how do you determine the best stall speed for your truck. I plan on building a 53-56 F100 and I'm currently building a 429 to put in it. I don't have a tranny yet but I'm looking for what parts i'm going to need. The engine is upgraded for street performance, I don't plan on racing it (just between the lights). and I'd like an automatic. any info would help?

 

My answer is general since I do not know your model truck and engine etc.

Stall speed is a function of the converter and engine power. So it varies a lot.

In general you want a failry mild or low stall speed for daily driving. You don't want a 3,000+ stall speed for daily driving. It is a bit of a PITA in rain and light to light driving and stop and go traffic.

I would choose something a bit higher than stock. If you have higher # gears you might go with something in the 2,500 range or so.

The function of the stall converter is to allow the engine to wind up into the power band of the engine where it can make the best use of the gearing and engine power.

You do NOT want a stall converter for most towing applications. But for street driving they can be a blast. I once had a 3600 stall converter in a Dodge Charger and it was a wild ride, but not really good for commuting, though I did commute a bit in it.

Talk with a reputable tranny shop or speed shop about your application and get some advice from them. Or contact the converter manufacturer for advice.

Be sure to get a good cooler and get a converter that is built for the power you expect. Bearings instead of bushings will help life.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

 

The biggest factor in choosing a stall speed is the cam specs. The cam will ultimately determine where the power band is which will determine the stall speed you need. Obviously, if this is going to be driven on the street quite a bit you don't want a race cam that will start making power at 3500rpm. Most cams will have a specific stall recommendation or at the very least will have a stated rpm range to go off of. Once the cam is picked you can buy a converter to match, or better yet have one built for your specific build. I'd tend to agree with Jim, 2000-2500 is okay for the street, above that and I don't think you'll enjoy driving much, plus you'll tend to build a lot more heat in stop and go traffic.