Torque Converters

[VermontTy]

Is there a good reason(s) to 'copy' what some others here are using for converters for a given setup, or will any converter of the same stall and options (lockup, multi-disc, etc) from another manufacturer work just as well. I'm trying to decide on a converter, and it seems like there really is a wide variety of conveters used. RPM sells a Precision 9.5" 3000 stall with full lockup for $1k, while Summit sells a TCI 3000 stall with lockup for $450. I'm just trying to find out what the money difference is, if the money is worth it, what the best way to select a converter is, and what will give me the most driveability and performance for my build.

Its tough, as I don't have any bolt-ons currently, but the truck will be 99% street driven, so a rediculous stall isn't very practical. I will go with something around a T66, or a smaller dual BB turbo if I hit the jackpot, but nothing smaller than say a PTE44. Driveability is key, but quick spool and a strong top end pull are equally important. The motor is out of my truck for the moment, and swapping in the new converter won't get any easier than it is now. I can read recipes all day and copy parts, but want to learn a little more about why everyone decided to go with whatever converter they chose.....sorry if its a noobish request. Thanks for the help fellas.....

-adam

 

[Hotwire]

Re: Torque Converters

Not sure about the turbo setup, I now you need a little rpm to build boost on launch, but if you aren't running a radical cam or anything I would try to keep the stall to around 2800 or so, over 3 is pretty much pouring gas down the drain.

I had a tci super street fighter 3500 stall in my 89 s-10 ext cab w/ an LT4. Was cutting 1.8 60' w/ slicks, the str on that converter was awesome, had a very tight flash on it and I thought was a very quality item. Plus it being about a 1/3 of the size of the stock converter allowed the motor to rev a little more freely. I vigilante, precision and all them have good converters, but I really enjoyed the tci and will buy another one for this project when the money comes around.

http://216.77.188.54/coDataImages/p/Groups/12/12409/folders/229287/1813428P1170005r.JPG

 

[dgoodhue]

Re: Torque Converters

Their is a difference between a quality stall converter and cheap one. The smaller the diameter, the less rotating mass. On 12 sec Corvettes, I have guy go from cheapy 12" converter to 9.5 Vigilante with the same stall and gain 0.15 in the 1/4 mile. A quality TC can also have better street manners under part throttle.

 

[Silly]

Re: Torque Converters

TCT is the best convertor IMHO

 

[Stangbeater]

Re: Torque Converters

Adam, I have an 2800 stall Art Carr for sale.

 

[nallj92]

Re: Torque Converters

http://www.transmissioncenter.net/highperf700r4.htm
go to the bottom of the page, the raptor #2 converter 2800 stall
Ive had it in for over a year, and works awesome, these guys have the stuff and know there stuff
decently priced too
other guys have it on here too..

 

[bezerk]

Re: Torque Converters

i got 2 trucks that run at the moment, one is a completly stock Sy, and the other is a build Ty with a 3k stall converter.
if you are planning of daily driving, i would keep the stock converter and use a bb turbo for faster spool up on a bigger one.

 

[TurboJunk]

Re: Torque Converters

the difference ive noticed in converters i have installed on customer cars is the feel of them while street driving. For example a vigilanty converter feels like you have a high stall converter. YANK on the other hand normal driving isnt as harsh meaning it doesnt feel like you have you give it as much gas/doesnt feel any different from stock almost. these 2 are a good conparsion cause they are similar in price. Now i had a TCI in my tyclone and in my dads 10.5 in tire car it had problems behind a big block but in our turcks its fine....
Me personally im buying a YANK for my truck its $650 and well worth it to me.... it will set my finish date back a month but i wont be sorry (i hope!)

 

[Hotwire]

Re: Torque Converters

TCI in action @ Rockingham Dragway 1/4 mile. 13.38 @ 101, 1.8 60', 95 degrees

Usually used about 1/8 - 1/4 throttle to take off normally, would rev to around 1200 rpm, then would flash around 3200 when i hit it. :tup: God I miss launches like that!

 

[KETCH-UP]

Re: Torque Converters

You can call it monkey see monkey do, but I am satisfied with the billet 9/11 unit. No vibes and it seems to couple up just right with stock to mild turbo upgrades. I am using a 2600, and some may say that isn't high enough to be worth it. But on a street only sy/ty, it really "woke it up" without creating drawbacks.

 

[cloneman315]

Re: Torque Converters

adam that art carr is a good deal i have a art carr and it works perfect no vibrations etc

 

[qbnkiller]

Re: Torque Converters

I saw the same thing when I put in my (last) 2600-stall converter..it's up for sale now...

 

[msheller]

Re: Torque Converters

this might help...I have a converter for sale off my stock tranny...

it's a 2800 stall precision industries Vigilante w/ lockup...300$ Many claim its the best converter for gm

Matt

 

[Windedv6]

Re: Torque Converters

The billet cover 9/11 is what I use. It's been in for several years and launchs my 4,000 lb brick in the 1.40s sixty foot. No shakes rattle or otherwise. and perfect street manners. I run a 3,400 stall. My was made by TCS.