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Old Sep 17, 2008 | 05:55 PM
  #1  
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Default Torque Converters

I was just wondering if torque converters really make a difference and if so by how much? Also if you were to reccommend a torque converter which one would you?
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Old Sep 18, 2008 | 05:48 AM
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well, I have had a Precision Industries (most common) torque converter on my GS400 for roughly 2 years now and it is the BEST bang for the buck! The stock torque converters on the GS400 (not sure about the GS300 or GS430's) has an 1800rpm stall. The higher the stall the more power delivered to the drive wheels. It does NOT add power to the engine it simply leverages more to the wheels down to the ground. I have a 3000rpm stall torque converter. Most commonly used is anywhere from 2800-3200rpm; where the manufacturer can make any stall speed you request for free. Be advised that if you go all out and try to get a 3600rpm stall TC you will have drivability issues as I have read on here; this is why people stick to the range above. Also, the higher the stall the more stress (heat) it will add to your tranny so a stand alone transmission cooler ($60) is a MUST!

It makes a huge difference! Put it this way, I can simply mash the gas and I will spin the tires for a good 10' and go sideways from a standstill. There is ABSOLUTELY no more lag. I remember when my GS almost felt like it was "spooling" up to take off...no more of that anymore.

Also, you might want to research getting a Limited Slip Differential (posi-traction) for more traction because our cars come stock with an open differential (one wheel spins moreso upon load). FYI I have a 3.76 LSD so it adds traction to my car PLUS adds more acceleration because the stock rear diff on a GS400/430 is 3.23 and I went up to a 3.76 ratio. Without the LSD I'm sure you would spin a lot more with the TC which is NOT what you want. I am currently looking for wider wheels/tires for the rear for more traction on my ride. Sorry for the long respsonse, just trying to show you all the options and why...GL!
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Old Sep 25, 2008 | 11:52 AM
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Rock-a-lex: after reading your response, I immediately started looking into torque converters so I can get rid of the lag issue on the transmission.
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Old Sep 25, 2008 | 05:08 PM
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Ya there definitely is a noticable lag on GS4's.
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Old Sep 26, 2008 | 03:09 AM
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A higher stall torque converter will increase the torque output of the engine until the TC couples to the same speed as the engine. I run a 3600rpm stall on mine, but I don't recommend that for most people unless you have a big turbo to spool.
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Old Sep 26, 2008 | 09:03 AM
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Originally Posted by JeffTsai
A higher stall torque converter will increase the torque output of the engine until the TC couples to the same speed as the engine. I run a 3600rpm stall on mine, but I don't recommend that for most people unless you have a big turbo to spool.
3600rpm WoW. I am thinking around 2800 - 3000rpm should get me going.
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