Replace Torque Converter Seal During H.G. Repair?

[paulivan]

Hi

 

96' 2.5L engine is out for head gasket repair.

 

Should I change torque converter seal? How long would this take and how much pain for a backyard mechanic?

 

Any other non engine related stuff that should be done while engine is out?

 

Thanks,

 

PT

[JPX]

:confused:Ooooo.....this is a good question that I'd also like to get some opinions on.

My motor is also out since I am replacing it with a rebuilt CCR longblock.

 

Right now nothing leaking on my automatic. It is a great time to do something. But, part of me is thinking leave well enough alone.:-\

[idosubaru]

it's not terribly difficult to replace, at least inspect for any leakage if you don't want to replace it. how many miles on the car? if you're up around 200,000 then i'd think about replacing it. thing is, if it did start leaking you'd be pulling the motor again to replace it. probably more likely for an old seal to leak than a new one. i've always replaced them but also can say that leaking torque converter seals aren't very common.

 

installing the torque converter can be tricky, do a search here and you'll see plenty of threads about people not being able to get them to seat. the last 1/4" is difficult to seat and if you don't do it or don't notice, you'll break internal parts of the transmission when you bolt the engine back up. so be prepared to pay close attention if you pull the torque converter out.

 

on the older 4EAT's the torque converter has a ring seal on the shaft, might end up needing one of those as well if you pull it out. shaft has a groove that the ring seal fits into. this is a dealer only part for sure.

 

good luck.

[paulivan]

Thanks.

 

No apparent leaks. 110,000 on car.

 

I saw the scary threads about torque converter and now thinking I'll just leave well enough alone.

 

Thanks.

[paulivan]

Thanks.

 

No apparent leaks. 110,000 on car.

 

I saw the scary threads about torque converter and now thinking I'll just leave well enough alone.

 

Thanks.

[JPX]

My curiosity is satisfied.....and I will also leave well enough alone.

Something tells me that the next major thing to die on this car will be transmission related. So I will cross and then burn that bridge when I get there.

[idosubaru]

i think money/time well spent would be on an aftermarket trans cooler. at 110,000 miles i think you have a very good chance of not having any issue leaving the old seal in place. and the car isn't that old either, another bonus.

 

still good to make sure the torque converter is seated properly, it can come out some when you pull the engine. probably didn't, but on older cars they stick right to the flexplate sometimes. just make sure you don't use the engine to trans bolts to push the torque converter in and you're fine.

 

good luck and have fun.