I'm looking at an 85 rs with a 305 and it says it runs good but needs torque converter. All i really know is that a torque converter is part of the transmission? What exactley is it, how much is a new one, and how hard is it to install? The car listed as $850 OBO by the way. Thanks for any help.

 

Needs a torque converter could mean the transmission is shot.

 

True...most people out there selling cars for 850$ aren't the best at TC diagnostics. I would know mine is shot only because I know how it worked when new....I agree with Black...probobly more than just the TC. Its not hard to replace, just very time consuming as you are removing the trans and TC from the flexplate, which is tough.

 

Black and DJS are right on. Assume you will need a transmission also. Replacing a torque converter isnt for the beginner. You have to get under the car and remove the entire transmission. The torque converter is between the engine and the transmission. Unless you have access to a lift, or are real comfortable working under jackstands (real tall jackstands) this may be a big project for you to take on. If you can get the parts cheap enough and have the area to work on the car, make sure you at least have a buddy to help manhandle the transmission. Good luck.