Torque Converter Selection | How to Choose the Correct Torque Converter

What does a torque converter do? A torque converter is a fluid coupling device that transfers power from engine to transmission and multiply the torque being created by the engine.
There are three major components that make up a torque converter.
The Fluid Impeller is the only part of the torque converter that is physically attached to the engine. The impeller creates fluid motion within the converter to create a transfer of power. The Stator redirects fluid flow towards the impeller. The Turbine Assembly transfers the motion between the engine and the transmission. Another important aspect to understand is Stall Speed = RPM when the engine sends all available power to the transmission.
Torque converters have 2 different types of stalls that they can produce. The 1st type is Foot Brake Stall. Foot break Stall is an inaccurate way to measure torque converter stall.
Flash stall is the actual stall of the torque converter. Flash stall is always listed in range which is determined by different attributes such vehicle weight, gear ratio and tire size. The flash stall rating is the only true and most accurate stall rating that you will find on a torque converter.
A few rules of thumb to take from this video are: First select a converter that stalls at 500 RPM higher than the camshaft. Converters installed in a big block engine usually stall 300 RPM higher than a small block. Choose a converter that will stall below the highway cruise RPM. For additional information and to check out Summit Racing's selection of Torque Converters, click here:www.summitracing.com/redirect?...

[@ozzy5368]

Would have been good to note that a lockup converter won't have the issue of stalling higher than cruise RPM. Also, would like you to address what typical factory stall ratings are....maybe provide the stall figures for common vehicles to help us understand the impact of changing stall speeds for those vehicles.

[@ekitching]

Great video, I think this guy knows his stuff, the torque converter is a very complicated part, as is the automatic transmission...Ed

[@justincrasi4638]

hands down the best explanation i've heard yet. it finally clicked with this video

[@MrCbell57]

Great job explaining that. Glad you stated about the range and all the variables. That does make more sense. And I like the part about stalling at 500 rpm higher than camshaft . Also the part about choosing a converter that will stall below highway cruise rpm. Did not know that one.

[@85ryankelly]

I like the screwdriver in the engine stand.

[@SummitRacing]

:)

[@fiolds350]

Whatevers clever

[@PostalPatriot556]

You'd love to watch me work on my truck 😂 you would not believe where I can put tools for safe keeping lol

[@jjmccloud]

There's another way to do it??? Lmao

[@hectorortega9131]

Ryan Kelly, Exactly! Lol..

[@SummitRacing]

In the interest of making the car more streetable, you should consider changing the camshaft first. Then, match the rear end gear and a new torque converter to the new cam. Thanks for watching! Please let us know if you have any additional questions.

[@Faolan161]

Are you telling the oil what to do in the torque converter? There are way too many "go ahead" phrases for a descriptive vid ...

[@ritafurtado9678]

​@@Faolan161🎉

[@SummitRacing]

Thanks for watching!

[@SummitRacing]

Hey, thanks for the suggestion. We will get the lock up torque converter video done. We should post it some time next week!

[@imamakeit5163]

Whats a good tourque converter for rx8 with sport mode.

[@JonFFavale]

By the way I bought a transgo shift kit from you guys to put in when I do the build. You guys have excellent service!

[@JasonBolte]

Great informative video. Thanks for sharing!

[@SummitRacing]

After looking at your combination, I suggest going with a converter that stalls around 3,000 rpm. We hope this helps! Please let us know if you have any additional questions.

[@drm9979]

this is a very helpful video. just learning about these and want to make right choice. thank you.

[@husamabdulzahra4375]

Thank you summit for this awesome video.

[@SummitRacing]

A converter with a stall around 2,400 - 2,600 rpm would be the best choice for your combination. We suggest going with a Hughes HUP-22-25L converter which matches your combination very well. Thanks for watching! Please let us know if you have any additional questions :)

[@SummitRacing]

Hi Dave, Can you give our tech department a call? 1-330-630-0240. This question will involve several questions and answers. We look forward to your call! Thank you for watching.

[@SummitRacing]

No problem! Let us know if you have any additional questions. Good luck!

[@MCRmechanic]

I like the screwdriver in the engine stand peg hole keeping that chevy small block from flipping over. Good car guy stuff there.

[@StonnieDennis]

Thanks!

