1993 Dodge - Does It have a lock up torque converter

[GTX_Joel]

I just called HUGHES and they said my 93 has a lock up converter. I didn't think it did. It has the big cooler under the bed. Whats the straight scoop - lock up or no? Thanks, Joel

 

[paccool]

NO! the 93's do not have a lockup converter. Sounds like you need to go to a different company if they don't know that.



Try DTT, I'm happy with the 89% converter I had put in a couple of months ago.

 

[bgilbert]

Fluid coupling not lockup. Bill

 

[GTX_Joel]

Ok, I went and ordered one from DTT. an 89%. But it is back ordered for a week. $650 bucks, I hope it helps alot!

 

[cerberusiam]

I am told the 618 was slated for release in the 93 models and the production run of the trans did not make it until late enough they were cancelled until the new body style. However, there have several individuals claim to have a late 93 with a lockup converter and it was ordered and delivered that way. The only way to tell for sure is check the trans plate and or wiring harness to make sure what you have. The converters will not interchange between models.

 

[CDegner]

A lot of books show that the 93 has the lock-up TC so it is not just Hughes. Hughes has been in the transmission business for quite some time and everything I have heard about them has been good.



Carl

 

[csnider]

Man,

I wish my 93 had a lockup converter. That's the only thing I'm not happy with. Too much power slipping by... . It's interesting to know that there are a few "special order" 93s with a locker. .

I've been holding off on a rear seal repair till I hear from one of these guys who have installed the Hughes TC. . Who's gonna give a performance/economy report ?...

 

[dan brooks]

I installed the Hughes converter a few months ago and I'm really happy with it. I gained just over 1 MPG average over a 3500 mile trip (took the same route last year, loaded the same, etc).



I haven't been able to track fuel mileage unloaded because my driving has varied too much from my normal routine... and I also turned the pump up some a few weeks ago.

 

[csnider]

Thanks Dan,

Do you notice any improvement in around town driving? Does it take a lot less pedal to get it going from a dead stop to traffic speeds?. . Thanks

 

[dan brooks]

It did make a significant difference in response - the truck moves with less throttle, both from a stop and while rolling. It's really noticable with a heavy load - I towed my Jeep on a trailer (~6000 lbs combined) last weekend and I was surprised at how responsive it was.

 

[csnider]

Thanks for the info Dan,

that puts me over the top right there. I guess I'll be getting one when I do my rear main seal...

 

[MRickard]

Dan: Which Hughes TC did you have installed?

 

[dan brooks]

I'll have to dig up the part number when I get home from work, but if you have access to the catalog look under 727 trans instead of 518/46RH. The non-lockup converters are listed there.



If anyone has questions about the converter specs, call the Tucson Hughes shop at 520-624-4441 and speak to Dale. The guy really knows his stuff and is great to deal with.

 

[MRickard]

I noticed they have a tow, a diesel, and a fuel (for low stall ones). Also, if anyone orders one (or from another company) make sure you order it from Jegs, Summit, or similar place as you can get atleast 30 percent lower price that way.

 

[GTX_Joel]

Well, I already ordered the DTT 89% converter, direct thru DTT. BUt it was on back order so I suppose I could cancell. Could I get it cheaper thru Jegs or Summit?

 

[dan brooks]

Okay, the part number for the converter I used is 15XFM. List price is showing $430. 55 on my invoice, but like mentioned, you can likely get it less through a mail order vender like Summit. Or, check around for prices, then call Dale and see what he can do. Who knows... he may be able to beat it.

 

[MRickard]

You did allright then, as Hughes' website lists it at $590. 40, summit is $419. 39. Jegs, which is usually cheaper than summit (you just tell summit that and they match the price) does not seem to list anything from Hughes.



I will look into it as 420 is not as bad as a lot of TC's, and mine REALLY needs one as it gains atleast 300RPM on a good grade (to keep speed the same). I would like stall atleast 1400, not 1800+ (1800 only is for about 400-450 torque, not 600's)



Thanks for your findings

 

[MRickard]

Originally posted by GTX_Joel

Well, I already ordered the DTT 89% converter, direct thru DTT. BUt it was on back order so I suppose I could cancell. Could I get it cheaper thru Jegs or Summit?

I do not know who all they use as distributors and such. Jegs/Summit/Paw etc all are just starting to get into diesel stuff as people realizing their benefits. Wouldn't hurt to make a few calls.

DTT 89% converter

BTW, what is the `%' - all I see is 518-89 and 518-91, no `%' anywhere (?) Did you get the 518-89? I see a lot of these. 89 percent of <i>what</i>?

 

[dan brooks]

Originally posted by MRickard

You did allright then, as Hughes' website lists it at $590. 40... .

Actually, I did even better - a friend owns a transmission shop and I was able to get everything at his cost. I have less in the complete rebuild, including the converter and shift kit, than a DTT converter costs.



Good luck - I don't think you can go wrong with any of the converters specifically designed for the CTD. I know I'm happy with my decision.