A unit in an automatic transmission, quite similar to the fluid coupling, that transfers engine torque to the transmission input shaft It also cushions the flow of power Unlike the fluid coupling, the torque converter can multiply engine torque This is accomplished by installing one or more stators between the torus members In the torque converter the driving torus is referred to as the "pump" and the driven torus as the "turbine " The engine drives the impeller which in turn impels fluid against the vanes of a turbine connected through transmission gears to the drive shaft of the automobile The stator redirects oil flow from the turbine to boost impeller action and multiply engine torque
The torque converter converts hydraulic pressure within an automatic transmission to mechanical torque, which drives the drive shafts and, ultimately, the wheels of your car In design, the torque converter is similar to a turbine engine Fluid is forced under pressure through small passages called fins These passages vary in size and flip flop in direction As fluid is forced through the passages (which get smaller in size) a strong, almost solid "fluid coupling" is created This is what drives the driveshafts and wheels
A particular kind of fluid coupling with a third element added to the usual input and output turbines Called ""the stator,"" this additional element redirects the churning fluid against the output turbine, increasing torque This torque increase, however, is achieved at the expense of rpm and efficiency