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RV-Dreams.com Home -> RV-Dreams Community Forum -> Tow Vehicles -> torque converter
Post Info TOPIC: torque converter
makntracks


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Ok, first of all, I know you guys are probably wondering why I don't post these questions to some kind of Diesel Truck forum instead of here.  The answer is those guys are trying to race and sport up their trucks and I'm trying to get the most pulling power for towing a load out of mine.  I figure you guys here have the most experience with that  :)

With that said, my question is...

 How many of you have changed out your diesel trucks torque converter for an aftermarket?  I know the factory torque converter usually doesn't kick in til around 2000 rpm and the peak torque for our trucks are listed under that, like around 1500-1800 rpm, depending on the make.  High rotating speeds equals higher trans fluid temps which means shorter tranny life.  In theory seem logical to go with aftermarket.  Just curious if anyone has done this and noticed a difference? 



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Terry and Jo


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As I am not a mechanic, I can't really speak to the issue of an aftermarket torque converter.  However, if heat in the transmission was a real problem, wouldn't the engineers at the truck makers not take that into account with their initial design?

I've never been one to "modify" any of my vehicles.  I don't believe in "chipping" engines or adding other aftermarket items as the effects of those modifications may (I repeat, MAY) be damaging to some element that is part of the original design.

When I went looking for a truck, I was looking for something that would safely pull a very heavy fifth wheel.  I found it in a Ford F450 with a 4:88 rear end.  That truck's entire purpose in my life is to tow a coach weighing 18,500 lbs.  I don't even consider worrying about its fuel mileage, so I have no plans of trying to "alter" it in any way.

Terry



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53 Merc


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Since your sig line says you have one of the best towing rigs out there, given duramax and Allison, why are you concerned? The Allison is what all the rest are judged against, or modeled after. If you are really concerned, perhaps an aftermarket transmission cooler would be beneficial, but there are a lot of them out there without additional help. If you really want to help your rig, look at adding a pacbrake (exhaust brake), it will reduce transmission loading during deceleration.

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makntracks


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Yeah, I'm already going to put the exhaust brake on. I guess I shoulda mentioned that. I'm not currently having any problems with my truck. Just thinking if I got a heavier trailer maybe I should do some safeguards on wear and tear.

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Racerguy


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Converter change wouldn't make a big difference for the cost in my opinion.Like Ken mentioned make sure you have a good transmission cooler and a tranny temp gauge and let it be.

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Bill and Linda


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As Ken, 53Merc said, you have the best transmission available in your truck – as it is - stock.  It’s an Allison.  Yes, there are some after-market products for the guys who race; but you don’t.  The Allison / Duramax is matched and it works.  Even if you get something heavier it will do just fine.  Trust me, there is no need to modify the transmission.  Bad idea.You will far exceed the rear and front axle ratings of the truck a long time before you will overload the Allison according to its ratings.

 

As far as safeguards go, I do recommend changing the transmission fluid at the “heavy duty” recommendation as listed in the manual.  I’ve never seen the fluid look burned, but I do mine at the 50% point - “heavy duty – trailer towing use" - as GM recommends.  Never one problem in 6 years and that’s with a lot of mountain towing in the lower 48, Alaska and Canada.

 

FWIW, my stock Duramax / Allison never had one issue, or any repairs, nor did it over heat and that’s with a much heavier trailer like you say may be in your future.  And all its life it's just towed.

 

Bill



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Alie and Jims Carrilite


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If you need piece of mind and want more cooling ability, a 30000gvwr aftermarket cooler can be installed in front of your radiators and intercooler. Summit racing, Jegs, all sell these. Most transmission shops can install these easily as well.

But as the others have said, the Allison/Duramax setup is pretty stout as it is.
If it was a Dodge tranny, then there are upgrades recommended.


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makntracks


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Thanks for the replies. My truck already has a transmission cooler on it, not sure if it's factory or aftermarket but I found it after I bought it. 

It's good to hear from the guys using their trucks everyday and not having any issues. I was considering a deeper transmission pan but maybe I'll just wait on that too and see how it goes.  I like to fix up my trucks like my four wheelers.  I don't like programmers but there's nothing wrong in my opinion with intake/exhaust mods.  Anything that helps the truck "breathe" better.  Especially in higher alts. 

Thanks again for all the replies.  Good conversation!  I love talking trucks. smile



-- Edited by makntracks on Friday 6th of July 2012 07:01:13 AM

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