How to Seal a Transmission Torque Converter in a 1992 Lexus ES300
The torque converter on a 1992 Lexus ES300 takes the place of a clutch assembly. The converter is mounted on the input shaft on the front side of the transmission. It multiplies the torque generated by the engine and transmits that torque to the transmission. The torque converter used in the ES300 has three main components: the pump propeller, stator and turbine runner. The outside casing of the torque converter must have a seal to ensure no fluid leaks out of the converter. Replacing this seal requires a lot of mechanical aptitude. If you do not know that much about an automatic transmission, it is best to have a technician perform this repair.
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Things You'll Need
- Rags
- Drain pan
- Transmission fluid
- O-ring seal
- Hub gasket
- Screwdriver set
- Plier set
- Ratchet and socket set
- Wrench set
Instructions
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1
Pull the torque converter off the front of the transmission. Set it on a bench with the front cover facing up. Remove the lock nuts from the cover bolts. Pull the cover off the face of the converter.
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2
Sit the cover facedown on the bench. Pry the O-ring gasket away from the cover using a flat-tip screwdriver. Push one section of the gasket up, then move around the diameter of the gasket, prying part of the gasket up. Pull up on the gasket once it has been loosened from its seat.
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3
Lubricate the new gasket will a little bit of transmission fluid before installing. Set the gasket in place and press down with your fingers. Place equal pressure around the diameter of the gasket to ensure it fully seats in position.
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4
Remove the thrust washer from the hub assembly. Pull off the hub assembly. Remove the hub gasket from the impeller hub with your fingers.
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5
Clean all parts of the torque converter before reassembly. Dump any old transmission fluid into the drain pan. Wipe off all parts with a rag before reassembly.
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6
Lubricate the hub gasket with transmission fluid. Sit the gasket back on the impeller hub. Push on the hub assembly and reinstall the thrust washers. Pour one quart of transmission fluid in the torque converter. Slide the cover of the torque converter back on the cover bolts. Tighten the lock nuts. Wipe down the outside of the torque converter before pushing it back on the input shaft of the transmission.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not allow the thrust washers or races to drop out of their position.
Inspect all parts for damage before reassembly.
Do not disassemble the stator assembly, because the fins or races of the stator can fall out. The stator assembly, races, thrust washers and sprang can be removed as a unit.
