Hydraulic Coupling

Lockup Clutch Torque Converter

Lockup T I
Clutch
S

Input Output

Some machines need torque converter drive under certain conditions and direct
drive during other conditions. The lockup clutch torque converter (Figure above)
provides a direct connection between the transmission and engine. It also
operates the same way as a conventional torque converter when it is not in
lockup mode.
The lockup clutch is located inside the torque converter housing. When the
lockup clutch is engaged, the clutch connects the rotating housing directly to the
output shaft and the turbine. The output shaft will turn at engine speed. Direct
drive provides the highest drive train efficiency at high speeds. The lockup clutch
connects the turbine to the rotating housing. The rotating housing rotates at the
same speed as the impeller. The lockup clutch is automatically engaged anytime
the machine operating conditions demand direct drive.

Doc No. T&D/PK.4 1 of 2

 Hydraulic Coupling

Lockup Clutch Torque Converter Components

The figure above illustrates the lockup clutch components. The lockup clutch
consists of a clutch piston, plates and discs. A lockup clutch control valve located
on the outer cover controls oil flow to engage the lockup clutch. In some machine
applications the lockup clutch is controlled by a solenoid, which is activated by
the transmission electronic control module (ECM).
When lockup clutch activation is demanded, oil flows through an oil passage in
the output shaft to the lockup clutch piston. The lockup clutch piston and plates
are connected to the converter housing with splines. The converter housing
rotates at engine speed. The discs are connected to an adapter with splines and
the adapter is fastened to the turbine with bolts. The oil pressure on the piston
forces the piston against the lockup clutch plates and discs. The plate and discs
rotate together causing the turbine and output shaft to rotate at the same speed
as the converter housing. The turbine and impeller are now turning at the same
speed and there is no multiplication of torque from the torque converter. When
the lockup clutch is released the torque converter multiplies torque like the
conventional torque converter.

Lockup Clutch Torque Converter Benefits

The lockup clutch torque converter allows flexibility in the machine application.
When a machine is under a high load the lockup clutch torque converter operates
like a conventional torque converter providing torque multiplication. When the
machine is traveling at a high speed the lockup clutch torque converter provides
direct drive for higher speeds and improved fuel economy.

Doc No. T&D/PK.4 2 of 2