Torque Converter
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2015 Honda Crosstour, 2014 Honda Crosstour, 2013 Honda Crosstour, 2012 Honda Crosstour, and 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The torque converter is a fluid coupling, which allows the engine to spin independently of the transmission yet connects them together as needed. It is an assembly that consists of an impeller (pump), turbine, stator and lock-up clutch, which uses automatic transmission fluid (ATF) to transmit engine power to the input shaft (mainshaft), and acts as a flywheel to help the engine run smoothly. During certain conditions the lock-up clutch is engaged by the PCM to mechanically connect the engine's crankshaft with the input shaft (mainshaft) which improves fuel economy. Around the outside of the torque converter housing is a ring gear which meshes with the starter ring gear, used by the starter to start the engine.