ive read a lot about torque converters but im still lost when it comes to exactly what they they do and if there good or bad for transmissions. i have a 2001 trans am and am curious to know if its really worth it since my car is an auto. who makes a good converter and what are prices like?? i dont wanna spend a ton of money either. also where can i get on installed or is something that a smart guy can do??

 

Basically, a higher stall torque converter will slip your car into its power band, it helps on shift extention(the amount of RPMs you lose during a shift), and if you purchase a very efficent converter you will prob gain a couple of MPH's on your trap speed. When mated with a proper tranny cooler/shift kit it will not be harmful to your transmission. Your local transmission shop or a sponsor can install your converter from 300-400 bucks including shift kit and tranny cooler. I would advise purchasing something with a higher stall than 3000. Also you are defiantly going to need new tires. Good Luck man check out the sponsors for a wide selection of verters----->

WeS

 

You say you're not sure it's worth it since your "car is an auto". Actually, converters are ONLY for automatics! A converter basicly replaces what a manual transmission would use as a clutch, but instead of using a plate and friction material, it uses fluid and turbine-style pumps to allow some slippage, and multiply torque (thus, torque converter). All automatics have converters, but going to one with a higher stall (like 3500rpm) gives great benefits, between .4 and .7 in the quater mile. They also help from a roll by eliminating the "dead spots" on kickdown.

An automatic car with a good converter against a simillarly modded 6 speed will usually have an advantage in a drag racing situation.

 

A higher stall converter is arguably the best mod for the automatic cars. As a matter of fact, if I could choose only one mod for my car and everything else had to be stock, an aftermarket converter would be it.

 

Word , what he said.

 

i agree with these guys....3000 or highewr stall is THE mod to make an auto car real fast real easy....i dropped 6 tenths with a 3400 and some drag radials...

as was said tho....spend the extra 50 bucks and add a GOOD tranny cooler....