BW35 torque converter
 

My 1800ES with BW35 auto box is a bit sluggish off the mark and somewhat lethargic on steep hills. I have read that a failing stator clutch in the torque converter may be the problem.

Any autobox experts able to confirm if this is a reasonable diagnosis?

Also could this be contributing to high fuel consumption?

In my experience when they fail they won't allow the engine to rev up even out of gear because the drag from the converter is too high.

I would make sure that it's not a lack of engine power causing it, and that the kickdown cable is correctly set, as both of these things could cause the performance problem, and high fuel consumption. (As can binding brakes).

I've only ever seen a couple of converters with that sort of problem. Obviously because I've seen it it does mean that it can happen, but it is rare, so eliminate everything else first.

Thanks Harvey. That's exactly the sort of experience I am trying to tap in to! I don't want to pull the gearbox for nothing.

Engine power is OK, I think. I say that because once it gets going, the car goes well. Kickdown also works ok, though not as enthusiastically as in a modern. But I am assuming that is an unfair comparison, not least comparing 3 speeds with 7 or 8.

And I have had the binding brakes situation, resolved with a resultant significant mpg improvement. But my fuel consumption is back under 20 again, without any brake binding now.

When I said a "failing stator clutch" I had in mind that the clutch could be slipping. Is that also what you were considering? On the other hand, I understand that if that clutch seizes it can lead to the drag you refer to, with consequent poor acceleration at higher speeds. But that's not a problem I have.

Is this making any sense?!

I'd make sure that the cable is set to its optimum position. I roadtest to do that, but there should be shift speeds in the WM for various throttle openings. You can't be far off as the kickdown does work.

I also think that if the stator was slipping you would get an increase in engine speed, without an increase in roadspeed. I know you always get that with a converter, but the roadspeed catches up, and with the stator slipping i don't thind they would get back in line.