How to Replace a Torque Converter in Auto Transmission

There are many automatic transmissions and they all have one part in common, a torque converter.

A torque converter is the part of the transmission that transfers the energy from the engine to the transmission. Replacing a torque converter in an auto transmission yourself can save you the expense of paying someone to do it for you. There are a lot of steps to this procedure, but with the proper steps the task can be completed by yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Basic mechanics tool set Two floor jacks Pry bar Jack stands Torque wrench Transmission fluid Repair manual (Haynes or Chilton's)

Instructions

1. Jack the car up and secure it with jack stands.

2. Remove the torque converter shield at the front of the transmission. This is usually held on by several bolts.

3. Using the pry bar to rotate the torque converter, remove all of the torque converter bolts. There will be between eight and twelve bolts in total.

4. Remove all drive shafts and axles, depending on whether the vehicle is front- or rear-wheel drive.

5. Remove all of the bolts securing the front of the transmission to the engine. There will be between ten and fifteen bolts total.

6. Secure the transmission with a floor jack and remove any remaining mounts holding the transmission in place. There will be one or two mounts on a front-wheel drive and usually only one cross member holding on a rear-wheel drive transmission.

7. Slowly lower the transmission, checking for any wires that will need disconnecting to completely remove the transmission.

8. Remove the old torque converter from the transmission by wiggling it back and forth while pulling it.

9. Install the new torque converter by sitting it on the input shaft and spinning it while lightly hitting it with the palm of your hand. Make certain it fully seats on the input shaft to prevent damage.

10. Put the transmission in place by reconnecting any wires and lining the torque converter up with the studs on the engine's flex plate.

11. Install the torque converter bolts, torquing them down to the manufacturer specifications listed in your repair manual.

12. Install any axles or drive shafts that were removed during removal of the transmission. Typically, these axles are simply pressed in by hand.

13. Secure the transmission by reinstalling the bolts that connect it to the engine. Torque these bolts down to the manufacturer specifications listed in your repair manual.

14. Reinstall any mounts or cross members that were removed during the removal of the transmission. Reinstall the torque converter shield.

15. Lower the vehicle to the ground and start it. Allow your vehicle to warm up and check the transmission fluid level. Add fluid as needed per your repair manual.

16. Check your vehicle for any fluid leaks and test drive you vehicle to make certain it is operating properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the transmission fluid specified for your vehicle. Always have someone near you while removing the transmission in case it falls. Double-check wiring while reinstalling the transmission, as a severed wire can cause shifting problems.