Yellow Bullet Forums banner

What Torque converter manufacture do you guys recommend?

1 reading
17K views 40 replies 25 participants last post by  sscamaro2485  
#1 ·
I was going to put this question in the transmission forum, but I didn't want to disrespect Hutch nor step on his toes in case anyone here might be customers of any of his competitors in the biz. I have a BBC big inch N/A engine in a heavy weight drag car, (4,000+lb Chevelle). It isn't a maximum effort car/engine by any means, and I hope to be in the high 9's with it and run 1.3 short times launching off the TH400 transbrake on Bias-ply Hoosiers. I was gonna go with one manufacture that used to be good, but I was recently warned by three people including one pro engine builder and racer that they've gone downhill lately.

But I'm not here to bash anyone/any place though. I'd just like to hear what converter(s) you guys recommend for hard and consistent launches, and for high efficiency operation with 5% or less slippage after/above the stall speed RPM, with a non-lock-up converter). Please help a novice out if you can. I don't mind spending some big coin if the converter in question is worth it. I happen to have the opinion that with converters, you only get what you pay for, and a whole lot of guys don't think twice about paying big $$ on a clutch and pressure plate set-ups for a stick car, so IMO why not the same thing for a converter? Thanks in advance
 
#23 ·
I have two of the Neal chance and spare guts for fine tuning.
Absolutely amazing service and quality.
I’ll 100% have Marty do another one for my new Sonny’s engine.
I trust him completely!!!
 
#12 ·
You got lucky there,they have sent us backwards on the 2 we had from them. I never ordered anything from them just bought cars with their stuff in them. We do our own trans and converters now. Much happier with results. We have had good results with pro torque on our blown stuff and Chance prods on other things.
 
#11 ·
It sounds like you're looking for recommendations on torque converters for your high-performance drag car. While I can provide some general guidance, it's important to note that specific recommendations can depend on various factors, such as engine specifications, vehicle weight, rear-end gear ratio, and intended use.

When selecting a torque converter, here are some key considerations:

Stall speed: Choose a torque converter with a stall speed that matches your engine's power band and torque curve. A higher stall speed allows for more aggressive launches, but you want to ensure it's within the optimal range for your engine's performance characteristics.

Converter efficiency: Look for a torque converter that offers high efficiency with minimal slippage after the stall speed. This helps maximize power transfer and overall performance.

Quality and durability: Invest in a torque converter from a reputable manufacturer known for producing high-quality, durable products. Consider the materials used, construction techniques, and any specific features that enhance performance and longevity.

Application-specific recommendations: Reach out to fellow drag racers, engine builders, and experienced enthusiasts who have similar setups and ask for their recommendations. Their firsthand experiences and insights can be valuable in selecting the right torque converter for your specific application.
 
#18 ·
Buy something that's bolt together so you can easily make adjustments in the future. So many variables in converters. You tell the builder all the info about your car, which he will use for an educated guess on what core, turbine, pump, and stator combo. If you estimate high or low on the HP, weight, torque curve, etc, then the converter builder gets the blame.

Building a converter is like having a deaf sketch artist listening to a blind man give a description of a suspect. Most racers are idiots and really it's a miracle converters are right as much as they are.
 
#21 ·
Thank you to all of you guys for your input and advice. I went on four of the websites of the converter companies that were mentioned, filled out their spec sheets and sent them in. I'll go from there based on what each of them recommend, and what and if they explain their product and the model they recommend, so I can try to make an informed and educated decision. I also welcome anyone else's comments/recommendations. Some of these converters aren't cheap, but like I said, when it comes to converters, I believe that you only get what you pay for.
 
#35 ·
Thanks Warp! I am moving along with my project, pump gas 496 BBC, you have been a great help on my entire build! I really appreciate your guidance!🙏👍🏻😎
 
  • Like
Reactions: Warp Speed
#39 ·
I have always had really good luck with ATI converters over the years. Mine have all of the requirements that you are looking for. That being said I have a Coan set up in the car right now. I took the glide out and have a Coan XLT turbo 350 and one of their converters. So far the 3 speed is .03 - .06 quicker in the 60 and 330 times. Last outing the car went 1.26 60 ft and averaged a 1.27. The glide would have been 1.32 - 1.33 in the same conditions.