[@bcababcb2074]

I learned something new! YAY!

[@davidhayes3223]

Great Info. Thanks for posting

[@SummitRacing]

I like the sounds of a stroker LT1. Be sure to employ all of the essentials involved in building the 383 stroker. Be careful once you start getting past the 500 HP level with the factory block. I’m not saying that it can’t be done because it can - I’m just saying have all of your ducks in a row and be careful. Good luck and thanks for watching. Please let us know if you have any additional questions!

[@SummitRacing]

Looking at the combination you will be putting together, your vehicle will require a minimum of a 2,500 stall converter to perform well. I suggest going with a Hughes converter part # HUP-24-25 ($249.95) for the best performance. Please let us know if you have any additional questions. Thanks for watching!

[@all-things-tactical5121]

Thank you for the awesome advice and great videos!

[@jaxxbrat2634]

ALL-THINGS-TACTICAL pun intended.

[@careks]

Very good information since I'm about to buy a new converter... :-)

[@SummitRacing]

A torque converter with a stall of around 2,500 rpm would be the best choice for your combination. Assuming that your truck has either a 4L60E or 4L80E transmission, I suggest go with a HUP-22-25EL ($419.95) for the 4L60E or a HUP-22-25L ($569.95) if it has a 4L80E transmission. Please let us know if you have any additional questions :)

[@HaltomAutoworks]

This is great information, I found my self LOL half way thru the video everytime he said "go ahead"

[@SummitRacing]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnsottile6214]

What great info!!!😎🏁👍

[@mydarlingmiranda8883]

This guy knows what he's talking about. Trust me. I've learned from trial and error. Blew my stator in a foot brake stall left me using my gears manually in a automatic transmission. Had a bad sprag and/or one way clutch.

[@SummitRacing]

A torque converter with roughly a 2,500 rpm stall rating would be the right choice for your combination. I suggest you go with a Hughes Performance torque converter part # HUP-22-25EL ($419.95). Thanks for watching and let us know if you have any additional questions.

[@SummitRacing]

Perfect timing! Thank you for your feedback and your business!

[@SummitRacing]

You will want to go with a converter that stalls around 2,000 rpm. I suggest go with with one of our Summit converters part # SUM-G2704-12 ($229.95) for the best performance. Thanks for watching and please let us know if you have any additional questions.

[@texashankpalmer876]

Thanks for the info! Someone give me a dollar for everytime he says "which is gonna go ahead and.."

[@SummitRacing]

We have a few additional questions that we would like to ask you. This is a bit of a complex topic that would be better to discuss with our tech line. Please give our tech line a call at 1-330-630-0240 so we can give you the best suggestion. Thank you for watching and we hope to hear from you soon!

[@SummitRacing]

The “Impeller pump” is a welded part of the Torque Converter outer case or Dome as your refer to it. The Stator splines onto the larger shaft on the front of the transmission an sits between the Impeller and Turbine. The Turbine is splined onto the actual input shaft of the transmission and turns the inner workings of the transmission.

[@randoblack8871]

Thanks Summit for the help. I knew the gear ratio was not high enough but with a 3 speed and no OD, I wasn't sure if I would just be constructing a gas hog. I plan on going to a different tranny, then the rear end will be upgraded. My F150 has a 3.73, so I know what a difference it makes. Thanks again.

[@daniels1532]

Thanks Mike!

[@SummitRacing]

Our tech department has a few questions for you before a suggestion can be made. Would you mind giving our tech department a call? 1-330-630-0240. Thank you for watching!

[@SummitRacing]

Hi Angel, Can you give our tech department a call? 1-330-630-0240. We have several questions for you. Thanks for watching!

[@SummitRacing]

Hi Rando, You have two obstacles to overcome. The lower numeric gear ration and stock converter. Increasing the stall is necessary, but without increasing the rear gear ratio you will not get the full benefit of the converter change. We’d recommend a TCI Breakaway series converter . It will give you about 1,000 more rpms stall speed than stack. Changing the rear gear to a 3.73:1 ratio will help maximize your overall performance.

[@SummitRacing]

This question would be better answered by our tech department. Can you give the tech line a call at 1-330-630-0240? Thanks for watching!

