What is a torque converter clutch?
Prior to the advent of lock-up converters, automatic transmission had a reputation of poor fuel mileage when compared with that of manuals. The lock-up feature enabled by a torque converter’s internal clutches is what allows modern automatics to buck this stigma.Torque Converter FunctionA torque converter uses an engine-driven turbine to push fluid through a transmission-side impeller. Though this design does function effectively, it allows internal leakage and inefficiency at cruise speed.Lock-UpLock-up converters use a set of internal clutches to lock the engine and transmission together at a certain speed, allowing the drive to attain nearly 100-percent efficiency.ConfigurationThe TC clutches are arranged in much the same way as those in the transmission. They consist of a series of alternating clutch ring and pressure plates that get squeezed together on engagement.ActivationTC clutches are electronically activated, usually in one or both of the transmissions top gears.FailureTC cl
