A/T - ATX Torque Converter Differences
Technical Bulletin # 88-50Date: November 1988
Subject: FORD ATX Torque Converters
All ATX transmissions through 1985 use two styles of torque converters. Both have planetaries inside to give reductions in 1st and 2nd gears, but have different stall speed ratings. (See Figure 1)
Beginning in 1986, some changes were made:
Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz use a FLC (Fluid Locking Converter) which is basically an open torque converter with no planetaries inside. The dimensions are the same as the torque converters used in earlier transmissions, but it is not recommended to interchange them. Since there are no planetaries in the FLC, planetary ratios in the transmission are different.
The FLC torque converter has two sleeves inside. The turbine sleeve can be removed very easily. It may fall out when the fluid is drained. Failure to reinstall it will result in a "no move" condition. Part number for the turbine sleeve is E7SZ-7A178-A. The other sleeve is splined to the stator. This sleeve can be moved front to rear a great distance. This is normal, don't condemn the torque converter because of it. To check end play properly, check the front to rear travel of the turbine.
The 1986 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable with an ATX Transmission use a CLC (Centrifugal Locking Clutch) Torque converter. This converter works the same as a C-5 Converter, and has no planetaries.
There are no sleeves, as in the FLC, but the CLC is wider front to rear than the other converters. The front cover of the CLC is flat, giving it a distinctly different appearance. A common failure of this torque converter is a stripped turbine spline causing a "no-move" condition. There is a replacement available that is hardened.
Many technicians will install a "clutch-less" torque converter, as is done on many C-5 Transmissions. An FLC Torque Converter can be installed in place of a CLC, if the flywheel is changed to part number E83Z-6375-A. If installing an FLC Torque Converter in place of a CLC, be sure to install the turbine sleeve. The bell housings are the same length, and the FLC Torque Converter will center in the crankshaft.
In 1988 the Taurus and the Sable are using the FLC Torque Converter.