4r55e questions

[elguapodh]

hey,
i ran into a couple of problems with my 96 4.0l. first i replaced the flexplate for the second time this year. both times it sheared in two. im trying figure out the why to this problem, so i dont have to do it again. i noticed some mechanical damage when i pulled the torque converter out. the backside of it and the front of the transmission housing were galled, like they had been rubbing against each other. i also noticed when i removed the flexplate, there is a 1/2 inch or so spacer between it and the crank that was also slightly damaged. im thinking that the TC and spacer damage are an end result of the flexplate and not a cause, since when everything is working normally, the crank, spacer, flexplate and torque converter should all be bolted together in one piece. i dunno. id appreciate any thoughts.

dave

 

[jon42]

In the very center of your crankshaft, theres a pilot bushing for your torque converter. This centers the torque converter on the flex plate so it runs true. Check it to see if its damaged.If the center of the converter isnt inserting into this bushing,then as you bolt it up to the flex plate,the plate will bend outward to meet the converter as it is tightened. This would also account for the rubbing of the converter against the front of the trans as the converter is held away from the flex plate.There is a very small distance between these two components as is. If this does not solve your dilema...then any machine shop with an industial press can flatten your converter to the required dimention. hope this helps.

 

[Hoppy]

If it is anything like my 92 Explorer, this pilot bushing will crack and can explode your flex plate. I had to replace the both of them about a year ago because of this. Maybe this is your problem. Bad thing is, is that you have to pull your tranny out once again.

Hoppy

 

[TPLYNCH]

I think there is a TSB for the problem in '95 & '96 Exs I think, and it has been discussed on the board. I'm sorry I don't remember the specifics, but it does concern the converter coming out of alignment I believe. Could be related. Run a search for 4R55E and see what threads come up if you haven't already. The search button is up above, and really does come in handy.

Welcome to the board!

 

[elguapodh]

hey
i appreciated the input. there were more problems with this transmission than i had realized and the whole thing is going to have to be rebuilt. thank you all.
dave