1/23/2008

I am new to racing and have never used a transbake.  I want to put a c4 w/brake in my sbf Mustang.  It makes between 500 and 550 hp with nitrous and has a 4.56 9in rear. I currently use a 3500 torque convertor.  How does the t-brake work and at what rpms can i launch at? Barry Long Conway, South Carolina

Barry,

A transbrake is the greatest thing for reaction times, not to mention ET, but the drive train must be ready for this. First we need a torque converter to match the engine/car combination. Second, a transmission that will hold up to the transbrake use, as well as a strong rear differential, driveshaft, u-joints, et cetera. We need an ignition system with a two step. The two step is a secondary rev limiter which only works with the transbrake button applied. The torque converter setup is still the limiting factor on the stall speed. We want to set the two step about 400 – 500 rpm below maximum stall of the converter. This is a starting point which we can experiment with at the track. The transbrake basically locks the transmission in first and reverse to hold the car. When you come off the button, reverse comes off and you are shot forward. You have to be careful while you are on the transbrake; the fluid temperature shoots up fast, so learn to stay on the brake for the shortest time possible. If you stay on the brake too long, the fluid will begin to break down and burn and damage the torque converter and transmission.

Mike

Mike’s Transmission
Lancaster CA
(661) 723-0081
www.mikestransmission.com

 

Ask the Experts!!

Submit your tech question to Mike Stewart here. Your Question Your name: Your location: Your email: Do you want to subscribe to our FREE email newsletter? Yes No Your Question may or may not be chosen to be published on this page.

You can also email Mike Stewart at trannytech@dragracingonline.com