How to Tighten Torque Converter Bolts

Most torque converters have between three and six bolts that hold the converter to the flex plate. The size of the bolts and the amount of torque required to properly secure them varies by make and model, so it’s important to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified automotive technician for specific instructions before proceeding.

Advertisement

How to Tighten Torque Converter Bolts Properly

In general, however, you’ll need a socket wrench and a torque wrench to properly tighten torque converter bolts.

  • First, find the torque converter bolts
  • There are usually four of them, and they’re located on the outside of the transmission
  • Next, use a ratchet to loosen each bolt a few turns
  • Once all the bolts are loose, tighten them back up using your ratchet
  • Be sure to tighten them evenly so that they’re all the same tightness
  • Finally, double check that all the bolts are tight by trying to wiggle them with your fingers
  • If they’re loose, then retighten them until they’re snug.

What Does Loose Torque Converter Bolts Sound Like?

If your car has a loose torque converter bolts, it will likely produce a rattling noise. This is caused by the bolts becoming loose and falling out of place. If you hear this noise, it is important to have your car checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.

Advertisement

How Tight Should Torque Converter Be?

How tight should torque converter be? This is a common question that we get asked quite often. The answer, unfortunately, is not as simple as it may seem.

It all depends on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the year it was manufactured. There are many different types and sizes of torque converters, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best way to determine the proper torque for your specific converter is to consult your vehicle’s service manual.

If you don’t have access to a service manual, you can also find this information online or by calling a local auto parts store or dealership. Once you have the correct torque specs for your converter, be sure to use a quality wrench or torque wrench to tighten it properly. Over-tightening or under-tightening the bolts can cause serious problems down the road.

How Do You Check Torque Converter Bolts?

To check the torque converter bolts, you will need a torque wrench. You will also need to know the specific bolt size and torque rating for your vehicle. Once you have these things, you can follow these steps:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake.

2. Place the socket end of the torque wrench onto the bolt head.

Advertisement

3. Apply pressure to the handle of the wrench until it clicks, indicating that the proper amount of torque has been applied to the bolt.

4. Repeat this process for all of the bolts on your torque converter.

How Do You Torque a Flex Plate?

When you torque a flex plate, you need to use a special socket that is designed to fit over the bolts. You also need to have a torque wrench that is capable of measuring in both pounds and Newton-meters.

To properly torque the flex plate, first loosen all of the bolts by turning them counterclockwise.
Then, tighten each bolt in a crisscross pattern until they are all snug. Once all of the bolts are tight, turn each one an additional 90 degrees using the torque wrench.

Make sure to check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to torque your particular flex plate model.

Flywheel to Torque Converter Bolts Torque Specs

The torque spec for flywheel to torque converter bolts is 75-85 Ft. lbs. Make sure to use a good quality bolts when you do this because if they are too weak, they will shear off and cause engine damage. Also, be careful not to overtighten the bolts because that can strip the threads out of the flywheel.

Quick Tip: Installing Torque Converter Bolts

Conclusion

If your torque converter bolts are loose, it can cause all sorts of problems. The engine will run rough, the transmission will slip, and you could even damage the converter itself. Luckily, tightening the bolts is a pretty easy fix.
Tightening these bolts may seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in how your car runs. So if you’re having any trouble with your transmission, be sure to check those torque converter bolts!