Technical Support
Proper Installation of a Torque Converter
1. Always lubricate the converter hub and pilot. It is recommended to use a new drive plate. It is imperative to replace the drive plate if there is any evidence of bending, cracking, or other imperfection.
2. Fit the converter to the engine. Look at the fit, checking for excessive wear on the crankshaft area. Remove. Fill the converter with as much transmission fluid as possible.
3. Assemble the converter onto the transmission. Rotate the converter. On most applications you will feel it drop into place. Continue to rotate. A second drop will occur. You must be certain that the converter has been turned more than one full revolution to insure correct positioning on the stator/input/turbine shaft.
4. Install the bolts that attach the transmission assembly onto the engine. Then tighten the converter drive plate bolts. (Improper technique would allow the drive plate bolt tightening to draw the converter into place. This often mounts the converter ears on top of the pump gears, causing premature failure.) Install the transmission and rotate the converter to ensure proper alignment.
5. Some applications will not allow the above method of installation. In these instances, assemble the converter onto the transmission. Rotate the converter until it has dropped into place. When you have good tang engagement, mark the converter at the 12 o’clock position. Remove the converter without rotating. Mount the converter to the engine flywheel. Before installing the transmission, position the converter so that the mark is once again showing at 12 o’clock. Now bolt the transmission to the engine. This is not a foolproof method. It takes careful handling to reduce the chances of improper engagement.