Non lockup vs lockup

[Tristansgn]

I have heard from many that a non lockup converter is better for "racing." I have a nl "O" stall from art Carr, I'm happy with the stall for my combo etc. my question is why do some prefer the non lockup? What are the differences it makes for street and for track? I've heard "it's your converter, switch it back to lockup, that's your problem." from a couple friends. I'm not going to change it, I'm just wondering what the clear definition is. Thanks.

 

[Grumpy]

Do a search !!!! This has been beatin to death a gazillion times

 

[jasjamz]

I agree with Grumpy but a quick answer is this . The lock up converter will be more beneficial on the highway. It pulls the RPM down more in overdrive. It then keeps the converter from building so much heat. However many lock up converters can not be locked up while racing/WOT because it will kill the lock up clutches. The ones that can be cost as much as a good non lock converter. You also have more adjustability in the non lock. At a certain point companies just refuse to do certain things. After so many WOT locked runs it will need a rebuild where as the non lock won't. Non locks can fail too but they tend to last much longer under racing Conditions/ than a lock up. So see where your car falls in terms of. Useage and power and then you will be able to pick the right one.

 

[Dusty Bradford]

It's just personal preference. Some don't like the way the non lock feels in certain driving conditions and want to keep lock-up. I personally prefer the non lock because I feel the benefits of the non lock out weigh anything lock-up has to offer. Since your happy, don't change a thing.

 

[Tristansgn]

Thanks for the input! I'm sure it's been beat to death, but there may be some people that click just to read this that can learn from it too looking for a good short and sweet answer, so thanks for those that replied

 

[hemi8]

Wouldn't it also be safe to say that when you are making some decent power, over 500rwhp, that there is quite a shock to the input shaft when the converter is locked? That shock can be eliminated with the NL, lowering the chance of snapping the shaft. With the great fin design of NL converters like the ones Dusty specs out it removes top-end slip associated with a LU converter that is left unlocked. A big thermostatically conrtolled trans cooler takes care of any heat issues with the NL.
Mike