newbie ? but whats a torque converter

[FriedRice]

i heard people using torque converters on auto's to make it "better" ive just started to get into cars the last few months....so pardon me if i dunno...... any replies aprecieated:confused:

[vvtlikick]

All automatic transmissions have torque converters. Just like all manual transmission cars have clutches.

It's the part that controls the connection of the engine to the gearbox. It can slip completely to allow you to sit in gear at a stop sign, or it can lockup completely, when you're cruising down the freeway.

You can modify a torque converter for performance/racing use. I think the main benefit is it can allow you to launch at higher rpm, like a manual.

[KevinO]

http://www.levelten.com/

You can purchase upgraded torque converters here or, send them your and they can update and adjust your stall speed.
Hope this helps.

[FriedRice]

thanks everyone..so basically...lets u launch at higher rpms, like a manual.. can it hang with manuals of lower hp that normall would wup my buttox? for instance.... a manual civic (127-ish hp) could most likely beat my auto gt....and if i got one of these level ten things, then could i basically keep up or beat (heaven forbid) the civic? i dont wanna sound like a pompous AUTO GT foo, but just wondering :D thanks again

[Oo DaRk StAr oO]

POWER LAUNCH!!!!

Ur tranny wont last long but ull get a good launch. Oh yeah, Turbo. save some money. good torque converter could b elike 1500 bucks. Save 1000 more and you'll have a 250hp auto Celica.

Nice.

Matt

[MarkyMark]

Originally posted by Oo DaRk StAr oO
Oh yeah, Turbo. save some money. good torque converter could b elike 1500 bucks. Save 1000 more and you'll have a 250hp auto Celica.

hell yes...just get the manual conversion first :) it's only, what...$4500 :D