converter difference

[mojavered]

Looking at a torque converter, is there an easy way to tell that it is for a big block or small block?  Was there a difference in the Hemi or 440 six pack converters than the ones uses on a 440 or 383?  Thanks!

[oldkimmer]

............they all fit big or small block 727s,...............all have different stall speeds and stall differently behind different engine sizes.........66 up is new style..................kim............

[Moparinho]

the more importat criteria during a torque converter selection is the stall speed.  If I'm not wrong, the original stock converter had about 1.000rpm stall while if you plan to have a more powerfull engine (>500hp) and a lot of fun spinning your wheels, you can go up to 3.000rpm as stall speed.
 

[tactransman]

The more important difference is balance weights on the converter for different engines.

[mojavered]

I had my tranny rebuilt and a converter traded in old converter for new one.  Some guy that came by my house said that the converter I had was for a small block.  I could not go to the man that rebuilt my trans because he passed away.  So, I guess I just need to press my luck and go on town to a couple shops and see what they can tell me about it?  See if it is set up for a big block?  I am just wanting to run stock stall speed converter, but want to make sure that it is set up for my engine.  Any suggestions?  Anything in particular that people are going to want to know about the engine?  Thanks!

[tactransman]

Post a pic of the front (threaded pads side) of the converter and I can tell you what you got.

[mojavered]

Thank you sir!  Here is a pic of the front and back. 

[tactransman]

That converter is a small bowl (bolt pattern),will fit 318,440 STEEL crank,340 STEEL crank and 383.

[tactransman]

Oh.... and the "H" on the part # means it is a high factory stall (around 1800-1900 RPM)

[mojavered]

So, if I have an after market forged crank, I should be fine with that converter?  Thanks!

[tactransman]

Yes,it should be internally balanced.

[Moparal]

I believe so, as long as your cam isnt to big .  Personally, I'd want a bit bigger stall, maybe a 2400/2600, but the lower the stall the less slipage and better fuel economy

[mojavered]

Thanks!  Hopefully it was!

It is predominantly a street car, pretty small cam, only .528 or so.  I think that the stall should be perfect.  When I upgrade the cam, then I will start looking at more stall.

[Moparal]

Thanks!  Hopefully it was!

It is predominantly a street car, pretty small cam, only .528 or so.  I think that the stall should be perfect.  When I upgrade the cam, then I will start looking at more stall.

 A 509 cam wont work with it, nor do I believe a 528 would suffice. 

[tactransman]

It will "work" but your engine will not perform the way it could. You should have about a 3000 stall.