32RH torque converter locking up

[dfbeebe]

Hello All,

2002 TJ with 32RH automatic.

I removed the transmission, replaced leaking seals and a whining torque converter. Reinstalled it, found the torque converter locks up when its not supposed to. It seems like it does it moreso in reverse than drive.

Any ideas what i should start looking at?

 

[Jerry Bransford]

Hello All,

2002 TJ with 32RH automatic.

I removed the transmission, replaced leaking seals and a whining torque converter. Reinstalled it, found the torque converter locks up when its not supposed to. It seems like it does it moreso in reverse than drive.

Any ideas what i should start looking at?

I'd start with the easiest first, check the condition of the connector at the very rear of the transmission. That's the wire that controls the lockup solenoid, the PCM grounds it to lock it up. Make sure it or its wire is not damaged and possibly touching ground anywhere.

 

[dfbeebe]

Thank you I will check that first when my stepfather comes over today to help.

If I disconnect the wire at the connector and it still locks up, would that tell me it is not the wiring? If that is the case, what other things could it be?

 

[Jerry Bransford]

If it still locks up after disconnecting the TCC solenoid connector there's an internal mechanical. The correct connector has a small external stainless spring clip on it.

 

[dfbeebe]

Just a little update:

1. The torque converter still locks up when the 2-pin connector is disconnected.

2. I saw elsewhere that a plugged up transmission cooler can cause the problem in reverse. I bypassed the trans cooler with a clear hose, and could see the fluid flowing.

- The torque converter seems to only lock up when the transmission fluid has a minute to start getting warm.


I will next be opening up the valve body to check the lockup solenoid to see if it is functioning. Trying to do everything that is easier than pulling the transmission again to replace the newly installed rebuilt torque converter...

 

[dfbeebe]

Update 2: Ended up just taking the transmission to a shop. The new torque converter was bad. Since its a jeep and it has been abused over the years I had it completely rebuilt. $1350.00 total cost, not too bad. Planetary gears and a lot of other items had a ton of wear, he kept the old parts for me to see.

I'm installing a cooler for the trans, since I'm in Southern Nevada and I've burned the fluid a few times before... I am keeping the one built into the radiator but adding the additional cooler after the radiator.

I will let you know when its running. Cant wait!