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Torque converter locking mechanism

Discussion in 'Technical Chat' started by doctor brevic, May 29, 2012.

  1. May 29, 2012 at 8:29 PM
    #1
    doctor brevic

    doctor brevic [OP] Active Member

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    I am the very proud owner of a 2011 tacoma 4x4 with the 2tr-fe 2.7l 4 cyl. It does however have the automatic transmission... Yeah, I know. I quite prefer a manual but hey, what are ya gonna do? Anyways, about that transmission, I hear of a locking mechanism in the torque converter and I was wondering if you guys could tell me what all that involves. How's it work and is it any good? reliable? when is it locked and unlocked? I did some research but came up empty. Also I hear all these people saying "4 speed automatic" but I counted 5 shifts from 0 to 65, does it in fact have a 4 speed like all the currently considered misinformed people say or am I correct in that there are 5 speeds present? thanks in advance!
     
  2. May 29, 2012 at 8:54 PM
    #2
    Rich91710

    Rich91710 Well-Known Member

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    4 speeds and the TC lockup will drop the RPM and may feel like a 5th gear.

    Short story, it's a clutch pack in the TC, not unlike the clutch packs in the trans.
    It's actuated by fluid pressure controlled by the valve body, which is in turn commanded by the ECU.

    Normally, the TC locks up in 3rd and 4th under lightly loaded conditions.
    It is primarily for fuel economy, but it also helps reduce trans temperature by eliminating the frictional heat generated by the TC using the fluid coupling.
     
  3. May 29, 2012 at 10:24 PM
    #3
    doctor brevic

    doctor brevic [OP] Active Member

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    Adolf
    blue mountains
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    2.7 4x4 tacoma
    Nothing but a K&N filter
    wow! Good answer, did'nt expect such a complete response so quickly. thank you!
     
  4. May 29, 2012 at 10:30 PM
    #4
    doctor brevic

    doctor brevic [OP] Active Member

    Joined:
    Sep 3, 2011
    Member:
    #62835
    Messages:
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    Gender:
    Male
    First Name:
    Adolf
    blue mountains
    Vehicle:
    2.7 4x4 tacoma
    Nothing but a K&N filter

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