Torque Converter Leak Test
NOTE:
Transaxle contains a separate oil sump for the differential. Transmission uses ATF and differential uses hypoid gear oil. Transaxle contains oil seals for each individual sump. A fluid leakage weep hole is located on side of transaxle case. See Fig 1. Before performing torque converter fluid leakage test, check for fluid leakage at fluid leakage weep hole. If fluid leakage exists, note if fluid is ATF or differential gear oil. This indicates which oil seal is leaking and must be replaced.
NOTE:
Fluid around torque converter may originate from engine oil or the transaxle. Ensure transaxle fluid level is correct. Fluid leakage at torque converter may result if fluid level is too high. Transaxle can be checked for torque converter leaks using following method.
- Remove torque converter dust shield. Using solvent and compressed air, clean inside area of torque converter housing. Ensure area is clean and dry.
- Fabricate leakage test probe using 1/32" sheet metal, 6" (152 mm) long and 1 1/2" (38.1 mm) wide. See Fig 2. Start and operate engine until transaxle is at normal operating temperature. Shut engine off.
- Install leakage test probe using dust shield bolt so leakage test probe is near torque converter. Ensure leakage test probe does not contact torque converter.
- Start engine. Place gearshift in Neutral. Operate engine at 2500 RPM for 2 minutes. Stop engine. Remove leakage test probe.
- If upper surface of leakage test probe is dry, torque converter is not leaking. If upper surface of leakage test probe is wet with transaxle ATF fluid, torque converter is leaking. If lower area below leakage test probe is wet with transaxle ATF fluid, fluid is coming from the transaxle.
- Possible causes of ATF fluid leaks at torque converter areas are:
- Torque converter hub.
- Defective seal (check torque converter hub finish).
- Mispositioned or worn bushing.
- Oil pump housing oil return hole restricted.
- Defective oil pump housing or "O" ring.
- Oil pump-to-transaxle case bolts.
- If torque converter is leaking, check for defective welds on outside diameter of torque converter and torque converter hub. Torque converter hub weld is welded on the inside and is not visible. Replace torque converter if a leak exists. DO NOT attempt to repair torque converter.
CAUTION:
If torque converter is replaced or Transaxle Control Module (TCM) is changed from one vehicle to another, proper procedure must be followed to reset Electronically Modulated Converter Clutch (EMCC) in torque converter to prevent shudder during clutch engagement for lock-up. Refer to the TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH BREAK-IN PROCEDURE .