Torque Converter Lock-Ups

[Greg Hermann]

>There are no iron clad strategies, for TCC.  What some one says is usually
>about their experience.


Just some food for thought:

Allison has been using lock-up torque converters for decades--since well
before the invention of the integrated circuit, probably since before the
invention of the transistor. And, obviously in some VERY heavy duty stuff.

Most of their hydraulically controlled units (virtually anything prior to
1990) engage the converter lock-up clutch when a certain (rather low) road
speed is reached in either the first or second gear used when starting from
rest, and then only "tap" the lock-up clutch during actual shifts (in
hydraulic control models, the valve which does this is actuated by the flow
of fluid involved in applying the clutch for the next gear.)

No brake light circuit interlocks, or anything else like that were used on
the hydraulic control models..

And their converters can be disassembled. Interchange of parts usually
allows setting up the converter to give a torque multiple ratio anywhere
from 1.8 on up to 3.5:1. (By Factory Design)

I haven't really looked at it in detail, but I doubt that the line pressure
in any automatic transmission at idle  speed and throttle position (or
vacuum level) is high enough to achieve a "launch" into an intersection
anyway. (And I think that all would agree that a Cummins 855 would put a
bit more impetus into any such launch than a Chevy!!)

Not to say that there is anything wrong with wearing a belt AND suspenders!

Regards, Greg