TorqueFlite (tork-flight) was the registered trademarked name of Chrysler Corporation’s first fully automatic 3-speed transmission, which was introduced in 1956. TorqueFlite was introduced on the heels of the company’s two speed automatic, christened PowerFlite, which made its debut in 1954.
Aside from its engineering, the original TorqueFlite’s most notable consumer feature was its push-button control panel which was placed to left the side of the dashboard. Buttons for Drive, Reverse, Neutral and Low forward gear ranges were included. Initially, a Park position was not included, necessitating that drivers leave their cars in Neutral with the parking brake set. Later versions of the transmission added a Park lever, which the driver actuated after placing the car in neutral.
Chrysler converted to traditional shift levers in 1965 for all automatic transmissions.
Still in use today in DaimlerChrysler’s truck lines, TorqueFlite has been refined throughout its lifespan.
TorqueFlite was an available option on all Chrsyler products (Plymouth, Dodge, De Soto, Chrysler and Imperial) and on various American Motors (AMC), Jeep and Monteverdi [1] brand vehicles as well.
TorqueFlite is a registered trademark.
External Links
http://www.allpar.com/mopar/torqueflite.html TorqueFlite Transmission
