Torque Converter: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION
The torque converter couples the engine to the turbine shaft. It also provides torque multiplication and absorbs engine shock of gear shifting.

COMPONENTS
The torque converter consists of an impeller, stator, turbine, converter clutch (damper piston), and converter cover. The torque converter clutch (TCC) couples the turbine hub and the spline. During lockup, the TCC slides on the turbine hub and is pressed against the converter cover. Torsional damper springs are provided in the TCC to absorb engine pulsation during lockup.

PISTON PLATE CLUTCH AND DAMPER ASSEMBLY
The piston plate clutch and damper assembly transmits engine power from the converter cover to the turbine during torque converter lockup. The piston plate clutch and damper assembly provides torsional damper springs to absorb shock during lockup and to absorb engine torque while locked.

CONVERTER COVER
The converter cover transmits power from the engine to the torque converter. The converter cover is bolted to the flywheel. The oil pump shaft is splined to the converter cover.

TURBINE
The turbine is splined to the drive sprocket turbine shaft and is driven by fluid from the impeller. The turbine can be locked to the converter cover when in the lockup mode.

IMPELLER
The impeller supplies torque multiplication together with the reactor. The impeller is driven by the converter cover.

REACTOR
The reactor is also called the stator. The reactor contains a one-way clutch to hold it stationary when reaction is required. The reactor, with the impeller, causes torque multiplication by hydraulic reaction.