retrotec? Automatic Paddle shifter....??

[Fuelie Fan]

Just read this...basically correct I'd say. The retrotek is doing exactly what you would do if you shifted your automatic manually. So, that should give you an idea of what the shifts would feel like. If you've done it, you know that the biggest problem is the impredictability of that method. At wide open throttle, for example, you may click up from 2-3 at 3500 rpm, but most likely the shift won't occur because your valve body is calibrated to shift at 5500rpm at wot.

Going along with that, I see what Steve is trying to say, and maybe I'm nitpicking, but to me he is confusing delay with calibration. "Electronic" transmissions, especially the 4l60e, are not truly 100% computer controlled. When looking at the schematics, it didn't take too long for me to realize that 4l60e's are fairly obviously *******ized electro-mechanical devices. They feature a dazzling array of springs, weights, and accumulators, just like 700s. This is why you can still buy shift kits for them.

Those mechanical devices are not creating "delay", or more accurately they're not creating any more delay in the 700 than in the 4l60. The difference is, with the 4l60, part of the calibration is in electronics and part is mechanical, so it's a lot easier to get shifts to occur when and how you want them to. With the 700 (or other non-automatics), the calibration is 100% mechanical. All you (or the retrotek unit) are doing is putting in a request for a shift, but the trans won't deliver until its ready to. This is where the situation I described above comes in: you request a shift, but it doesn't happen.

THat being said, electronic transmission are obviously superior. But, it's also the more expensive solution. If you enjoy shifting your auto manually from time to time but will probably spend most of your time in drive, OR if you have a full manual valve body, and you also want the look and convenience of paddle shifting, the retrotek may be for you. If you want a lot more control over when shifts occur, then Twist Machine should be in your future.