85 A4LD and duraspark

[ford4wd08]

I have a question for the transmission guys.

Can you leave the computer in place to control the TC lock up on a 85 when you do a duraspark swap?

Is that part of control independent of carb control?

What does the comouter monitor to control TC lock up?

 

[ford4wd08]

Anyone know?

 

[RonD]

You can get rid of the computer if the carb is no longer the feed back model

The TCC lockup was for better MPG, but is not needed unless you want to control it manually, with a switch on the dash

The computer used Speed, and RPMs to determine when to lock up torque converter early, the torque converter will lock up on its own above 35-40MPH
With the Duraspark conversion computer loses RPM signal

And look at the Duraspark distributor with HEI module, instead of duraspark module, way better and more reliable system

 

[ford4wd08]

I'm circling back to this.....

@RonD question for you sir if you have a moment.

So what you're telling me is that since the transmission is hydraulically and vacuum controlled, it will function normally and the Torque converter will lock itself once it reaches highway speed (~45 mph). The only benefit is that the torque converter would lock earlier at lower speeds with the computer to benefit gas mileage? I understand I can install a switch to be able to do this.

Would this harm the trans in any way to run it without an earlier lock up? I assume temps might be a little higher? This thing will be driven at highway speed 90% of the time, but I can add a switch if I feel the need to lock it earlier.

 

[RonD]

No I think I goofed on that one, as far as I know the torque converter would never lock up, the solenoid blocks the pathway that would normally lock it on say a C4 automatic that has no solenoids

Yes, you can install a ground switch on the dash that would lock the solenoid

 

[ford4wd08]

No I think I goofed on that one, as far as I know the torque converter would never lock up, the solenoid blocks the pathway that would normally lock it on say a C4 automatic that has no solenoids

Yes, you can install a ground switch on the dash that would lock the solenoid

Ok, thanks for the reply. I don't really want to have to deal with a switch, but it might be a option.

Trying to figure out what I'm going to don with this.... I would like to go to duraspark because I believe my engine is under performing from gas mileage and all, but not sure how to handle the trans other than a switch... I guess another this is I can lock it earlier. Decisions, decisions....

 

[ford4wd08]

After a little research online, I found this vacuum switch available...

The other GM switch is hard to find and expensive when you do find it....

https://www.jegs.com/i/TCI/890/CMP3766B/10002/-1?parentProductId

I believe this one will work for anyone with a A4LD.

 

[Transman304]

A4LD Pressure Switch For Lock Up Torque Convertor - The Ranger Station

This is an automatic engagement solution for an early type A4LD 2 wire lock-up. The pressure switch is installed in the governor portion of the transmission body. When the fluid pressure reaches the switch tolerance the switch closes completing … Continued

www.therangerstation.com

 

[ford4wd08]

A4LD Pressure Switch For Lock Up Torque Convertor - The Ranger Station

This is an automatic engagement solution for an early type A4LD 2 wire lock-up. The pressure switch is installed in the governor portion of the transmission body. When the fluid pressure reaches the switch tolerance the switch closes completing … Continued

www.therangerstation.com

I've seen that before. Can you do that with the trans installed?

That would most likely be the best and easiest solution.

 

[Transman304]

Yes it can be done in vehicle. May require cross member removal and lowered down in some applications. I use this in applications where customers have a older vehicle that is not computer controlled and want to replace the 3 speed with a overdrive unit.
Brad

 

[ford4wd08]

Yes it can be done in vehicle. May require cross member removal and lowered down in some applications. I use this in applications where customers have a older vehicle that is not computer controlled and want to replace the 3 speed with a overdrive unit.
Brad

Awesome, thank you for the information!

I can easily do that since I have remove the trans before.

I'm a little nervous about drilling a hole like that, but it shouldn't be too bad. Luckily it is in aluminum.

 

[ford4wd08]

Ordered this switch today. Hopefully I can get installed.

I am thinking of ordering all of the duraspark stuff this weekend and trying to get it all installed next weekend.

 

[RonD]

Just a s heads up
Duraspark distributor and HEI ignition module would be a better combo than the Duraspark module
Simple wiring and just a better system

Chevy(GM) doesn't do much right but they did do the HEI system right.

 

[ford4wd08]

Just a s heads up
Duraspark distributor and HEI ignition module would be a better combo than the Duraspark module
Simple wiring and just a better system

Chevy(GM) doesn't do much right but they did do the HEI system right.

Hi Ron, yes I've read your words of wisdom on the topic.

That is my plan, I have another thread dedicated to the Duraspark Distributor/ HEI module setup.

I'm getting horrible gas mileage now, and I don't want to wade through the old computer garbage, so I am going to get rid of it once and for all!

 

[ford4wd08]

Got my pressure switch in yesterday.

I'll try my best to get it installed this weekend.