higher stall converter needed?
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Elder User
Joined: May 2002
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higher stall converter needed?
So, here are my basic questions: Do I need a higher-than-stock stall speed torque converter for my C6? Is it a "must-have" or a "nice-to-have"??? Will I be totally dissatisfied with the stock C6 or will I just lose a few tenths in the quarter?
Here are my specs:
390 + .040 9.5:1 forged pistons
Balanced
Holley 750 carb (also a Holley 600 if the 750 is too big)
PerformerRPM intake manifold,
Crane 341191 solid lifter cam + shell solid lifters
Mildly ported, refreshed iron heads
Dynojunk headers
The engine is not assembled yet, but all of the parts are in and the machine work is slowly getting finished up.
I'm leaning towards just getting it all up and running (I really miss driving it) and then my next project would be rebuilding/fine-tuning the C6 or putting in a 4spd. and I don't want to throw away the $250 for a new converter if I decide to go with the 4spd.
Thanks!
--Matt
Here are my specs:
390 + .040 9.5:1 forged pistons
Balanced
Holley 750 carb (also a Holley 600 if the 750 is too big)
PerformerRPM intake manifold,
Crane 341191 solid lifter cam + shell solid lifters
Mildly ported, refreshed iron heads
Dynojunk headers
The engine is not assembled yet, but all of the parts are in and the machine work is slowly getting finished up.
I'm leaning towards just getting it all up and running (I really miss driving it) and then my next project would be rebuilding/fine-tuning the C6 or putting in a 4spd. and I don't want to throw away the $250 for a new converter if I decide to go with the 4spd.
Thanks!
--Matt
Last edited by mlf72f250; Apr 22, 2003 at 11:25 PM.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,624
Likes: 8
From: Missouri
higher stall converter needed?
My answer would be no. I don't care if its in a dump truck or a go-cart. You will probably have a tad better E.T. with a higher stall but you definitely do not need one. If you do decide to go with one be sure and get a good tranny cooler. Your feet will get heat rash if you don't. I was completely in awe when I felt how hot the trans got with my stall. The 343941 cam is on the hot side of tame if that makes sense.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 451
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From: Balfour
higher stall converter needed?
Go with the 4 speed idea, sorry to undermine auto's but they jes don't cut it when it comes to durability, and accelration. The T-18 4 speed is easier to shift fast than the np 435 4 speed and has better gears for hard acceration. Both are pretty stinkin' tough units too!! My np 435 lasted almost 20 000miles of beating from my 390 4v, and my t-18 has 10 042miles and it's in decent condition still. 
(Ive done 6000rpm drops into 3rd gear with it...more than once)I Highly recomend a 4 speed if you wanna have real fun with that motor.
(Ive done 6000rpm drops into 3rd gear with it...more than once)I Highly recomend a 4 speed if you wanna have real fun with that motor.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,624
Likes: 8
From: Missouri
higher stall converter needed?
I'm sorry. I misread the number. You would greatly benefit from about a 2,500 coverter there. I love that cam. Best solid for the street you can put in an FE if you ask me (being that the rest matches of course.
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Elder User
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higher stall converter needed?
Rat: It sounds like the 2500 stall speed is "nice to have" but not absolutely required with my cam?
macguyver: here is the data you had asked for... 3.73 axle ratio, mostly street, and I'm guessing the weight of an F250 2x4 is between 4000 and 4500 lbs.
macguyver: here is the data you had asked for... 3.73 axle ratio, mostly street, and I'm guessing the weight of an F250 2x4 is between 4000 and 4500 lbs.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,214
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From: Minneapolis, MN
higher stall converter needed?
If you can get enough traction, a 2500 stall would be a lot of fun but for mostly street driving you'll be "using" the converter a lot and generating a lot of heat. (Good tranny cooler required) If you're worried about traction you can stick with the stock converter which will kill off some of your bottom end take-off potential but might be a bit more streetable. It all depends on how you want it to behave.
Just my 2¢
Greg
Just my 2¢
Greg
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,624
Likes: 8
From: Missouri
higher stall converter needed?
I would say macguyver could not have given better advice. If you want to put slicks on it on the weekend then I would say go for the stall. I can't imagine getting any better traction with a stock converter as it is so rediculously easy to light mine up without even mashing the gas but it will reduce the heat situation. A stall actually gives you a little better control on the street as there is more of a "cushion" to deal with if the wheels break loose. It definitely is not worth the trouble though for the sole purpose of cruising up and down the road.
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Elder User
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higher stall converter needed?
This is great! Again, Rat & macguyver, I appreciate your sharing your expertise and experiences in this area. Until I buy some slicks, I'll stick with the stock converter.
