Torque Converter Hub Seal: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the drain plug and drain the transmission fluid. Install the drain plug.
- Tighten to 18 Nm (159 lb-in).
  
  Fig 1: Locating Transmission Fluid Pan Drain Plug
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the transmission. For additional information, refer to TRANSMISSION - GASOLINE ENGINES for gasoline engines, or TRANSMISSION - DIESEL ENGINES .
Mount the transmission on the Car/Truck Engine Stand.

Fig 2: Mounting Transmission On Car/Truck Engine Stand
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position the transmission upright and remove the Torque Converter Retainer.

Fig 3: Removing/Installing Torque Converter Retainer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the Pump Remover/Installer Bracket on the torque converter. Install the pin in the bottom hole.

Fig 4: Installing Pump Remover/Installer Bracket On Torque Converter
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a Heavy Duty Floor Crane, lift the torque converter. Use enough pressure to break the torque converter hub seal loose and raise the torque converter high enough to allow the torque converter to drain. Remove the torque converter.

Fig 5: Removing/Installing Torque Converter Using Heavy Duty Floor Crane
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Clean the outside surface of the torque converter.
Install the Torque Converter Leak Tester into the torque converter hub.

Fig 6: Installing Torque Converter Leak Tester Into Torque Converter Hub
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Always follow correct safety procedures while using the press. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

Install the torque converter with the Torque Converter Leak Tester installed into the arbor press.
- Secure the press. Apply enough force from the press to seal the Torque Converter Leak Tester into the torque converter hub.
  
  Fig 7: Installing Torque Converter With Leak Tester Into Arbor Press
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Use only clean, dry shop air.

Using the Torque Converter Leak Tester, apply air pressure.

Fig 8: Applying Air Pressure Using Torque Converter Leak Tester
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
With air pressure applied to valve, inspect for leaks at the converter hub, the seams and the studs. A soap bubble solution can be applied around those areas to aid in the diagnosis. If any leaks are present, install a new torque converter.

Fig 9: Inspecting Converter Hub For Leaks
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the air hose. Release the pressure, and then slowly release the press. Remove the torque converter. Remove the Torque Converter Leak Tester.

Fig 10: Removing Torque Converter Leak Tester
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.