How to Fill a Torque Converter on a 98 Ford Transmission

An automatic transmission in a 1998 Ford does not have a clutch -- it uses a torque converter to multiply the turning power the engine provides. The transmission shaft, or input shaft, and the torque converter are connected. The torque converter is bolted to the flexplate, which is attached to the crankshaft. The impeller and turbine in the torque converter face each other inside a metal casing. The only time a torque converter is empty is when it has just been installed.

Instructions

1

Stick the transmission funnel into the fill tube for the transmission.

2

Pour the recommended amount and type of transmission fluid into the funnel for your make and model Ford. You can find this information in the owner's manual. Pull the funnel out of the fill tube and insert the dipstick.

3

Start the vehicle and allow it to come to operating temperature. Hold the brake and slowly run the vehicle through the gears, from "Park" to "1," and back up to "Park," twice. Ensure that the vehicle is in "Park," and leave it running.

4

Pull the transmission dipstick out of the fill tube and wipe it off with the shop rags. Stick it back in. Pull it out and read the level of the transmission fluid. Add a pint of transmission fluid. Run the vehicle through the gears. Repeat until the transmission fluid level stabilizes.