93 auto conversion to lockout?

[mblair]

I am about to go through transmission. a few questions. .



Can I convert present non-lockup 93' torque converter/auto trans to a lock-up torque converter?



If so, what needs to be done? (Get lockup converter and wire in?Replace whole transmission, etc?)



What are pros/cons... . costs, performance, etc...



Any thoughts..... ?



(My 93 w250 auto is basically stock. I don't have anything extra really heavy to tow or haul. Just curious of how it might affect mileage/handling/reliability. Current trans is original that hasn't been overhauled, but was methodically serviced every year and was used to pull fifth wheeler by previous owner. )



Thanks for reading post and any replies you may have.



Max

 

[BushWakr - RIP]

mblair,



You know, that's a good question. I would guess that you need to change out the TC/Trans.

It would be fairly costly, even going to a stock OEM sytem.



I don't know if you would be better off doing that, or, using a very efficient TC/VB/Trans based on the A518. I'm very happy with my setup that is as described above, and based on the A518 with all new internals, but that was my preference.



I'm not going to plug any one name, but suggest you call around and talk to the top 3 or 4 and see what they suggest, and why.



There is more electronics needed for lock-up I would think, plus alot of other mods, but I'm NOT a specialist.



Make some calls, most are toll free.



Bob.

 

[mblair]

Thanks

What you are saying makes sense. I'll look at that. What difference can you tell in your torque converter and stock one you had, and which valve body do you have?

Thanks much for taking time to reply. I appreciate it.

Max

 

[phoekema]

lockup retrofit

Assuming you can find a lockup converter that will work on that model year (try ATS DTT Goerend Suncoast) it shouldn't be a big deal mechanically. Short of a great deal of electronics changing, since the new transmission is controlled by a on-board computer, you could possibly just install a manual switch and use it when ever you wanted lockup - a bit of an inconvenience, but cheaper than completely revamping the electronics. My last truck was a '93 and the stock converter was a lot 'tighter' (lower stall speed) than came stock in my '98, but lockup is still better for rolling down the road and keeping transmission temps down. Because the stock converter was so loose, I upgraded to the ATS triple lock and love it; however the after-market providers I mentioned above and others too are also good alternatives.

Believe me, you won't believe what a difference a good after-market converter will make on your truck!

 

[BushWakr - RIP]

mblair,



I don't really know were to begin in comparing the stock/DTT systems, in fact I don't think you can.



I originally had the 91% TC, Towing VB/firm shift, and full trans job.

At my HP (225) I found the 91% convertor very tight off the start, and up until about 40-45 MPH, say, until 1550 RPM it would hold down the engine a fair bit. Once I got some RPM's 1550+ it was hell on wheels.

I knew that if I dropped a fully loaded camper + heavy utility trailer on it and put the truck in some soft soil I'd have problems getting rolling... so... .

Bill change out the TC and put in an 89%. Much nicer for my application. I do see a difference in that I can spool up a bit quicker now and get rolling. Its not quite as peppy at freeway speeds but thats ok, since it does a great job as it is.



I saw about 1 1/2 MPG improvement, I gained about 15 MPH with the same RPM in OD, I have a much firmer, more positive shift and no throttle flair when I decide to push it no matter what gear I'm in.

Both TC's gave me slightly higher boost numbers, around 1 - 1 1/2 psi since it loads the engine more, and a slight increase in EGT's for the same reason.

Trans temps rarely make the gauge move off the 140*F mark. Heat gun readings show temps (just after getting off freeway) of around 135-138*F running empty at around 70 -75 MPH



If I was inclined to pick up another, ohhh say,... 50 HP I'd go with the 91% TC, Towing VB/firm shift, and the same transmission rebuild with no hesitation.



Nascar Mark was running around 271 HP in his 1st Gen and he is happy with his 91% system.

He is currently up around 300 HP now so it's not an issue for him.



Since the 1st Gens don't have/use lock-up but rather full fluid coupling I am extremely happy with my setup.

In fact, it took a near new DMax until nearly 70 MPH to catch/pass me. He snagged me just after I got into OD (too early I might add)



I know it sounds like a commercial but in all honesty there is NO comparison between the original system and this.

I can (with 5psi powerbrake) do a WOT launch and still be tearing rubber off well into OD.

Not bad for a daily driver, ole 1st Gen.



bob.