Torque converter engagement

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Jul 12, 2008 | 12:24 PM

1972-34ton

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From: Middle of Ohio

Torque converter engagement

I have a completely stock FE/C6 setup with all original parts, save a new front transmission seal. The torque converter slides into at least one set of splines, then stops "solidly". It is only even with the bellhousing. I don't believe the second set of splines is engaging, or perhaps it is the two flats on the snout.

No amount of turning, wiggling, or cussing seems to help it get past this point.

Gents, what is the trick here?

Kevin

Jul 14, 2008 | 08:11 AM

Red69

Tuned

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From: Rock Hill, SC

The last thing the converter must slip into is the pump. Check the end of the converter and make sure there is no damage to that area. It sounds like you are doing the right process. That is the converter that was in the trans before?

Jul 14, 2008 | 02:04 PM

1972-34ton

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Torque converter engagement issue

Yes, same one. There is no damage, and nothing has been forced. It came out smoothly. Two other fellows with no C6 experience gave it a try, and had no luck. The tranny is hung on a chain, supported by a pole across the engine compartment. I wonder if the tension on the shift linkage has anything to do with it?

Does varnish or a mechanical ridge develop on the splines that might make engagement difficult?

Jul 14, 2008 | 02:49 PM

Red69

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From: Rock Hill, SC

The shifter doesn't matter. Transmission fluid is full of detergent so even though the pan and filter may be full of slime the inside of the trans will be very clean.

I usually grab the converter at the top and bottom and jiggle it while rotating a few degrees right and left until it slides all the way in. Should be a one minute job at most.

I am trying to think of things that could go wrong to cause your problem. I am not sure if the pump rotor can slide off center when the converter is out on that trans. I don't think it can.

When you pulled the enginge the converter wasn't still attached to it was it?

Jul 15, 2008 | 01:00 PM

blue68f100

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Aug 2007

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From: Piney Woods of East Texas

Just keep turning it slowly while pushing in, keeping the convert as straight as you can. If you have to old converter make sure you have the right one. I;ve ahd a few that had to be spun as much as 270deg before it slipped all the way in.

Jul 15, 2008 | 07:49 PM

Ford_Six

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From: The Big, Oregon

There are only two flats that drive the pump, so it can have a long ways to spin before it lines up. Also, don't push too hard, or you'll just turn the pump and be right back where you started.

Jul 16, 2008 | 12:05 PM

1972-34ton

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Ford_Six,

I'm paying attention to all of the above. Three of us have tried all of this advice, and it still does not align. We have gone around dozens of times, wiggling and holding it in alighnment.

There does not appear to be any damage, bending, or any such factor.

A new transmission seal was installed. Since we can't see back there behind the torque converter, is there any way the seal might be interfering with engagement? The surface of the seal is about flush with the casting. The TC body just barely extends past the bellhousing, with the bolts clearly past the bellhousing. Does this position ring any bells for someone?

This is nearing a crisis point, as moving time is in a couple of days. ACK!

All Ideas welcome.