Modern & Traditional Torque Converters - Service You Can Rely On!

California Transmission is celebrating 30 years in business! We are and always have been committed to excellence and are thriving on our reputation for QUALITY. We understand services ALWAYS come first, so we test and balance our torque converters before every application.

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Are You Paying Attention To Your Torque Converter?

Here are a couple of signs that your torque converter needs immediate help - 

  • Engine stalling when sitting idle or stopping
  • Unusual noises, such as whining, rattling, grinding, etc. 
  • Shuddering or vibrations in your vehicle between 30-45 mph
  • Black materials in the transmission fluid, which indicates contamination
  • Overheating due to excessive friction or low transmission fluid levels, causing the vehicle to struggle when shifting gears

How Can California Transmission Help?

  • We conduct thorough inspections to identify any problems with the torque converter, such as - slipping, overheating, or unusual noises.  
  • We ensure that your transmission fluid is at the optimal level and free of contaminants. This is because proper fluid is essential for the torque converter to function correctly. If there’s any issue - we will replace it!
  • If your torque converter is malfunctioning, we offer repair services or, if needed, a complete replacement to restore the driving performance. 
  • They provide maintenance services to keep your transmission and torque converter in optimal condition, preventing future issues and extending the lifespan of your vehicle. 

The plus point is - we offer free advice on how you can maintain your transmission system. Thus ensuring your torque converter continues to function effectively for an extended period. 

Services We Offer

Here’s what you get with us -

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Torque Converter Inspections

Not sure what’s wrong with your converter? Don’t fret! Our torque expert helps you with whatever issue you might be facing. We identify the problem and recommend the right solution to get you back on the road.

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Torque Converter Rebuild

Sometimes, a full replacement isn’t necessary, especially with modern torque converters. So, we rebuild your torque converter to restore your unit to a new-like condition. We ensure that your torque converter delivers smooth performance and extended reliability - all at a fraction of replacement costs. 

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Torque Converter Replacement

When repair is not the solution - we recommend replacement. We match your vehicle’s compatibility to the correct high-quality replacement unit, ensuring enhanced power delivery and function. We promise to have your car driving like new again - and we back our work with warranty options. 

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Performance Torque Converter Upgrades

Our performance torque converter upgrades are perfect for towing, racing, or spirited daily driving! We help you choose the right stall speed and design that suits YOUR needs, giving the torque multiplication and efficiency you desire. 

Benefits Of Torque Converter

  • Keeps the engine running even when the vehicle is stopped
  • Boost power during acceleration, making starts smoother and stronger
  • Eliminates the need for clutch pedals, offering an easier, more relaxed drive
  • Deliver seamless engine power to the transmission without needing manual input
  • Adjusts power delivery based on driving conditions for better performance and fuel economy

What is a Torque Converter?

A torque converter is one of the most important components in automatic transmissions that transfers torque from the engine to the transmission input shaft. Unlike a manual transmission, where the engine could stall if you stop without pressing the clutch, the torque converter keeps the engine running even when the car isn’t moving. 

That’s why you can sit at a red light or in heavy traffic without worrying about stalling out. A huge advantage of a torque converter is torque multiplication. This means it boosts the engine’s torque when you’re starting from a dead stop. Hence, the reason why your car feels so much smoother and quicker pulling away from a parking lot or a driveway. 

Features Of A Torque Converter

  • Fluid coupling between engine and transmission
  • Automatic torque multiplication during acceleration
  • Allows engine to stop without stalling
  • Smooth gear shifting without manual intervention
  • Dampen the vibration for smoother rides
  • Adapts power delivery to driving needs
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How A Torque Converter Works?

Impeller and Turbine

The torque converter consists of three main components - 

  • the impeller
  • the turbine
  • the stator

The impeller is connected to the engine’s crankshaft and is responsible for driving the fluid inside the torque converter. As the impeller spins, it creates fluid movement within the torque converter.

Fluid Transfer

The fluid driven by the impeller is directed towards the turbine, which is connected to the transmission input shaft. The fluid movement causes the turbine to spin, transmitting torque to the transmission.

Stator

The stator is positioned between the impeller and the turbine and serves to redirect the fluid flow. It ensures that the fluid leaving the turbine is directed back towards the impeller in a more efficient manner, enhancing torque multiplication and improving overall efficiency.

Torque Multiplication

One of the key functions of a torque converter is torque multiplication. When the vehicle is stationary or moving at low speeds, the impeller is spinning faster than the turbine due to the fluid momentum. This speed difference creates a multiplication effect, allowing the torque converter to transmit more torque to the transmission input shaft than is being applied by the engine. This helps the vehicle accelerate smoothly from a stop or at low speeds.

