The torque converter on a Ford vehicle provides a fluid coupling between the engine and the automatic transmission. This coupling multiplies engine torque and delivers it to the input shaft of the transmission. The torque converter replaces the clutch on vehicles with automatic transmission. The torque converter can be drained as a part of a regular service to the vehicle's transmission or in preparation to remove it.
Park the vehicle where you will be working on it. Park on level ground and apply the parking brake. Allow the vehicle to sit at least an hour to completely cool.
Jack the front of the vehicle up to an appropriate height, then put jack stands under the axles. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands.
Get under the car to access the torque converter. The torque converter is inside the bell housing at the rear of the engine and in front of the transmission.
Remove the bolts holding the converter dust cover in place on the front of the bell housing. Remove the dust cover. Set the dust cover and the bolts aside.
Hand rotate the converter until the drain plug is at the bottom.
Position the drain pan under the converter.
Remove the drain plug from the converter and allow the fluid to drain into the pan.
