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Many owners of late model
6.4-liter Ford Power Stroke Trucks are updating their trucks for
increased power. With an automatic transmission this can have some
unexpected and unwelcome side effects when it comes to maintaining the
best drivability. The fluid inside the transmission�s torque converter
is pumped between the turbine and impeller pieces to transfer torque
from the engine into the transmission and then to the wheels. The
impeller, which turns at engine revolution speed, spins the hydraulic
fluid, which then turns the turbine and transmission gear train. The
revolution speed at which this power transfer happens is called the
�stall speed� of the torque converter.
Once power is
increased in the trucks engine, the torque converter�s stall speed
(R.P.M.) can in-turn be raised significantly. Since the diesel
engines peak performance takes place at lower R.P.M., this can have a
detrimental and unwanted effect. ATS has alleviated this problem by
re-engineering the torque converter with a wider turbine and impellor to
control the hydraulic fluid. With the wider stance of these pieces,
along with the stator design, the effective leverage exerted on the
fluid is increased and allows the stall speed to remain at optimum
R.P.M.
As with the previous Five Star Torque Converter designs,
ATS provides a patented 5-disc lockup clutch pack for ultimate power
transfer and strength. Stamped steel factory components, such as the
cover (or shell) of the converter, are replaced with heavy duty
billet-machined pieces. Plastic internals, such as washers, are replaced
by H.D. metal roller bearings. Other parts which can lead to internal
failure, such as the tab-fastened fins on the turbine and impeller, are
brazed and reinforced for increased strength.
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