[@SummitRacing]

While we are at it do you know the weight of your Fairmont? Has it been lightened? Is this a street only, dual purpose or entry level race only vehicle? Let me know, I would like to help

[@austinbrothers2237]

Thanks. This video was very helpful.

[@SummitRacing]

Thank you for watching!

[@SummitRacing]

We just posted the Lock-Up Torque Converter video. Please check it out and tell us what you think. Thanks again for the suggestion!

[@ssgsoja0]

Nice video. Thank you.

[@SummitRacing]

Thank you for watching, Keith!

[@SummitRacing]

A torque converter with a stall between 2,300 - 2,500 rpm would be the right choice for your Trans Am. If your vehicle still has the stock transmission (4L60E) in it, Hughes makes a converter that matches up very well. The part number for this torque converter is HUP-22-25L ($369.95).

[@oscarutrera9829]

Good information

[@keithslade1493]

Thanks to you I was able to pick proper cams , torque converter wheel and tire size without guessing but at highway speed how much rpm above stall seed should you be a lot or a little or somewhere in the middle I used jegs calculator and came up with two gear options 4.11 which is about 300 rpm above stall(start) with my planed setup or 4.56 gears that are about 600 rpm above I also read your comments and I realized I'll need to upgrade my transmission cooler

[@slevinkalevera1260]

Thank you sir. Very useful

[@SummitRacing]

Thank you for watching!

[@SummitRacing]

What is the transmission - C4, AOD, AODE? How aggressive do you want to be - how much efficiency are you willing to give up? Your gear choice sort of indicates where you are headed, but we do not want to read between the lines. Let us know, we would like to help.

[@Mr2013GT]

Much appreciated

[@SummitRacing]

A converter with a slightly higher than stock stall would be the right choice for your application. I suggest you go with a Summit brand converter part number SUM-G2704-12 ($229.95) for the best performance increase.

[@SummitRacing]

For better acceleration with a stock engine, we would suggest a torque converter with an 1800-2000 rpm stall range. Anything higher than this will cause excessive heat in the transmission leading to potential premature failure.

[@D.Magic_]

thank you

[@fiolds350]

Good video

[@brkooduh66]

THANK YOU! omg, my cuda is nonstop overheat on the hwy even in cold with a new radiator. now I know why. 2.73 gears and 27" tires equals 2200rpm @ 65. NEVER gets above the 2400 stall converter (cam is rated for 2000). Time for a rear gear change!

[@jregamey]

So my echo has bigger the stock tires higher stall converter would be better This is great. This is amazing video

[@sojuli1]

Good afternoon, I have an edelbrock performer kit, for a 302, 81 of a bronco, they estimate 320 hp and 260 foot pounds of torque between 2000 and 4000 rpm (5500 rpm max). It has a 3-speed c6 box, standard differential and 33 wheels, I need to replace the torque converter, I appreciate your suggestion to choose the right one for these characteristics, the camshaft indicates, intake duration 204 degrees, exhaust duration 214 degrees, elevation intake .448", exhaust elevation .472", lobe separation 112 degrees, intake center line 107 degrees, vacuum 16", thank you very much and congratulations for the videos, they are of great help to incorporate knowledge.

[@SummitRacing]

A torque converter with roughly a 3,000 rpm stall rating likely would be the best choice for your combination. I suggest going with a part number HUP-GM30 ($329.95) converter.

[@falcorthewonderdog2758]

Most people make the mistake of changing the torque converter when they really need a different rear axle ratio.

[@SummitRacing]

A high stall convertor is used in drag racing because it allows the engine RPM to reach efficient RPM before launch. A drag race engine makes peak horsepower HP and torque TQ at two different RPM points. Most efficient start RPM or Stall Speed is to be 200-300 RPM over peak torque RPM. For instance dragster engine makes peak torque @ 5800 rpm, so I have a 6100 stall convertor.

[@SummitRacing]

A 2,000 rpm stall speed is all that will be necessary. Please give our tech line a call @ 1-330-630-0240 for the correct part # and price for the transmission you will be using.

[@randydaye548]

How can I tell when my torque Converter is bad and it's not the transmission?

[@SummitRacing]

C4, okay - thank you. Please consider the following: How aggressive do you want to be - how much efficiency are you willing to give up? Your gear choice sort of indicates where you are headed, but I do not want to read between the lines.And, what is your tire diameter in inches? I appreciate the P-metric information but please measure for me.

