US Patent 6840361 Torque converter clutch solenoid assembly

A torque converter clutch solenoid assembly for controlling the converter clutch apply cycle of a General Motors 4L60-E transmission. The present solenoid assembly includes a solenoid snout having a longitudinal bore terminating in a fluid orifice wherein a one-way check valve has been installed to prevent transmission fluid backflow from the torque converter when not operating. The present check valve effectively replaces and performs the function of the original equipment converter clutch signal orifice check valve located in the converter clutch signal circuit, which actuates the torque converter clutch apply valve. The present solenoid assembly precludes the malfunction of the original equipment torque converter clutch apply valve resulting from physical displacement of the original equipment signal orifice check valve under fluid pressure. The present solenoid snout also resolves a stress crack problem inherent in the original molded plastic design by fabricating the solenoid snout from a durable aluminum material.