QUESTION 1

Mike,

I have a GM turbo 400 that I want to install 6 clutches in the forward and the direct drums instead of the standard 5. I know the old 425 used 6, but they are not available any longer. My question is, what needs to be done to accomplish this? Can I just modify my piston or does somebody make one to fit?

Jim
Chicago

Jim,

In the TH400 forward and direct drums there are a couple of things that can be done. First, cutting the piston can help, but be careful. Don't get the bottom steel below the drum splines. Mike's Transmission makes .058-inch thick steels for these drums. Standard steels are .077 to .095 thick. Some drums we can get 7 to 8 clutches in, depending on the drum.

Mike Stewart

QUESTION 2

Mike,

Is there a "typical" converter flash one should aim for relative to peak torque or peak horsepower in a non-trans brake application for optimum performance? (Brackets, NHRA/IHRA Stock class, nostalgia, etc.)

Thanks.

MP
Florida

MP,

Normally we shoot for launching the car at peak torque or just below that and shifting at or just above peak horsepower. This is even more important on a foot-brake car. Normally, we will use dyno figures when available to determine where to set up the flash, so it is very important to purchase a custom-built high quality torque converter!

Mike Stewart

QUESTION 3

Mike,

I have a Jeep CJ7 with a 350 and TH turbo 350 trans. I'm rebuilding the tranny, but using an '85 Monte Carlo tranny for my housing and changing the tail stock. My problem is I can't get my rear clutch pack together and locked into place. Is there a special tool or compressor for this?

Jeff

Jeff,

A couple of things to check out: 1. Some TH350s use a different number of clutch discs in the reverse pack. Some use 4 and some use 5. Check out yours. 2. Also, if you're trying to assemble the reverse spring pack, yes, there is a tool to compress the springs. You can purchase one from your local transmission parts warehouse.

Mike Stewart

QUESTION 4

Mike,

Is is possible to hurt a Powerglide doing a high gear-only burnout?

Dennis LaCanne

Dennis,

High gear burnouts are best on high-powered cars. Just roll through the water, roll on the throttle and when the tires start hooking, shut it off.

Lower powered cars need to get the RPMs up in the water and then get into high gear. Roll out till it starts to hook, then shut off.

It's all about cleaning the tires, getting some heat into them and having some fun!

Mike Stewart

Mike Stewart is owner of Mike’s Transmission in Lancaster, California. He will answer your questions about automatic or powerglide transmissions. Email: Mike@racingnetsource.com

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