A/T - Torque Converter Damage

SOURCE: Kia PitStop

TITLE: Automatic Transmission Torque Converter

APPLIES TO: Optima and Sedona

SERVICE TIP:






KMA's Product Quality recently discovered a problem with torque converters supplied with remanufactured automatic transaxles for Optima and Sedona. In some cases the bolt used to secure the torque converter for shipping is too long and can make contact with the torque converter housing if a spacing washer was not installed. When this bolt is tightened securely it makes contact with the torque converter housing and deforms the housing. This deformation can damage the clutch located inside the torque converter. All remanufactured Optima and Sedona automatic transaxles MUST be inspected to determine if there is any damage to the torque converter. To check for damage remove the bolt that secures the torque converter to the shipping bracket. Rotate the torque converter until you can view inside the weld nut hole from which the bolt was removed. If you can see any contact marks on the backside of the converter inside the weld nut hole do not install that unit in a vehicle. Reattach the torque converter to the shipping bracket and contact your dealer for instructions.