Hmm. The idea of a TC is to bridge the fixed ratios in a conventional auto, and in doing so it wastes rather a lot of power - hence these transmissions don't get used much in small cars. A CVT doesn't have fixed ratios so has no need of a torque convertor which would negate the better efficiency of the design anyway. It could be a fluid flywheel, I suppose, but again these reduce the efficiency. I think you may need to find an auto specialist who isn't pulling your plonker...
Thanks. The place in question - Mackie's in Glasgow - apparently does all the overhauling for Nissan UK in Scotland under contract, so I expect they know what they're on about. "Torque converter" could have been my mishearing - of course you are quite right that a CVT box shouldn't need one. Apparently you can tell by looking at the gearbox casing: if it has an oil filter it doesn't have an electric clutch.
Ian
depends on the year, later ones ? have a torque converter
With a CVT? Can you guess at why? Seems a nonsense to me.
Well it's probably cheaper than a magnetic clutch & if it's attacged to a CVT you can lock it up almost immediatly.
Nissan's answer?
"The new HYPER CVT adopts a torque converter for enhanced start-off acceleration performance and improved driveability at very low vehicle speeds. It also incorporates full electronic control of speed ratio changes to provide approximately 10% better fuel economy than the existing N-CVT."
from the 1999 Micra/March PR here:
replying to Ian Johnston, Alchi wrote: I do sympathise.my micrà belonged to my dear late wife. The gearchànge on the
1996 Micra CVT just àbout works it is so stiff. I àm sad to lose the càr. Hàve you or ànyoneplease àny suggestions? £2000 is a lot for whàt could be a. Low cost repair. Do we hàve to hàve a full replàcement box?Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
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