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Function
The torque converter
connects and transfers
power from the engines
crankshaft to the
transmission input shaft. It
can act as a clutch to stop
this power flow when the
vehicle stops. The
converter can also multiply
torque to improve vehicle
performance.
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1
Internal Components
Modern lockup converters have
four major internal components:
An impeller,
A turbine,
A stator, and
A clutch plate with lining.
Other minor components
complete the converter.
Older converters had three
major elements.
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2
Four Element Converters
Impeller
3
Impeller Construction
Turbine
4
Turbine Construction
Stator
The stator can be a stationary
member. It has fins and a portion
of the fluid guide ring. The stator
also has a one-way clutch that is
connected to the reaction shaft of
the transmission pump. The one-
way clutch allows the stator to
rotate freely in the direction of
engine-rotation, but prevents
rotation in the opposite direction.
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5
Fluid Flow
11
12
6
The Need For a Stator
13
Stator Operation
During low turbine speeds, the
fluid flow strikes the inside of
the stator fins. This locks the
one-way clutch, and the stator
fins turn the fluid flow in the
direction of impeller rotation.
At higher turbine speeds,
fluid flow strikes the back of the
stator fins, and the stator rotates
along with the turbine and
impeller. This is the Coupling
Phase.
Animation: TC Operation 14
7
Torque Multiplication
Cooler Flow
16
8
The Need for a
Converter Clutch
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