Torque converter inquiry

[95LT1Z28]

Can anyone explain to me The function of an aftermarket stall converter. I know it raises the engine speed that the car will launch at but I don't understand why i would need a stall if I'm going to be putting in a 383 and using it for street driving and the occasional race. Basically a general rundown of stall converters and why they need to be upgraded would be nice. Thanks

[justahoe]

the main purpose of a stall is to get your engine in the rpm range it functions best at... i have a lightly modded lt1 with a 3000 stall and love it... you'll be surprised at the huge difference it will make

[95LT1Z28]

Aren't stalls hard on drivetrain components like u joints etc. With the sudden engagement at a high rpm?

[Chris]

Aren't stalls hard on drivetrain components like u joints etc. With the sudden engagement at a high rpm?


Not quite. A torque converter is a fluid coupler. It basically slips the input until a certain rpm in which it will engage. Its almost like a slipping clutch the car will still move but not all of the power will transfer completely until the preset limit. So there is no harsh dropping of the clutch type of transfer.Which is why a4 guys are so much nicer to the 10bolt rather than m6 guys that rev to the sky and dump the clutch .
If I didnt explain that well someone please correct me.

[joelster]

Aren't stalls hard on drivetrain components like u joints etc. With the sudden engagement at a high rpm?

Yes they are harder on components than a stock stall simply because they allow the engine to really get up into its powerband before applying the power to the drivetrain (assuming you chose the correct stall ;)). However, even a huge stalled car will not shock the drivetrain like a T56 equipped car will on a hard launch. There is ALWAYS slippage with a torque converter until it locks up (if so-equipped with a lock-up converter). I wouldn't worry about the u-joints.

Now if want to go and get a tranny brake equipped auto car, than that is a whole other ball game.

[MoeHorsePower]

The cubic inch of a motor is not the deciding factor for the need for a higher than stock stall converter, It's the camshaft that dictates the need and size..

[95LT1Z28]

Yeah I am aware that the cubes dont decide the cam I was just using this example of why I would need a car with this certain engine. But now I understand Thanks guys.