Hello and welcome! My name is Fareed, and this blog is about car repair. I plan to write about smash repair, body work, painting and other aspects of the industry. I also hope to include a few posts that will help you assess whether or not something is wrong with your car. I have worked on my own car for years, and recently, I've been embraced as the neighbourhood mechanic -- all my friends come to me for help. I'm not a professional mechanic, but I feel confident sharing this info with you as I've been working on cars for years. I am happy you found my blog and hope that you enjoy reading!
Inside the automatic transmission fitted to your car or truck is a very special component known as a "torque converter." It's a crucial part that helps to convert the power provided by the engine into the appropriate gear according to the driving conditions. While this component is well-engineered and meant to last, it will need a certain amount of service to avoid potential problems. And to carry out this work, you will need special tools to go much further than a traditional oil change. What do you need to know about this process?
Understanding the Environment
An automatic transmission system relies on hydraulic power, and some of the components inside the torque converter will spin at high speed. The transmission fluid will move from one part of the converter to another and, as it does so, begin to accumulate some debris. Microscopic pieces of metal will inevitably wear away from some of those internal surfaces due to friction and will often stick to the internal walls of the converter housing. Some of the fluid will also adhere to these surfaces whenever the vehicle is switched off and can sometimes harden in place.
Dealing with a Growing Problem
Over time, these tiny particles of debris will build up, and if this issue is not addressed, could break away and damage some of the sensitive internal parts. This is why it's important to get rid of this accumulation as well as any hardened fluid that may be left inside.
Going Further
Unfortunately, traditional service is not enough, where the technician simply drains the old fluid and replaces it with new. That process relies on gravity and will certainly not get rid of any accumulation within the torque converter. This is why it's important to take the vehicle to a mechanic with the right equipment and know-how to go a couple of steps further.
Doing a Comprehensive Job
In a major service visit like this, the technician will attach a special machine to the automatic transmission, which will pump cleaning fluid through the system. It'll help to dislodge any accumulation along the torque converter's walls and ensure that all old fluid and unwanted debris is siphoned out instead. Once that work has been completed, the engineer can then remove the machine, add new fluid to the system and send you on your way.
Taking the Best Approach
So, insist on a comprehensive service when needed to give your automatic transmission as much help as possible and avoid any unwanted breakdown in the future.
For more information about automatic transmissions, contact a local auto shop.
Share16 September 2022
