This comming summer I am putting in a built 396 (~400HP) and a TH400. The rear end is a 3.73

It is a street/strip car, but also has to do some highway driving. Are there kits to make the TH400 Torque converter to lockup when cruising? If so how much does it improve the RPM with regards to mph??

The car will probably see a little Nitrous in the 1/4 mile. Will the Lockup interfear with matters? Or is it completely "out of the way" when not in use?

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have now>>>>> am building
2.73 open 10bolt>>>>>>3.73 posi 12bolt
350>>>>396 w/nitrous
TH350>>>>TH400 (haven't found one yet...)
shooting for 12s in 1/4
college student budget!

There is no lockup converter for the 400. There is however something you can do. Buicks '65 and '66 [maybe other years as well] that had a switch pitch converter in their 400s. This alowed a high stall/low stall setup. I understand that it is not that difficult to convert the Chev 400 case if you have the Buick trans to rob parts from. Kenny-Bell used to sell them.

BUMMER,

How do the two differ in gear ratios?

How much cash to bullit-proof (~450HP) a 700-R4??

The lower stall is about 1600, and by flipping the switch, it jumps up to around 2600. Have to check with some of the Buick suppliers or the web page to get one for your 400.


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1972 Malibu (1 st. car) Project waiting to happen
Team Chevelle # 427
A.C.E.S. # 1282

[This message has been edited by Doug Garland (edited 02-20-2000).]

I have a lockup switch/pitch in my T-400. It was bought from Poston Performance in Texas. You have to buy both the kit and the special converter from them. It is a great kit and really works good. They have a stall for everyone, no matter what the stall you need. Mine is a 4000 hi-stall and 1600 low-stall. All at the flip of a switch. The kit and converter cost around 500.00 total. You have to have a competent shop install it unless you are good at autos. It is relatively easy. It is really worth the cost too. If you have any more ?s just mail me at c_olinde@hotmail.com

Chris

Starting in the late 70's,GM had a "corporate" TH350 that had a lock-up converter. You may try one of those. The TH350 takes less horsepower to operate,too.

[This message has been edited by OPGI (edited 02-23-2000).]