Converter problems
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Converter problems
I've been having some problems with the lockup on my torque converter lately. Before it was engaging and disengaging around town so I just put it in D unless I was running on the highway. Later it started acting up and then settling down after a little time at speed. Now it seems not to want to engage at all. I changed the trans fluid and filter less than 2000 miles ago and everything seemed fine. There was a bit of stuff in the bottom of the pan, but no big chunks or flakes. I've got to check the wiring going to the trans, but I was wondering if there's anything else I should check. How tough is it to get to the switch and solenoid that control the clutch? Just looking for a little advice to point me in the right direction. Thanks in advance.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Sorry, it's an 88 coupe with about 80,000 miles on it. I figured that I wouldn't have to worry about driveline problems on it until after 100,000 miles.
I've been looking around and it seems that a lot of people are asking lockup questions in the forums. Is this a problem with these cars?
I've been looking around and it seems that a lot of people are asking lockup questions in the forums. Is this a problem with these cars?
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,517
Likes: 19
Lock up is no more of a problem in these cars as they are in any other car.
The wiring to the trans is almost never the problem. Drop the trans pan and ohm test the solenoid. 20-40 ohms is acceptable. 20-25 is typical. Inspect the wiring (in pan) for damage. remove and pressure test the pressure switches 1 at a time. If the fail to properly open or close, or if the leak 80 psi from the seams, change them.
If this does not lead to a solution, remove and clean/polish the lock up valve in the pump. If this fail to correct the problem, you may have a bad torque converter. I am not suggesting parts swapping, but test these pieces, in the order I listed.
The wiring to the trans is almost never the problem. Drop the trans pan and ohm test the solenoid. 20-40 ohms is acceptable. 20-25 is typical. Inspect the wiring (in pan) for damage. remove and pressure test the pressure switches 1 at a time. If the fail to properly open or close, or if the leak 80 psi from the seams, change them.
If this does not lead to a solution, remove and clean/polish the lock up valve in the pump. If this fail to correct the problem, you may have a bad torque converter. I am not suggesting parts swapping, but test these pieces, in the order I listed.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
Thanks for the info. I'm hoping I can get to it before I put it into winter storage. I wish I'd known to check all this stuff when I replaced the fluid and filter on the trans when I had to put in a starter. Oh well. I'll keep dreaming of a six-speed conversion for when I win the lottery. Thanks again.
