I recently installed a FTI SRLSxxxx converter in my LS1/4L60e Trans Am. I don't remember confirming if the snout on the converter went into the crank pilot. I saw where some converters came with an LT to LS pilot extension so the converter could be used with a long or short crank. I bought this converter used so I don't know if it would have came with that or not. I just assumed if it was an "SRLS" part number it was for an LS application where as an “SRLT” part number would be for an LT. I know the converter to flexplate spacing is correct and it bolted up fine but now I am second guessing if the snout actually reached the crank pilot. I'm mostly concerned about it causing the crankshaft thrust washer to fail. I plan to pull the inspection plate this weekend to check but curious to see if anyone could tell me for sure to ease my mind til then. Thanks.

 

I have not seen this happen, however. If the torque converter snout does not sit in the back of the crankshaft. You will immediately have an "out of balance problem and immediate wear on the pump bushing. If you can move the torque converter up and down (with the 3 bolts out that hold the TC to flex plate), then it is not sitting in back of the crankshaft correctly.

 

For future reference: I jacked up the car earlier and pulled the inspection plate on the bellhousing. Seems like I do actually need the LT to LS pilot extension. Decided not to drive the car until I get it installed. Sucks having to pull the trans out again for such a simple piece. Here’s a picture for reference. You can see the clean, greased snout on the face of the converter and about an 1/8-3/16” gap to the crankshaft pilot.

 

I doubt you'll have any thrust issues with your crank if the spacer is missing needed. As PBA mentioned you'll have a nasty vibration and premature pump failure.

Do you know if you have long or short crank?

-Dalton

feel free to call me at the shop for faster help.

 

I checked it this weekend and tried to update this thread but apparently my posts with an attachment still have to be approved. It is a short crank. I did notice a slight vibration holding the steering wheel at idle but that could have been there previously from the cam. The picture will show the gap but seems like about a 1/4" gap between the snout and pilot hole. Ordered an adapter and hopefully will have time to install it this weekend.

 

Sounds like that was it then. let me know if you have any other questions.
-Dalton

 

I also have an FTI triple disc 3200.....just put it in with my new 4L80E. Pinion angle looks good. So this might be my issue too.....converter not fully seated to the crank. I have terrible vibrations from start up, idling cruising slow and anything after 45mph is unbearable.

Not saying its an FTI converter issue......but the fitment could be off from the install. This just gives us one more thing to check when I get a chance to drive it to the shop to try to figuree out this damn vibration.

Love the converter so far........

 

Same here stilealive, have about 30 minutes run time and a small pull on it currently and love it so far. Hopefully hasn't caused any damage. I test fit it to be sure the bolts lined up to the flexplate but didn't think about the pilot. Maybe my mistake will save someone in the future that sees this from having to pull the trans twice

 

So...what kind of damage can occur from this being the reason for the vibration?

Engine damage?

Would I be leaking oil from the front of rear of engine?

 

Will the vibration be there while idling in Park?

How about foot on the brake and in "D".......will it vibrate?

 

If the converter pilot isn't engaged in the crank it will vibrate any time the engine is running.
Worn bushings in the trans are the likely results.

 

So if I’ve only driven it 50 miles with zero racing it hard.....I shouldn’t have damage?

Brand new 4L80E went in 50 miles ago. Along with new flax plate and new converter. Hope it’s ok.

Cars been sitting 3 weeks. I get back to the USA in 3 more weeks. I’ll drive it slow to a LS shop as soon as I get back to check it all out.

 

Do factory stalls sit in the crank snout too?

 

I think they do. I could tell the factory snout was definitely longer and seemed to have a ring around where I think it would have been in the crank pilot

 

Yes damage is possible in 50 miles. Think about the number of crank rotations in that amount of time...lots
Yes all converters sit in the snout of the crank.
Have any of you guys read the sticky on converter spacing and the differences and reasons for the spacers...it's at the top of the auto trans forum page...read it. very informative.

 

Yes, I've read it a few times. I just assumed an LS part number would work for a factory LS application. Helping friends with converter swaps in the past, it seems like this hasn't been an issue. Now I know to check the converter bolt holes and the pilot in the future.

 

^^^ Yea, interesting. I never knew about this crank snout thing. Glad FTI sent the coupler and made me go "wtf is this?" LOL. Learning is always fun.

"you read the instructions right?" "......It came with instructions?"

 

Without the torque-converter pilot being supported...
The forces both generated by, and forces acted upon will cause the torque-converter to run untrue from its axis of rotation and cause a massive amount of damage...

 

No damage to engine.....only the trans can occur....?

What will this damage actually be....?

Im sure the LS shop im bringing it to will know.....I’m just curious what I might be looking at...

thanks.

 

Makes me wonder about my current trailblazer torque converter lol, its got 3 1/4 mile passes on it and probably 1000miles. I never checked the snout. Another reason I need to get my FTI in ASAP I guess.