We at PDQ transmission parts have talked often about torque converters, but it just dawned on us that we have never explained how to install one if you should find it necessary to do so. Well we are going to correct that omission today. Take notes and here we go.
THINGS YOU WILL NEED
Torque wrench
Torque converter
Jack stands
transmission jack
5 quarts of transmission fluid (or more depending on your vehicle specs)
HOW TO INSTALL A TORQUE CONVERTER
Raise your vehicle on a vehicle lift or put it on jack stands.
Drain the transmission fluid from your vehicle. You can do this by simply removing the transmission fluid pan.
Disconnect the battery and remove the starter so you have easier access to the converter bolts.
Remove the engines driveshaft; do this by removing the bolts that fasten the U-joints to the differential.
Support the transmission on transmission jack. Once it is supported then remove the bell housing bolts.
Remove the transmission. Make sure you disconnect all lines and linkages first. Depending on your vehicle you may have to first remove the exhaust system.
Remove the torque converter from the transmission; be warned that this will be full of transmission fluid so it will get messy.
Take your new torque converter, fill it with transmission fluid and replace it on the transmission. Once it is in place rotate it slightly to engage the internal spines.
Bolt everything back in place in reverse order.
Replace bell housing bolts with transmission sitting on transmission jack.
Replace the driveshaft, connect the batter and starter, and replace the transmission fluid pan with new transmission fluid.
Lower the vehicle and you are ready to go.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
Use your vehicle manual to find out the best place for your jack stands. Damage can be done underneath if you do not use the proper places for a jack.
When everything is dismantled check individual pieces for cracks and chips. Replace if necessary.
Sand rust off of the crankshaft before installing the new converter.
Check your maintenance manual for torque specification; you don’t want to over-tighten or under-tighten your bolts.
AND THAT’S ALL THERE IS TO IT
We say that a bit facetiously. Replacing a torque converter is not an easy job, and if the person doing the repair is not knowledgeable, chances are more damage will be done. Our advice….have a pro do it if you are unsure about this installation job. Too much can go wrong if you do not know what you are doing.
As always, the pros at PDQ Transmission Parts are here to serve.
