Abstract: A clutch member of a torque converter of an automatic transmission fitted slidingly with a splined connection between a number of extending teeth of the clutch member and channels of a torque converter housing configured to slidingly engage the teeth. At least two of the teeth are elongated for a distance beyond engagement with a base of the respective engaging channels and bent at right angles to the original tooth extension direction. The extent of parallel engagement of the bent tooth and base of the channel of the splined connection is significantly increased and fretting wear between the teeth and the channels of the housing is reduced or eliminated.