Opinions on Re-stalled stock converters?

[NickSJ]

Some time back, I bought a used, a re-stalled D5 (2800 stall) because my tranny needs to eventually come out anyway. But now I hear some opinions that re-stalled stockers are not the way to go...

One reason given was that the D5 is too heavy to have so much slip. Presumably that means that higher stall works only if converter diameter is smaller to match.

Another reason given was that my new TE44 will work just perfect with stock stall speed. And so far, I have noticed that it spools a little slower than stocker, but basically seems OK.

But some others will say that TE44 really won't be right without 2800-3000 stall.

Good news is, I didn't pay too much for the used re-stalled D5, so I won't feel too bad if I have to eat it.

Looking for opinions, especially on why re-stalling a D5 is, or is not a bad idea.

Thanks!

 

[Nick Micale]

I am not an expert on torque converters but you asked for opinions, and will put out mine based upon what little I have learned.

The stock D-5 converter is what is used to "make" the 12 inch lock up converters which are usually 2800 or 3000 stall. Changing the fin angle is the basic operation to do this.

However, if the converter is going to be subject to lots of hard usage, there are many other items that need to be done inside as well to provide long life and proper performance.

This is the reason why the price of a 12" converter with higher stall varies a lot. You get what you pay for - at least hopefully?

The performance 2800-3000 stall converter is in the $300+ price range for a quality built one. In all the years I have done them, only had one that went bad and was covered under wattanty.

If a stall higher than 3000 RPM is wanted, then a smaller converter is used.

As to your stock converter working "perfectly" with your TE-44, check out a current thread on that subject here in the Tech forum.

 

[JToups386]

A 10" or 9" is certainly the way to go, if money is not a factor, and you plan on running hard.

However, there are some decent 12"ers out there that will suffice into the 11's on a moderately modded car. For example, I currently have a TCI "Street Fighter" 12" 3000 stall, that I've cut numerous 12psi launches with 1.58 to 1.62 60' times, and it has held up fine. The standard cost for it through Jeg's, or Summit is $349.
There are plenty of Buick specialist vendors that offer a similar product as well, and I would recommend looking into them if you're going to stay with a 12" (D5 core) converter. They're on the sponsoring vendor list on this board.

If you can afford it though, I'd look into these same vendors that offer billet 9" or 10" high stalls, which will allow for even harder launches and incredible torque multiplication.