Need advise on torque conv lockup

[2aces]

This is my first post, anyway my trans failed at 23k miles and Dodge did the warranty work at NC. Since then have installed a US Gear D-Celerator exh brake. Would like to hear from anyone who knows of a kit to keep the torque conv locked up. US Gear did not recommend doing this. Help



Thanks to all who responded. All I really want to do is to have a truck that is reliable. A truck with a million mile engine and a ppoor trans does not make any sense. They should hire new engineers at Dodge who know how to put a truck together. Anyway the only time I will be using my exh brake is when I'm pulling my 13K 5th wheel and need to stop the darn thing. I'll give the guys at ATS and DTT a call

 

[SEmerson]

The cheapest way is to just add a mystrery switch. But the best way is to put in a controller for it. DTT makes a smart controler. And I think AST makes one too. I know with the DTT it will down shift with the brake on and converter locked. Not sure about the others.

 

[jwilliams3]

2aces,

If you are going to be running that exhaust brake with a stock trans you will be hurting it in short order (in my opinion).



I will suggest that you do get a lockup controller that works in conjunction with your exhaust brake.

ATS www.atsdiesel.com manufacturers one that is excellent for locking the converter.



But, I do suggest installing a torque converter that will hold that load and power, also a Valve body (to help with shifts and line pressure). Since your transmission is new you wont need a rebuild.



--Justin

 

[rrausch]

I agree. An exhaust brake can certainly damage a stock trans in short order. I had the complete ATS rebuild, but I had 107,000 miles on my 2500, most of it bombed, and a lot of it towing a heavy 5-er. If you get the TripleLok T. C. and Valve Body, and controller---that will vastly prolong the life of your trans, and make the truck a WHOLE LOT MORE FUN to drive!



Clint's number at ATS is 800-949-6002 They are great guys there. It is a family owned operation, and they stand behind everything they do 100%.

 

[98rammer]

at least up the line pressures in the stock transmission... it'll last longer. TST's site should have the info on how to do the lock up clutch switch, or just order their catalog.



Tom

 

[Extreme1]

Unfortunately, by installing the exhaust brake, you no longer have a transmission warrantee (unless you are related to your dealer). Take the advise above and modify the trans to work with the brake or you'll be rebuilding again if you start locking it up. Of course, it doesn't do much if you don't lock it up...

 

[Joe G.]

2aces, you can probably get away with using a manual lockup switch (mystery switch) for quite a while IF you only use it for the exhaust brake. No shifting, hard excelleration, or heavy pulling with it manually locked. Down hill or slowing only.