Torque Converter: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mercury Mariner and 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The torque converter is a 4 element assembly. The torque converter contains an impeller, a turbine, a reactor and a torque converter clutch (TCC) for increased fuel economy. It couples the engine to the turbine shaft assembly, provides torque multiplication and absorbs engine shock of gear shifting.

The lock-up temperature for the torque converter is based upon initial transmission fluid temperature (TFT) at key on. If the TFT reads below 16°C (60°F), the converter will lock-up at 16°C (60°F). If the initial TFT reads 16°C (61°F), the converter will lock-up at 21°C (70°F). This warm-up phase continues until approximately 32°C (90°F), at which temperature the converter lock-up is available immediately.

At high temperatures, the converter lock-up is delayed to avoid conditions which might cause shudder. Delayed converter lock-up begins at 80°C (175°F).