What is that manual button on the auto stick

[NiftySVX]

The TCC lockup clutch does not have any effect on the ratios of the ranges provided by the two planetaries. Due to the nature of the torque converter , it allows for torque multiplication and a speed difference between impeller and turbine, so no mechanical clutch is required between engine and transmission. The torque converter will lock and unlock based on a calculation that accounts for gear position and cruise status among other factors that can and has been expressed graphically by members with the understanding and tools to do so. The purpose of this clutch is to allow the entire torque converter to direct couple the impeller and turbine so there is essentially a direct drive just like in a manual transmission for purposes of economy and fluid heat reduction. Early autos did not have a locking converter.

The manual switch and it's purpose is explained quite well in the owners manual where it shows what gears will be available when the stick is in various positions. Manual 1 will hold 1st gear until 6500 rpm, and also takes a more aggressive approach to transfer apply in that gear. Manual 2 starts in 2nd ratio but there is no slipping of the holding device in the transmission, everything operates normally, except 1st gear is not used, and again the transfer apply is more. Manual 3 allows for use of gears 2 and 3. Manual in D does not have any purpose or effect if I recall correctly.

As for the transmission filter, it was added by Subaru to catch the particles which, coincidentally, were from the deterioration of the clutch friction material on the TC clutch. This was not a real fix, but a field fix as it would be costly to perform the correct repair which was to replace the converter with an updated part and to remove the heat dissipating screen from the cooler tube in the radiator. This repair was one of the first updates to the transmission system and cars produced with these new parts did not have the in line filter as it is not necessary. Similarly, If your transmission has been replaced with one from Subaru your converter will be new and will not deteriorate, and no filter is needed. I would also reccomend radiator replacement if the car has the old style with the screen in it. It is a common misconception that this screen inside the radiator is a filter, which I have attempted to eradicate from the minds of our fine members.

It is my opinion that you should not add an external filter because of the possible restriction it could cause and the very severe damage it can cause to the transmission "hard" parts. Many have been running them for several years without issue, but again, it is not necessary unless you still have the original converter and radiator. As for an external cooler, you need to be sure to select one that has very little restriction, or you can skip the selection process and use the one that I am using under the thread "the ultimate transmission cooler". It is a high flow unit that eliminates the need for any other component in the cooler circuit including an external filter and the original restrictive radiator cooler.