No easy answer here. So many variables when it comes to converters and combo's.
To make it simple...here ya go.
Two types of converters. Lock-up and non lock. The lock-ups that stall in the 3k range like your looking at are based on very similiar cores from the start. So, these from basically any supplier will behave pretty similiar from a spool-up and efficiency standpoint. Some may use different clutch linings, some may use slightly different fin angles or stator designs to achieve the desired stall rpm but there's only so much you can do.
Then you have the multi-disk. It will behave identical to the single disk but can withstand WOT locks.
Then you have the standard non lock converter. Majority of them are nothing more than the lock-up converter minus the lock-up clutch. Performance will be the same as running a lock-up converter unlocked.
The two most popular non locks that are not built from the same core as the lock-ups are the Art Carr 9" and my 9.5". Mine will spool faster and couple better than the lock-up based converter.
I try to get away from the 10" core or as some call the 9.5 in the 11.50 range but they work ok into the 11.00 range. Anything in the 10's I prefer the non lock due to it's quicker spool-up and better efficiency.
As far as picking a converter for the combo. RPM range and turbo size are the largest factors in choosing a Buick converter. If the engine is shifted at to low of an rpm range and/or the turbo is too large for the et goal, no converter will fix the combo.
What also so make one better then the other when it comes to someone combo?