Lock-Up Clutch

In modern torque converters, there is a lock-up clutch mechanism that engages at higher speeds to create a direct mechanical connection between the impeller and the turbine. This reduces the slippage that occurs in traditional torque converters, improves fuel efficacy, and generates low heat.

The torque converter in automatic transmissions provides smooth torque transfer between the transmission and the engine. This allows the vehicle to operate smoothly under various driving conditions.

Don’t Hesitate To Call Us For Torque Converter Issues. Get In Touch With California Transmission Now!

It becomes really challenging to enjoy the optimal functioning of your vehicle if the torque converter is not working properly. If you notice any signs of trouble - don’t wait! Schedule a service with the experts at California Transmission. 

We take care of every repair and service with the precision, care, and quality your vehicle deserves. After your visit, your vehicle will feel like new - you’ll hardly remember there was ever an issue! 

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How much is it going to cost? Get A Quick Estimate Now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Don't Just Take Our Word For It

We believe in delivering honest and professional automotive repair and auto maintenance services. Check out what our clients have to say!

Jose Ibarra
19:11 13 Dec 24
I recently purchased a 2002 GMC Sierra 3500 4x4 Dually with a Duramax Allison combo. After testing the truck as I pulled my 10k travel trailer up hill grade on I-80 towards Vallejo I was impressed how it maintained 65mph on cruise control up the hill. Afterwards headed back my service engine soon light appeared. The codes involved torque converter/ transmission codes. I did my research and determined to take it to California Transmissions due to the previous owners notes located in the glove box. I was greatly impressed with the quality and most of all honesty and fair pricing to get my truck repaired. Thanks again Joe for the fine work as I strongly recommend your shop!
Brian Mulrooney
03:30 13 Dec 24
Just had my GMC Sierra transmission 6L80 replaced here by Joe and his team. I highly recommend them for service needs, as they are friendly, knowledgeable, and honest. I found them based on reading other reviews…and the previous customers were correct! Truck is smooth as butter now and I am happy I chose them to do the job! Very fair pricing too.
Aaliyah Hernandez
01:41 11 Dec 24
Took my car in for an oil change at a different location where they found issues with my transmission and recommended me to this shop. My father-in-law works at Ford and vetted California Transmissions, so I felt secure in coming. They were very honest and thorough with explaining everything they were seeing and doing to my car to me, and they even spoke to my father-in-law over the phone when I wanted to cross-check all the information I was receiving. As a young woman, this was major to me because I've heard so many horror stories of workshop men taking advantage of women who don't know enough about cars, charging and up-charging for services that are unnecessary. These guys are totally trustworthy and earnest, the value in their integrity is relieving. I will definitely be coming back to them should I need more services done. Highly, highly recommended.
John Wootton
02:47 10 Dec 24
Had an issue with transmission not reporting gear or drive status. Limped vehicle home and was unable to start again due to lack of feedback. Called CA Transmission of Orangevale on recommendation from Midas. Called Joe and immediately got an indication of what the issue might be with a preliminary price.Had the vehicle towed to Joe's shop and had a diagnosis the same day with work completed all in one day. Price was as stated, schedule was quicker than expected.Highly recommend, will return for further work that may be required in future.
Beccie McDonell
21:38 06 Dec 24
We had a wonderful experience with this Company! They were able to diagnose the problem with my car within 24 hours . And would have been able to received the necessary part within days and would have had us back on the road in under a week. They answered their phone and communicated very well with us. Their prices were very fair. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Kristina England
20:48 22 Nov 24
Would definitely recommend! Pam was my first point of contact and was very knowledgeable and helpful! I was at a loss as to what to do with my car and she gave me multiple options and did all of the research for me to ensure that I got the best price and fix for my vehicle. Joe was amazing as well, was both kind and professional. I had to have my transmission completely taken out and have a new one put in and my car was given back to me in 2 days running like new! Throughout the entire process, Pam and Joe answered all of my questions and addressed any concerns I had and offered continued follow-up. I will definitely utilize again if necessary and would recommend California transmission of Orangeville!
Julius Nomad
04:16 19 Nov 24
Just wanted to say how grateful I am to have been referred to California Transmissions. Thank you to Pam in the office for scheduling my appointment, and very understanding as to what was going on with vehicle. To Joe, dude you’re awesome man. Very thorough and informative as to what was needed and done to the vehicle. Definitely sending people your way. A very happy customer here thank you!!
Andrew Gard
00:51 29 Oct 24
I had brought in my truck to get the transmission fluid serviced. I called on Friday to see if I could bring it in the following Monday and confirmed my appointment with them. Dropped it off in the morning and they let me know the parts should be in that morning and would probably have it back around the afternoon. 12pm got a call and everything was ready to go. They were nice enough to document my check engine light codes during the service as well.I will definitely be coming back here for future service as they were polite, professional and honest with the expectations. Always happy to be able to support local Orangevale businesses whenever I can.