I know the TC brand mentioned in this thread. Last one I saw was a stock stall unit with billet cover. Too much torque applied when making that RPM drop from fluid to lock-up will fry it. If you stay away from that, it will last. I'd still limit it to 300 - 350 hp.

Valve bodies are all built from shift kits. BUT, don't mistake there are other differences in valve bodies beyond just that. They may not matter to you or be needed for your use, but there are differences to some.

IMO - The TC lockup clutch(s) can be less aggressive with tighter fluid but tighter fluid means harder to spool turbo's which means more smoke. Finding the balance for your application is what everyone needs to do. It can be done with MUCH less $$ in many cases.

The increased line pressure and VB mods will change the shift firmness. My tranny was yanked at 107k miles running my own "home brew stuff" and it looked good. Even the converter after it was cut open. Imagine that. Almost 60k miles at 400+ hp and numerous 1/4 mile passes at a best of 13.65 with 25 psi launches in 4WD.

BUT - your best product out there is gonna cost ya.

I do have a Suncoast triple now with still Jeff Garmon's own valvebody and it is even better.

 

nice post david,,,setting up how tight a con to your own particular setup is a good point and should be considered....the convertors the company mentioned that i have seen were lower stall milled stator convertors.i didnt know they even offered one with a stock stall with billet cover.theres no arguing that the higher end tranny companies are offering better products,the point was simply that if your staying at a reasonable hp range,you can still improve over your stock set up without breaking the bank..i myself am running one of goerends valve bodies and triple disc convertors...........bama