Torque Converter Contamination Inspection

Torque Converter Contamination Inspection

CAUTION: Do not use water-based cleaners or mineral spirits to clean or flush the torque converter or transmission damage will occur. Use only clean automatic transmission fluid designated for the transmission and converter being serviced.

CAUTION: The torque converter drain plug and seal are not reusable. If equipped, discard the drain plug and seal, then install a new drain plug assembly.

1. If a new or remanufactured torque converter is not being installed, the following steps must be completed.

2. With the torque converter on a bench, pour a small amount of transmission fluid from the torque converter onto an absorbent white tissue or through a paper filter and examine the fluid.
3. Observe the color and odor of the fluid. The fluid should be red, not brown or black. Odor may indicate an overheating condition such as clutch disc or band failure.
4. Examine the stain on the tissue for evidence of particles (spec of any kind). Examine the fluid level indicator for signs of antifreeze (gum or varnish). If particles are present in the fluid or there is evidence of engine coolant or water, a new torque converter must be installed.
5. If there are no particles or contamination present, drain the remainder of the transmission fluid from the torque converter.
6. Add 1.9 liter (2 qt.) of clean automatic transmission fluid into the converter and agitate by hand.
7. Thoroughly drain the fluid.





8. If equipped, install a new torque converter drain plug.