2nd Gen Torque Converter Problem?

[spills1969]

Not sure if its the TC, but I swear I used to be able to get up to 38-40 mph in 1st gear (auto 3sfe). However, I did do a gauge cluster swap so I cud have a stock tach. I did this a few months ago, and I just noticed last night that I can only get up to about 30 mph. Any other 2nd gens out there get up to about 40 in 1st (with an auto), or was my gauge that i replaced just screwed? Im hopin thats it, only other explanation I can think of wud be the torque converter is slippin, in which case I'd have to replace it, which I've never done.

BTW: anyone else ever changed out a TC? All my friends got 5 speeds, which is what I wanted in the first place cuz its easier to drive and maintain, and they wont touch a TC. Is it a LOT harder than a clutch, or about the same? I got a Haynes manual, but I need to get a chiltons because haynes dont explain SHIAT! Thanx fellow Cam-ers...

[djprefix]

I've never worked with a automatic tranny on a 3sfe before, so I don't have any advice for you there. But I do have a big piece of advice, don't use a chiltons or haynes manual! Spend the extra money and get the toyota chassis manual. Trust me it's worth it.

[88 LE]

Originally posted by spills1969
BTW: anyone else ever changed out a TC?

My buddy and I swapped the auto tranny on his 94 Camry (5S-FE) a few weeks ago.

Is it a LOT harder than a clutch, or about the same?

Having done both, i'd say about the same.

1. Drain the tranny.

2. Unbolt the axles from the differential.

3. Unbolt the access plate on the bottom of the tranny (its on the side of the tranny in between tranny and block). Its a little black metal cover held on with a couple small bolts.

4. Unbolt the torque converter from the flex plate. Theres 6 bolts on a 5S-FE, not sure about the 3S-FE. You need to spin the crank around so that you can remove all the bolts.

5. Unbolt the tranny from the block. Then seperate the 2.


When you reinstall the torque converter make sure you get that bitch all the way on. Otherwise it won't drive the pump and you'll fry the tranny. My buddy learned this the hard way.