I have a 2000 ford escort. I have removed all the bolts but can't seem to get the torque converter to slide back. What is the trick?

 

You had to miss one bolt holding the trans to the engine somewhere.

 

You say bolts? Are you talking tranny bell housing? It has 4 nuts that need to be removed. TC should rock around just a bit and move back little over 1/4 inch.

 

The torque converter has a protrusion (circular extension ) in the center that usually fits into a hole in the center of the flywheel. It's about 2 inches in diameter and extends about 3/8 of an inch from the converter shell. I suspect that extension is possibly rusted or just stuck in that hole. Spray some penetrating lube that can get to the center of the converter and flywheel and that should help to loosen it so it can be removed. This is one of those instances where patience pays. Merry Christmas !