Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Overhaul & Testing - 700-R4/4L60: Description
Turbo Hydra-Matic (THM) 4L60 is a fully automatic trans-mission consisting of a 3-element hydraulic torque converter with a Torque Converter Clutch (TCC). Two planetary gear sets, 5 multiple-disc clutches, one sprag clutch, one roller clutch and a band provide friction elements necessary to produce 4 forward speeds, last of which is Overdrive. See Fig 1 .
A hydraulic system, pressurized by a variable capacity vane type pump, provides pressure required to operate friction elements and automatic controls. Transmission contains an auxiliary valve body for smoother Drive and Reverse engagement. Temperature switch may be used to apply TCC to prevent transmission overheating. Temperature switch reduces fluid temperature in Overdrive when TCC is not applied.
Temperature switch mounts on valve body and sits in transmission pan fluid. See Figure . At normal operating temperature or less, switch is open. As fluid in pan heats to 270-286°F (134-140°C), switch closes to allow TCC to apply until fluid in pan cools to 250-268°F (121-131°C). Heat is reduced when TCC is applied and torque multiplication function of converter is bypassed.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.