1. Fluid Couplings and Torque Converters

2. Introduction
Engine and Transmission needs to be automatically coupled and uncoupled
Uses Torque Converter to multiply torque and transmit power
Components
Impeller
Turbine
Stator

3. Fluid Coupling
Fluid travels either in a rotary or vortex motion

4. Impeller turns Tubine
Turbine
Impeller

5. Fluid drives turbine at an angle

6. Difference in speed creates a turbulence

7. Components Flexplate drives T.C. Torque Converter Hub drives oil pump
Impeller drives Turbine
Turbine drives input shaft
Input shaft drives Clutch Hub

8. Vanes are curved to accelerate fluid flow

10. Rear Wheel Drive Input shaft directly connects to turbine with splines
Input shaft is usually hollow for lock up operation

11. Front Wheel Drive
Turbine Shaft drives Input Shaft

12. Stator Operation Stator assembly mounts on One-way clutch.
Stator multiplies torque
At 90% speed ratio, the stator
rotates same speed as turbine
and impeller and “coupling phase”
occurs.

13. Early Converter were repairable
Older converters had drains

14. One Way Clutch

15. Chrysler TCC Release pressure disengages clutch plate
Venting pressure causes lock up

16. Ford Lock Up
Clutch Piston hub splines directly to
the turbine

17. GM TCC
First used in 1980, Applied by TCC Solenoid

18. Vane curvature controls amount of multiplication

19. Converter Operation
Stator redirects fluid back into impeller to multiply force
More torque happens at lower rpms.
At higher rpm, components equalize