Auto for Autocross/Track Days

[CA B4C]

I've autocrossed a third gen Camaro with a 700R4 for several years. I've found that a lighter torque converter will really make a difference. A lighter converter (higher stall speed) will also build more torque for better acceleration out of the tighter corners. Most of the autocrosses I've run were limited to about 60 mph. I put it second and left it alone. In an open tracking setting the only difference I found was down shifting later in the corner, just prior to throttle applicaiton, seemed to work best. Based on what you are trying to do, I think you'll be happy with an automatic.



For what is worth, I wouldn't get a paddle shifter or anything trick like that. Find a B&M rachet shifter you like and you'll be fine.

[rrunner68]

For what is worth, I wouldn't get a paddle shifter or anything trick like that. Find a B&M rachet shifter you like and you'll be fine.

I've melted a few of those shifter cables. Stuff gets hot if you are hot-lapping the car.

[SLO_Z28]

I've autocrossed a third gen Camaro with a 700R4 for several years. I've found that a lighter torque converter will really make a difference. A lighter converter (higher stall speed) will also build more torque for better acceleration out of the tighter corners. Most of the autocrosses I've run were limited to about 60 mph. I put it second and left it alone. In an open tracking setting the only difference I found was down shifting later in the corner, just prior to throttle applicaiton, seemed to work best. Based on what you are trying to do, I think you'll be happy with an automatic.

For what is worth, I wouldn't get a paddle shifter or anything trick like that. Find a B&M rachet shifter you like and you'll be fine.

^Dead on. Ive been very happy with an automatic for high performance use, and wouldn't even consider anything else for race use.

I've melted a few of those shifter cables. Stuff gets hot if you are hot-lapping the car.

Youre doing something wrong if thats happening!



On topic, the TCI 6x has an incredibly weak set up for all the high gears. The transmission shop that did my transmission has a 2005 mustang with a LSX454 and TCI6x, hes on his third one in as many events, keeps killing that split 6th gear because its so small.

[rrunner68]

Youre doing something wrong if thats happening!

Not really. The cables have a poor construction, and when they get hot enough with constant shifting, the outer bit gets soft, allowing the inner bands to expand and shift, then the inner cable has enough wiggle room to escape. Pretty common.
Mechanical linkage is preferred.

[Chadly B]

I've autocrossed a third gen Camaro with a 700R4 for several years. I've found that a lighter torque converter will really make a difference. A lighter converter (higher stall speed) will also build more torque for better acceleration out of the tighter corners. Most of the autocrosses I've run were limited to about 60 mph. I put it second and left it alone. In an open tracking setting the only difference I found was down shifting later in the corner, just prior to throttle applicaiton, seemed to work best. Based on what you are trying to do, I think you'll be happy with an automatic.

For what is worth, I wouldn't get a paddle shifter or anything trick like that. Find a B&M rachet shifter you like and you'll be fine.

So, approximately what size stall speed? I'm having a manual valve body TH350 built and would love to be able to autocross a V8 s10 with this tranny.....I was thinking in the 2500-3000 rpm range......

[CA B4C]

The converter I have stalls around 2200 rpm. I'm running a TPI with a soft cam, therefore not a very aggressive stall speed. The reduced weight of the smaller converter was the point I was trying to make. Like going from a steel flywheel to an aluminum flywheel. I think your estimate is in the right range. Your tranny builder can probably give you some good suggestions based on your engine combo, vehicle weight, and rear axle ratio. Best of luck with your project.