Torque Converter
The transmission uses a four-element torque converter to transmit and multiply torque. It contains the standard three elements which transmit and multiply torque:
- Impeller
- Turbine
- Reactor
- Torque Converter Clutch
The torque converter clutch increases fuel economy in 3rd and 4th gears.
The operation of the torque converter components is as follows:
- Rotation of the converter housing and impeller set the fluid in motion.
- The turbine reacts to the fluid motion from the impeller, transferring rotation to the geartrain.
- The reactor redirects fluid going back into the impeller, allowing for torque multiplication.
The addition of a torque converter clutch to the torque converter provides a mechanical link between the converter housing and the engine, allowing for direct transfer of power from the engine to the geartrain.
The torque converter clutch is applied and released by fluid pressure, which is controlled by the powertrain control module through a torque converter clutch solenoid in the main control valve body.