TH350 launching in 2nd?
TH350 launching in 2nd? I posted this in drag race tech as well. Whats the consensus on this? Car in sig with a full manual TH350, no transbrake or 2-step. I cannot build any boost in first gear on the footbrake as it will push through. However, dicking around I was able to get boost on the footbrake in 2nd. How harsh would it be on the trans to try a 2nd gear launch? Thanks guys!
I thought about that as well, but again didn't know how hard it would be on the trans. Yes, it's a full manual valve body. Still new to stalled autos as the car was born a 6sp. So build boost in 2nd & throw to first when light turns, correct?
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From: Ohio
I would say its worth a shot. Start small. Without a 2-step you'll be modulating RPM and boost with your foot.
I use relays to lock my 4L80e into overdrive on the line, can stall it up to 4500 and 18 PSI if I want to. Then I let go of the button to turn off the relay, it downshifts into 1st and blows through the brakes. I've done it dozens of times with no issues.
I would say its worth a shot. Start small. Without a 2-step you'll be modulating RPM and boost with your foot.
I would say its worth a shot. Start small. Without a 2-step you'll be modulating RPM and boost with your foot.
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Verdad Gallardo Restricted User
Joined: Mar 2014
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From: Ohio
Since its manual shift, it should work fine. As soon as you click into first it'll blow through the brakes. A line lock kit is $120 or so from Summit. You could shift into 2nd gear and mount a momentary button or toggle switch that would lock the brakes for you so you wouldn't have to use your foot. Let off button when it hits first gear and launch.
I have a line lock on the car, but the switch is mounted where I have to use my shifting hand, lol. Joe, what are your thoughts on leaving in 2nd gear? The car has a 3.90 gear & im afraid 1st may have traction issues anyway, although I am running a 275/60r15 drag radial. Ive read where a lot of guys leave in 2nd & sometimes net a better et due to the smoother launch. I plan on getting a Rossler glide with a brake the first of the year, thanks!
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Joined: Mar 2014
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From: Ohio
I tried launching my Nova in 2nd gear. 60 foot was a lousy 1.8 leaving at 4 PSI. Unless you launch at a high RPM, its going to bog down out of boost. Best case scenario is your converter stalls really high for you, which has its own downsides.
Smoother launch? Sure, but I easily added half a second to my ET.
Smoother launch? Sure, but I easily added half a second to my ET.