Just got back from riding with toy hauler and toys in tow about 12,000 lbs. I came to a stop to get on to another road that road was about two miles long and about 5-6% from the start of the hill. The truck moved the load but stayed in second at 2,000 rpms and about 35 mph could not get up to speed to get it in third with TC lockup. Does any one tow in second gear with the TC lockup or can it be done then shift it in drive and lockup in third? The trans has an old BD low stall TC and a Transgo shift kit old also done back in 1998 still holds good. Power is Banks Stinger Plus 243 hp in a 1997 auto. My Gear Vendor doesnt work well in second but sweet in third. Need some help.

 

Huh? Not sure exactly what you are asking

 

Yes you can. I wouldn't recommend leaving it locked up during 2-3 shift. I've also found with mine that I need to give the tranny a second or two to unlock before shifting. That might be different if you use the jumper instead of the resistor in the wiring. With some VB mods you can also make these trannys lockup in first.

 

Mine locks in first gear and I used it towing my 19' TT this winter. I like the way that worked really well.

 

Adding a lock up switch is a better option if you need to stay in 2nd gear. Just make sure to put the shift selector in 2nd gear to keep it there. As WVAussie mentioned you DO NOT want to let it shift locked up. Extended running in 2nd gear without lock-up will generate a lot of heat in the tranny even with a lower stall converter.

Another thought is to add a 3k GSK and a different plate. That may extend your power curve enough to get into 3rd gear. Problem is you really want to get your road speed high enough so the engine rpm is stays up near 2,000 in lock-up.

The real trick is to watch your EGTs and make sure to stay around 1200° for extended power pulls. With a GSK you can really generate EGTs before a shift, but it will cool down again once the rpm drops.

 

I shift mine locked all the time. Really depends a lot on how your valve body is set up.

 

John,
Funny that you mention adding a 3k GSK and a different plate i was thinking a GSK and a #10 but i think what i have now might be giving me a bit more power so maybe just slide it forward some. Can i use my VG with 2nd locked up and well it unlock and lockup like it does in 3rd because it works great in 3rd.