Does the Torque Converter heat engine while idling??

66fyssh said
66 Barracuda, 273/904.

I've noticed when idling in Park my engine temp will sit at 180* all day long. When sitting in traffic in Drive, the engine temp will increase above 180*. It won't go above 195*, but I'm curious to know what causes it to increase. Will the torque converter cause it?

I'm idling about 850 RPM in Park and 675 RPM in gear.

Thanks!
Click to expand...

I see AJ gave you the long answer.
The short one is absolutely, and the engine will even warm up quicker if the trans is in gear because of the long answer.