[@alvinomelgoza2887]

I couldn't help but notice 7:51 into the video his beard grew and his hair got messy he even started sweeting. He probably didn't like to put all of his knowledge on video now he can get fired and the video used as a training vid. Thanks for the video buddy.

[@CarminesRCTipsandTricks]

I clicked, assuming that it would be yet another watered down Corporate Info Show... While still not going into depth on any specifics, I found that very informative and interesting!! 👍👍 I'll need to keep looking, because I'm trying to find the right Converter for a mildly modified 4.2L V6 2001 Mustang. You mentioned that a Big Block will stall a little higher than a Small Block... But what about the minority with V6s - or FOURS?? Now I remember back in the day, 4cyl Mustangs had typically 10-10.5" Converters. They stalled at around 2100-2300 RPM. A Converter LIKE that (yes, the stock 2.3L unit would IMPLODE in a Big Block!!), are usually in the 3000-3600 RPM range. So.... It kinda makes it difficult to figure out the Math, to get a Converter for smaller Engines.

[@SummitRacing]

PoorMan, Choosing the correct torque converter for any application takes some knowledge, experience and in some cases, some luck! While internal parts can be manipulated ... and are; external forces are a huge consideration. Things such as the weight of the vehicle, gear ratio and tire size. These are the resistance factors if you will. A heavier car with a stock gear ratio and a taller tire has more resistance to movement and may cause a higher stall speed. Now, on the input side, "the engine", generally speaking the more power spinning the converter the higher the stall will be. We shouldn't categorize this as a big or small block thing. There are some very powerful small engines out there! What is more important to consider is where the power band is for your engine. If it is possible to identify that, generally speaking, choose your converter stall speed to be approximately 500-800 RPM after the motor starts making power. In a perfect world a dyno sheet would be key here but, not all have that advantage so, a look at the power band on the cam card may be helpful. As stated earlier, internal parts of a torque converter also play a role in stall speed. Things such as case size, fin count and fin angle all have an affect. These things are chosen mainly by each manufacturer because they are the "secret sauce" so to speak that sets each one apart from the other. Not to mention, those parts take a deeper understanding of converter construction that many don't possess and therefore only add confusion to the process. Now these are very general points but, very important to keep in mind when choosing your torque converter! There is much more to torque converter science and many good resources available abroad for the inquiring mind!

[@me2dumb4college]

This video helped a ton. What size do you recommend for the following specs: Auto 01 Mustang GT (supercharged and cammed) 4.10s I have comp cams stage II, with operating range 1800-5800 Tires are 315/35-17

[@SummitRacing]

The new camshaft will actually be the dictating factor in selecting the correct converter. Please supply the camshaft part number or specifications of the new cam so that we can make an accurate suggestion, hope to hear back from you soon!

[@johnniecrain7986]

I bought the Comp cam 07-503-8 for my 97 lt1 from summit now I'm looking into the stall converter. I've talked with a customer service rep. at summit on this but i was told its not the right one I need. I have an 87 year 700r4, 373 gears and run 275-60-15. What's best for my set up? Thanks

[@bobbybroussard5319]

Well go ahead...

[@geojor]

thanks for the above response, one more question... the notch in the front of the torque converter, does it lock into the actual gear of the transmission pump?...

[@JoeIsCrazyWillman]

So wonder if your brake and flash stall are at the same point? In my 96 Ram with 156K on the original trans, I can hold the brake (and use E-brake to prevent wheelspin) and hit about 2200rpm. When I punch it from a dead stop, I also flash to about 2200rpm on stock diameter tires and 4.10 gear, truck at ±4800lbs. Why would they be the same?

[@Pluvar]

So if I have 3:73 gears running 275/55/20 and camshaft 2500 -3000rpm powerband... I need a 298mm billet lockup converter and what stall should I get for my 4l60e

[@w41duvernay]

Summit, Im looking to build a LS 4.8 w a Crane Cam 224@ .050s .590 lift cam, putting it behind a built 700r4. Will a 2400 rpm converter be enough? I have 3.42 gearing in a 86 Firebird s/e.

[@gasolinedreams3086]

go ahead

[@noampitlik2332]

I was going to go ahead and and watch this video, but I had to go ahead and go. Later, I will go ahead watch it, if I don't go ahead with something else.

