GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The torque converter clutch (TCC) system uses controls that are internal as well as external to the transmission.

The internal components of the TCC system include:

  1. The TCC Solenoid Assembly which energizes to redirect the transmission fluid to the converter clutch control valve in the fluid pump assembly.
  2. The Fluid Pump Assembly which contains the TCC control valve. The TCC control valve determines the method of fluid feed to the torque converter assembly in order to enable or disable the clutch mechanism.
  3. The TCC Control Valve houses the TCC solenoid assembly.

The external components of the TCC system include the following components:

  1. The Stoplamp Switch which is used in order to avoid stalling the engine when braking. The converter clutch is released any time the brakes are applied.
  2. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is an electronic component that controls gear shift and idle-up according to the signals from each sensor. It receives input signals and controls the operation of the solenoid valves that apply the clutch mechanism when proper operating conditions are met.
  3. The Throttle Position (TP) Sensor sends throttle position information to the powertrain control module.
  4. The Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) sends vehicle speed information to the powertrain control module.
  5. The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor sends engine coolant temperature information to the powertrain control module.
  6. The Cruise Control Module (if equipped) sends cruise control information to the powertrain control module.