Got a non-lockup 700R4 - How do I swap up to a locking converter?

[MrC1]

A simple manual switch to engage the clutch would be fine by me, but I'm not sure what all I need to do to get there. Is it a matter of simply getting a locking converter and running some wires?

I believe my tranny has a plastic connector on it - that's not hooked to anything. I'll need to get a pic of that I guess. Hell, for all I know I already have a locking converter!

[pjmoreland]

http://www.highperformancecars.com/crosley/lockup1.htm

This article from the FAQ section helped me wire up mine. I had to put the jumper in between the two pins as shown in the article. Then providing 12 volts to the other pin causes the torque converter clutch to lock up in overdrive. On my truck I get the 12 volts from the "IGN UNFUSED" terminal on the fusepanel. I have it running through an inline fuse, and then through a brake switch I got out of a '70s van that has a second set of normally closed contacts in it. The power then runs from the brake switch to a vacuum switch I pulled out of a mid-80s truck, and then the power connects to the connector on the transmission. The brake switch unlocks the torque converter when you hit the brakes, and the vacuum switch unlocks the torque converter when you punch the accelerator. The vacuum switch connects to manifold vacuum. There is a little vacuum delay valve that goes in the vacuum line between the manifold and the vacuum switch that helps prevent the torque converter clutch from kicking on and off rapidly when you are right at the edge of the trip point of the vacuum switch.

There are several kits out there that from what I've heard work great, but I like to do things the hard way. I'll spend a lot of time to save a little money.

[MrC1]

Excellent info! Thanks very much!!