What Is A Torque Converter

Essentially, the torque converter in your car is the same as a vehicle’s clutch with a manual transmission. Unlike a manual transmission, though, the converter uses fluid to power the transmission. This is done to prevent your engine from stalling.

Everything You Need To Know About Torque Converters

If you currently have an automatic transmission vehicle, then you already use torque converters daily. These converters are some of the most complex parts in the internal areas of your vehicle. The engine connects to the transmission with a clutch, so the vehicle can come to a full stop without harming the engine. Vehicles that feature an automatic transmission have something else that connects the engine to the transmission: a torque converter.

You will find this doughnut-shaped component attached directly between the transmission and engine. Two series of curved blades, facing opposite directions, work inside the converter. The inside will be filled with transmission fluid that helps transfer power from the engine to the transmission. Torque converters generally work with maximum efficiency by generating as much energy transmission as possible, while reducing any heat buildup.

How Torque Converters Work In Cars

Where a manual transmission vehicle makes use of a clutch, an automatic transmission vehicle substitutes that with a torque converter for the same purpose.

In order for the vehicle to operate it is important that the engine is linked to the rear wheels through such a mechanism that it can be connected so that the vehicle moves or disconnected so that it will stay motionless while the engine runs to provide other functions.

Manual vehicles make use of the clutch to link and delink the transmission from the engine, and automatic vehicles use a fluid mechanism like the torque converter sitting in between the transmission and the engine.

Common Torque Converter Problems

Several issues can arise as a torque converter gets older and experiences some wear and tear. High levels of slippage can cause these parts to overheat. This can also damage the elastomer seals that keep the fluid inside the converters. If you happen to notice that the converter is not working as efficiently as it once was, it is possible that the part is experiencing some blade fragmentation and/or deformation. Your car’s gas mileage dwindling is a warning sign that this may be occurring.

The stator clutch can break, at times. If certain elements of the clutch become permanently locked, you’ll experience a large drop in fuel efficiency. If the clutch completely breaks off, the vehicle may have trouble moving under its own power.

Torque Converters For Sale In Phoenix, AZ

Founded in 1979, Road Runner Converters has been making top-notch torque converters in the valley of the sun ever since! Focus on quality of these products has made the company a top choice in the area for decades. Road Runner promises that all torque converters are made with the finest materials on the market. Torque converters are available for purchase online, as well. This is a great option, especially in today’s world with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Street performance converters, diesel performance and towing converters round out one the best inventory selections in the valley.

Road Runner offerings include all of the following items:

How Much Does A Torque Converter Replacement Cost?

Costs for a professional torque converter replacement can vary based on the labor rate at automotive shop locations. Labor costs should run between $400 and $700 at most shops. The total price for parts and labor should range from $600 to around $1,000. If this seems too costly, doing the replacement yourself remains an option, and cheaper alternative.

The average cost for a DIY replacement is $400, while a typical average cost for a professional service is around $850. At the time of a torque converter replacement, a change of the transmission fluid is recommended. Transmission flush costs range from $125-$250.