Let’s torque!

THE GEARBOX FACTORY DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF TORQUE CONVERTER LOCK-UPS, AND HOW TO KNOW IF A TORQUE CONVERTER NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED

All automatic transmissions require a torque converter — often one of the least understood components of an automatic vehicle. The torque converter was designed in the early 1900s to transfer power from the engine to the transmission’s input shaft. The impeller inside acts as a type of centrifugal pump. As it spins, fluid is flung to the outside — much as the spin cycle of a washing machine flings water and clothes to the outside of the wash tub. As fluid is flung to the outside, a vacuum is created that draws more fluid in at the centre. Added to the mix is a lock-up clutch, technology introduced in the mid 1900s which locks engine RPM and transmission so they are turning as one. By using a lock-up, overall fuel efficiency was increased. By the 1970s demand for more efficient vehicles grew with manufacturers fitting lock-ups to most models of transmissions. In modern transmissions, the use of lockup is often applied between multiple gear shifts, almost feeling like an extra gear.

The most common fault with today’s torque converters is a lock-up shudder caused by poor-quality factory oil and oil deterioration. Much like a manual clutch shudder, this can often feel like running over road cat’s eyes while driving. One of the biggest fights against premature lock-up failure is servicing the transmission with specified oil. The Gearbox Factory can check, monitor, and diagnose any lock-up and torque converter faults with their state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and experienced technicians.

The Gearbox Factory’s dedicated in-house machine shop and fitting team have been overhauling and repairing converters for nearly 50 years. Their experienced engineers have rebuilt more than 30,000 units to date. They also stock high-quality replacement parts for most makes and models of transmission.

As well as overhauling and repairing torque converters, The Gearbox Factory also repairs and replaces all types of automotive car transmissions, clutches, and differentials nationwide. They also service all passenger and light commercial vehicles with most oils, filters, and gaskets in stock readily available (servicing available within the Auckland area only).

For all torque converter, service, and repair enquiries, on all makes and models of automotive vehicles, and light trucks up to 5,000 kgs, call 09 274 8340 / 0800 4432 7269, visit them at 68D Greenmount Drive, East Tamaki, Auckland, or visit the website gearboxfactory.co.nz

WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN AUTOMATIC AND MANUAL TRANSMISSION SERVICES, REPAIRS (INCLUDING TRANSFER CASES, DIFFERENTIALS AND WHEEL BEARINGS)

DSGs & DCTs

We cover all repairs and servicing with the latest diagnostic equipment available.

CVTs

Continuously variable transmissions are a significant part of overall sales each month, therefore the equipment and knowledge that we have accumulated from years of experience repairing these complicated transmissions, has given us an unparalleled edge.

DIFF Audit

Often overlooked but not by us, the time to get your diff looked at is when you first hear a noise, to avoid more costly repairs down the track.

Torque Converters

The Gearbox Factory has been rebuilding torque converters for cash trade customers for over 48 years. With a significant increase in production capacity, The Gearbox Factory team is now able to offer a torque converter reconditioning and repair service to the motor industry.

AND