Transmission controller

[Kvic]

Just starting my research on a built transmission. Questions is if I buy a Goerend transmission and converter, will an ATS Co-pilot work? I also want to get an exhaust brake.

 

[WCPoe]

Call ATS to be sure

Kvic - My guess is that it would work. It's been a while but I believe on my installation other than the power and ground wires the Copilot gets a speed signal from a wire that you tap at the ECM and another wire taps to a wire going into the side of the trans that controls the converter lock-up solenoid.

I believe I would give ATS a call to be sure. I do remember the instructions specified a slightly different wiring connection if you run a stock transmission because of the lockup in O/D is hard on a stock trans, (same reason DC never got around to putting an exhaust brake on the earlier 3rd gens.

 

[Kvic]

Thanks, when I get closer to pulling the trigger, I will call ATS, or who ever makes the controller I am looking at.

 

[THogsed]

WCPoe ,I have the five star converter , Ats VB & co pilot, The lockup in OD is very hard what can i do about it. does the ats commander work better than the co-pilot?

 

[WCPoe]

Softer lockup

THogsed - Sorry for the delay, been away from the computer lately. Yes, the lockup is somewhat harsh. I've become somewhat accustomed to the shift and lockup pattern and usually let up a little on the pedal just before the lockup occurs which really softens the event. If you're heavy on the pedal the engine speed is a good bit higher than the trans input which gives the abrupt lockup. Easing off the pedal lets the RPM difference be less and therefore a softer lockup event. Also setting the lockup higher seems to help

if your just driving around in traffic, (or letting the wife or girlfriend drive). Unless you're racing or trying to impress your friends I recommend just turning the Commander off and let the factory PCM do the lockup, (usually near 50 mph or near abouts). Being able to just turn it off and on I think is a great feature in my opinion.

I have my Commander set about 38 mph which on my setup is the third blue LED. This can make for a fairly harsh lockup or OD shift event if you're on the pedal. Try the highest mph setting or just turn it off and see how you like it.

I love my ATS trans/converter/Commander set-up. It lets me go to an early lockup and somewhat "lug" the Cummins for a great sound from the MBRP exhaust. I did find out that if you set the lockup RPM too low the engine will shutter as you slow down until it drops down a gear. This usually happens when I have set it lower for acceleration performance. (Second gear lockup with the SPS66 at about 50 psi is fun. )

Just experiment a little. I think you'll find a nice balance. Hope this helps.

Bill :-laf

 

[DWest]

Yes it works

Kvic: I have a full built Goerand trans. and an exhaust brake and it works great. The installation is a bit tedious but not overly hard. I had issues with lockup and after many calls to ATS I had to disconnect the apps wire and the map sensor wire. Only time it doesn't work is winter when the trans. has to warm up first, once that happens it's just fine. DW