[@raymondmenendez6499]

I have a 1970 C10, it differently has a after market cam installed. the dealer that I got it from doesn't know what cam was put in before, my mechanic installed a fuel injector system because of the carburetor just wasn't cutting it, but I have great cruising speeds but terrible acceleration, it's time to upgrade the converter, wish me luck

[@SummitRacing]

I would have sworn that the factory motor was a 425. However if this is a factory piece then you have the THM425 transmission for the front wheel drive. If that is the case then please use the stock torque converter. Good luck.

[@erikvillarreal1986]

What converter would y’all recommend for a 2014 6.2 procharged silverado?

[@cklinejr]

go ahead.

[@hugojuarez9746]

I overhauled my engine in my 1997 silverado with stock parts and now my transmission stalls. But before the repair,I didnt have that issue.Like I would accelerate ant I would be gone!...zoom!! Could it be that my engine has gained more power due to the repairs that the torque converter now doesnt respond fast enough??

[@hotrodlincoln7186]

Quick question 🤔 do I need to adjust my to tq convert if I changed my tire and rim size? I went from a 17inch rim to a 20inch chrome rim. I don't notice a acceleration drop do to having a jms pedalmax that eliminate the drive wire delay. I have it set at 75%. I tried it at 100% once. And it was to touchy. 75% is the kinda sweet spot.

[@marquisegardner3589]

what would be best stall for 280 cam in a 355 with 28inch tires and 4.11 gears.

[@Izzy_Havoc]

Yes this is very good but what about lockup torque converters? They are becoming very popular. I hope to see a part 2 so they can be explained.

[@carledward1968]

I have a 1985 chevy caprice with a 350 gm goodwrench engine. It has a 268H comp cam witha 700r4 and 3:73 Gears. What Converter would you suggest that a get. Oh it had Header with Stock tires that are 205/15/70

[@SummitRacing]

Yes, there are 2 notches in the snout of the torque converter. When the converter is properly installed; those notches will engage the drive lugs in the pressure pump on the front of the transmission turning it at engine/flywheel speed.

[@Ken-nj1mb]

So couldn’t you run a higher stall than your cruising speed if you also install a torque converter lock up switch? I have a 77 Chevy k10 with an 1800-2000 or so stall and I would like to increase the stall for a better launch but it cruises at 1800 rpms at 60 mph. It also tries to die when put into gear but I’m running a comp cams Xtreme energy 268 cam. It starts making power around 15-1600 rpms

[@SummitRacing]

Hey! We would be happy to help, we just need a little more information about your engine/vehicle combination before we can suggest anything. Can you give us the following information: - Camshaft specs - Vehicle type - Rear gear ratio - How the vehicle mainly will be used

[@ryanpaasch7464]

I have a 1966 valiant with 360 small block around 400 ho and tq have .486 lift cam 279 intake duration 296 exhaust duration .473 exhaust lift 107 lobe separation 20-600-4 cam # it is used for street mostly track a few times 1/8 mile frame connectors auto 904 built gear ratio is 3.55 8.75 rear end compression is around 9.5 any help would be great

[@SummitRacing]

Assuming the car is street driven and the “Torque Converter Lock up” feature is still being used, we would recommend that you use a 2400-2600 stall speed for best results.

[@janiceparsons6475]

Watching in earnest. My big questions: Best rear gear and TQ stall/model with just a tune and CAI. Peak torque stock is 4250rpm. I've read two trains of thought: 1. Get a TC that stalls at or close to the peak. 2. Get a TC that stalls at 500-700 rpm below the peak. No racing(?), just street-highway. 2004 Mercury Marauder. Torque Peak stock at 4250 rpm. Stock stall rating: 2850 to 3011 rpm.

[@H00K-KING]

I’m interested in buying one of your brand converters. Do you guys have technicians that can help choose which torque converter will work for my setup?

[@MrBoo1963]

I want mine changed to a higher end torque because in the summer, the oil gets too hot and causes slipping and also the engine goes any where from 1100 RPM to 1700 RPM just getting on a Hwy. That is way to high from my learning and it came that way even after having the trans rebuilt and modified after the inner bell cracked. Less engine wear and better mileage is what I'm looking at. No pulling trailers.

