What does a torque converter lock up switch do?

If you’re unfamiliar with exactly what the torque converter lock up is or does, the easy answer is, the lock up clutch takes stress off the fluid coupling of the torque converter and it helps decrease the amount of heat being generated at higher cruising speeds.

What does a lock up converter do?

It allows the engine to turn at a lower RPM when the vehicle is traveling at higher speeds. However, when the engine turns more slowly it causes the torque converter to slip, creating heat. The solution is to lock the converter. Lock-up eliminates the slippage, which reduces heat and improves fuel economy.

When should a torque converter lockup?

Recently developed torque converters have had a “lockup” feature added to reduce this energy loss and improve mpg. This lockup feature will not engage until the vehicle reaches approximately 40 mph. Other factors may also prevent this type converter from locking up.

What’s the difference between a lockup and non lockup converter?

A non-lockup converter can build excessive heat during normal cruising, especially in overdrive when engine rpm drops below converter stall speed. Choosing converter stall speed is largely based on camshaft operating range, and a lockup converter allows you to lean toward a higher stall speed for a better launch.

What’s the difference between lock up and non lockup transmission?

A non-lock-up torque converter will add more heat. With a lock-up when you get to speed, the torque converter will lock-up, which creates a direct drive from engine to transmission. No additional heat will be added into the tranny fluid due to slippage during operation.

Why would you want a non lockup torque converter?

What is a 350 lock up transmission?

The TH350 is an automatic shift, three-speed transmission. The HydraMatic 350 transmission was prevalent in nearly all GM, rear-wheel-drive cars and trucks through 1984. It was typically paired with Small Block V6 & V8 engines. It was phased out of use and superceded by GM’s 700R4 starting in 1982.