Torque Converter Problem?

**sam_d** · 23rd July 2021, 10:16 PM

Hi all, I think the torque converter on my 2003 D2 Td5 is developing problems.

I've found that when I want to move off from being stationary it takes quite a few revs before I get any drive. I used to be able to select 'D' and I'd move with the engine idling. Now, it needs a bit of welly before I move.

It's only when starting from stationary and much more noticeable if I've been parked for a week or so. Once I'm moving everything is fine. ATF levels all good. Regularly serviced etc.

Any ideas / advice? TIA!

**shack** · 24th July 2021, 08:58 AM

Originally Posted by sam_d

Hi all, I think the torque converter on my 2003 D2 Td5 is developing problems.

I've found that when I want to move off from being stationary it takes quite a few revs before I get any drive. I used to be able to select 'D' and I'd move with the engine idling. Now, it needs a bit of welly before I move.

It's only when starting from stationary and much more noticeable if I've been parked for a week or so. Once I'm moving everything is fine. ATF levels all good. Regularly serviced etc.

Any ideas / advice? TIA!

Is it ok on subsequent launches after everything is warm?

**sam_d** · 24th July 2021, 11:53 PM

Originally Posted by shack

Is it ok on subsequent launches after everything is warm?

It's much better but still there. The transmission definitely isn't slipping or anything as once it overcomes the initial lag the take off is rapid.

**rick130** · 25th July 2021, 06:11 AM

From everything I've read here and on the web in the past it's usually crap in the governor valve, e.g. clutch debris.

Not exactly your trans but the build and method is the same.
zf governor replacement tips

**discorevy** · 25th July 2021, 07:55 AM

No governor valve on electronic boxes, but does sound like worn clutches have caused internal problems. the most common being damage to oil pump which allows the fluid to drain back overnight, taking longer to prime up first thing.
Another common problem is the "A" clutch prematurely wearing from fluid bypassing the input shaft seals.
I always fit the teflon replacement seals when in there.
Try a stall test to determine other issues.
Also worth dropping the pan to replace filter and to check for clutch / metal material
Does the torque converter lock up when warm?

**rick130** · 25th July 2021, 08:05 AM

Bloody hell Craig.
I've spent time in the past studying up on something that isn't even in my 'box??!!

**discorevy** · 25th July 2021, 08:24 AM

Well on the bright side , you won't have to give it a clean when you remove the transfer case to fit your shiny new ATB centre diff

**rick130** · 25th July 2021, 08:27 AM

Very true!
I like the way you think!

**sam_d** · 25th July 2021, 09:38 PM

Originally Posted by discorevy

Does the torque converter lock up when warm?

Yes. Everything seems to work fine once I'm moving.

**discorevy** · 26th July 2021, 08:15 AM

While it'll run this way for a while , it will get to the point when it fails completely, leading to an expensive rebuild as opposed to a semi expensive rebuild if you did it now.
Give it a filter and change of fluid if you want to run it a while longer and put it on light duties till your ready to rebuild. ( $3k-$5k depending if you take the car in or just the trans and converter)

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