Torque Converter Replacement

[tcpoland]

So my xj is throwing codes for the torque converter for the last couple days. I have never had to replace one before. How difficult will it be to replace and what special equipment will I need? Is it something that can be held off for a while?

 

[DutchVDub]

Just pull the transmission, pop the torque converter out of the transmission, and reinstall. No special tools needed beyond the reverse torx socket for the top two bell housing bolts.

 

[YELLAHEEP]

I'll add that it'd be best to go ahead and replace the front input seal as well. Might not be as big a deal with a new converter with an un-grooved input, but if you put in a used one, the grooves it has won't likely line up with the old seal and you could find yourself with a leaker.

This will require dropping the trans pretty much out and down, but since you'll be that far into it, it'd be good piece of mind.

A trans jack makes the job much easier....... those can be rented from most tool rental places. Otherwise, no special tools other than what Dutch mentioned about the E-12Torx socket to get the top two bell housing bolts.

You'll be removing both drive shafts, cooling lines, harness/plugs and breather hoses. 4 bolts on the torque converter holding it to the flex plate, starter removed too. You can leave the cross member bolted to the trans mount and the t-case on, but I find it easier to remove the cross member and replace it once the trans is all bolted back up and in place.

 

[tcpoland]

n Okay sojnds fairly straightforward. I only have hand tools for small jobs... would anyone be willing to let me come by at some point in the next few weeks and let me use a work space. Id buy lunch. Thanx

 

[kastein]

Make sure you get the torque converter fully seated in the transmission before reinstalling, it should clunk several times as it goes in and the snout should sit below the bellhousing surface if you put a straightedge across it. If it doesn't, you are going to wreck some rather important bits when you try to bolt the trans back in and you'll be taking it out again and probably replacing at least the torque converter and trans fluid pump... again.