[@topsparky100]

i have a 2001 5.3 that has 3.73 gears and going to be adding a cam here pretty soon what type of converter would i need for a street/strip install it is a daily driver.

[@TheTransam85]

With a performance torque converter should u drive in over drive or regular drive?

[@zeyadjalal1]

Does FTI 3200 or 3600 sounds good for a Cammed Dodge Charger R/T 345 Cubic inch Hemi (Comp CAM 274)

[@jamesknight8675]

Hello, I am DIY replacing an engine on 2018 Hyundai Tucson. I've separated the transmission. But having trouble removing the torque converter from the engine and caused a slight crack on the tip facing in towards the transmission. Is that going to be a huge issue? Or must replace?

[@MoparMan-ff8fb]

so I have a 1982 dodge d150 short bed with mildly built 318 4 barrel with a 727 automatic transmission with a racing shift kit . the gears are 3:55 what converter do you recomend ? I was thinking 2000 ?? O the cam is just a factory Hipo 360 cam. the rims are 15 x 8 on back with 255/75/15 and front is 15 x7 235/75/15

[@Mr2013GT]

I'm rebuilding a chrysler 400 big block w/ keith black 9 to 1's, stock heads/rods/crank. Very short stroke for a big block, so i'm looking at alot of torque with quick revs too. Ideal camshaft is around .500 to .530-ish lift, good duration, power from 2,000 rpm to 6,500 rpm, like an edelbrock performer RPM or mopar purple cam. Torqueflite w/ 8-3/4 rear, in a 1973 Plymouth, weighs about two tons. What sort of stall would you suggest for daily driver and the occasional quarter mile pass?

[@likewutt]

i have a 350 sbc 5.7 with a xtreme 4x4 cam 462/480 lift does that cam require a stall converter

[@moparnutjim]

I learned one lesson, don't go by the advertised stall rating. Bought a B&M 2400 and it stalled pretty much on the money. Had to have it repaired during race season and replaced it with a Summit one that was advertised @ 3000, but it actually only stalled @ 2200. Boy, was that ever a let down. The B&M is back in it now. Anyone want the Summit converter ? Very low mileage. Probably only 25-50 miles on it. (Torqueflite 727)

[@jordanwiley4582]

It's a RANGE, not a specific number. They said that in the video like 10 times. But 800rpm is a bit too much. Baybe + or - 300rpm would be fine, but not 800.

[@kennerdell8]

moparnutjim still have it? 😂

[@Tom-wq2mz]

moparnutjim what is for. Im looking for one

[@JonFFavale]

I have a 94 camaro z28 with an intake and magnaflow exhaust. My plans for my car are headers, cam, heads, and porting my lt1 from 350 to 383 and putting in 3.73 gears. Its a 4l60e that's being built to handle 600hp. I was thinking a yank ss3600. Opinions?

[@jwsmith2008]

Summit, I am trying to find an upgraded converter for a 2013 Dodge Dart 2.0L with Power-tech 6F24. Here is some information to assist in this: Displacement - 1,995 cc Compression ratio - 10.2:1 Cam profile - Dual-Overhead / DOHC Injector size - 36 mm Transmission model year - 2013 Gear Ratios - 1st - 4.21 / 2nd - 2.64 / 3rd - 1.80 / 4th - 1.39 / 5th - 1.00 / 6th - 0.77 Rearend gear ratio - 3.20 (final-drive ratio) the torque rating is only capable of 185 ft-lb of torque and I know a lot of 2.4 and 2.0 guys are coming close to hitting that limiter with tunes and bolt on upgrades. The 2.4L stock from factory is already pushing, 174 lb-ft, and with only 185 ft-lbs available from the power-tech automatic, there is little room for growth. Let me know if you need any other information in regards to the Dart, I will try and help out as much as possible with the information I have. I think if we are able to get a past the stock 185 ft-lb torque rating on the power-tech a lot of others will see the potential in the automatic and the Dart.

[@andrewc2002]

I have a 1984 Chevy Caprice. I replaced the 305 with a 350 motor, which is pretty much stock minus a Lunati Cam and Lifter Kit. Part # 60101LK. I will be redoing the gears, either 4:10 or 3:73, Havent decided yet. What stall converter should I go with?