
recommended.
5. See the machine technical
manual for details.
Troubleshooting - Symptoms
The troubleshooting given here will cover four common
symptoms:
1. Overheating
2. Noise
3. Leaks
4. Machine Response
Troubleshooting – First Steps
Preliminary Inspection
The operator and service technician can use the eyes, ears, and even the nose to
head off trouble before serious damage is done. Here's how:
Look:
• Check oil levels. Refer to the operator's manual.
• Check gauges. When starting, running, or stopping, watch the gauges; they
tell the story in terms of pressure and temperature.
• Inspect for leaks. Leaks, crimped oil lines, and clogged filters - all affect the
converter output.
• Examine the oil. Look for water, dirt, and particles from the converter and the
clutch plates.
Troubleshooting – First Steps
Listen:
• Unusual noises. Listen for squealing from a stuck valve, grinding or grating
sounds from inside the converter.
Smell:
• Overheating. A strong odor of overheated oil is a major trouble sign. Find
the cause at once.
• Because one trouble can have the same symptoms as another, only good
instruments in the hands of a trained service technician can detect the
difference.
• Once trouble has been detected in the field, check out the unit with the
proper testing tools.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Overheating
• Overheating is a major problem in converter operation. It is affected
by the design, the type of work, the operator, the air temperature,
and the condition of the unit.
• Overheating can cause a loss of power and can damage seals and
gaskets and warp metal parts.
• A converter may overheat if the work is heavy - not always, but
heavier work will generally mean more heat.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Overheating
• Air in the converter will also cause overheating. Torque converters can work
properly only if they are filled with fluid. Air mixed with the oil will cause poor
performance, overheating, and possibly serious damage.
• Air may enter the system:
1. If the fluid in the reserve tank (if used) is low enough to permit the charging
pump to suck air.
2. If a moderately low level of oil permits sucking of air while the machine is
working on steep slopes.
3. If there is a leak in the suction line pump gaskets or O-rings (suction leaks
may be too small to show up by outside leaking of oil).
4. If the oil or filters are changed or when the lines are opened for any reason.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Overheating Review
• Overheating is not only a major problem, but is usually a symptom of an
underlying issue.
• Although normal operating temperatures can be exceeded very rapidly, a
machine using a torque converter matched to the job should not exceed
its normal temperature when properly used.
• The cause of overheating may be found in one or more areas outside of
the converter.
(continued on next slide)

Troubleshooting
Symptom: Overheating Review
• Before deciding that the converter is the cause of overheating, check
these possibilities:
• Air in fluid system.
• Lack of cooling - plugged cooler core, low coolant level, defective water pump
(water-cooled systems only).
• Low fluid level - clogged filter, excessive leakage past converter seals,
restricted oil line, defective oil pump.
• Slipping clutches in planetary gear sets.
• Failure of the converter may cause the overheating. Worn edges and
pits on vanes of pump, stator, or turbines will reduce their efficiency.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Noise
• Unlike overheating, which can be tested, noise is hard to
explain to another person.
• A new operator or service technician may never hear a noise
directly related to a converter failure.
• An unusual noise heard by an experienced operator or service
technician may be the first sign of damage in the converter.
(Continued on next slide)
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Noise
• Worn or dry bearings often produce a hissing noise that will
develop into a bumping or thudding sound when they
completely fail.
• Other sources of noise are worn gears, worn or bent shafts,
excessive shaft endplay, shafts misaligned with the engine,
and worn freewheel clutches. All these noises mean a
possible converter failure.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Leaks
• Converter leaks can be one of two types:
• Internal leaks
• External leaks
Internal Leaks:
• Defined as leaks within the converter.
• Converter uses large amounts of oil at high velocity.
• Leaks may be caused by the wrong torque on converter bolts.
• On some converters, the housing that covers the converter can be removed
to determine if a leak has occurred in the converter. Check by starting the
engine and operating the transmission until the oil leak shows up.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Leaks
External Leaks:
• Defined as those occurring outside the converter but still
affecting its operation.
• These include leaks at cooler lines, filter lines, and
pressure or temperature gauge fittings.
• Visually check all fittings and oil lines for leakage.
Troubleshooting
Symptom: Machine Response
• Normally a malfunction in the converter will affect the machine's
response to load and speed changes.
• A machine that lacks power and acceleration at low speed may have a
turbine freewheel clutch failure.
• Changes in hydraulic pressure, flow, and temperature also affect the
performance of the converter, and thus affect the machine's
performance.
CLICK to view Image #1
Torque Converters – Testing
In the section you will learn how to test a Torque Convertor
Testing
As in troubleshooting, Pressure and Temperature Checkpoints on a
Typical Torque Converter Transmission
testing is most effective
when the engine, converter,
and gear train are regarded
as a unit, one part affecting
the other.
A-Test Converter-Out Oil C-Test Main Oil Pressure

Temperature D-Test Lubrication Oil Pressure
B-Test Converter-Out Oil Pressure
Testing
Before testing, several checks should be made.
Before Testing:
1. Check the fluid level. Be sure it is not above or below the required level.
2. Start the engine and warm the engine and transmission to operating
temperature.
3. Provide adequate ventilation if starting the machine indoors. Carbon
monoxide - a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas - is present in the
exhaust of all engines. Be sure you have plenty of good fresh air.
(continued on next page)
Testing
4. Shift into each gear and operate for a minimum of 15 seconds,
checking the selector valve detent positions against the related
positions on the shift indicator (if equipped).
5. Be sure the PTO is disengaged. Look ahead and to the rear before
starting. Make sure no people or obstructions are ahead of you or
behind you.
6. Never allow the transmission to heat up beyond the maximum
operating temperature.
Torque Converters
End of the Presentation
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Torque Converters – Troubleshooting
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Torque Converters

A torque converter is an automatic fluid drive. It transmits engine torque by means

A Torque Converter is ideal for jobs with:

A-Fluid Coupling C-Bowl is Spun and Fluid Spills out E-Pump

A-Fluid Coupling C-Bowl is Spun and Fluid Spills out E-Pump

A-Fluid Coupling C-Bowl is Spun and Fluid Spills out E-Pump

A torque converter looks much

A-Rotation D-Turbine F-Exit H-Pump

A-Rotation D-Turbine F-Exit H-Pump

A-Turbine Vane C-Direction of Engine Rotation

A-Turbine Vane C-Direction of Engine Rotation

Torque is increased as long as the

The torque converter now

The torque converter is but one part of the complete transmission.

Since torque is reduced and increased

FINAL DRIVE SECTION

• HYDRAULIC CONTROL SYSTEM

(continued on next slide)

(Continued on next slide)

CLICK to view Image #1

A-Test Converter-Out Oil C-Test Main Oil Pressure

(continued on next page)

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