I removed all the computer controlled stuff (carb, distro) from my 86 LG4 long ago. I still have the computer in the car and just basically left the wires bundled under the hood. Does the torque converter still lock up? Of course it's the stock 700R4. If not, what kind of damage am I doing? I have a TCI computerless lockup kit that I never installed. Is it necessary, since the computer's still there?

 

If the computer is disabled the torque converter is not locking up. Running the converter unlocked just lets the tranny slip a little more creating more heat. If you want the lock up you will have to use an aftermarket switch like the one you have.

 

Is this going to do any damage? What exactly is going on when the TC locks up? And will installing a TCI shift kit negate any of my problems? I ran the car this way for months and I never had any shifting probs. I just don't wanna end up suddenly with a hunk of metal between my engine and rear.

 

That´a a good question. I would also like to know about this!

 

Heat is the number one killer of OD trannies. When your not in lock-up, your using fluid coupling to transfer power from the engine to the tranny/driveline. This creates heat and additional wear on parts. When locked up, your not using fluid coupling to transfer power anymore since the TQ clutch is locked like a manual tranny.

If your not going to use the lock-up, I would install a tranny temp gauge and perhaps an extra tranny cooler at a minimum. Alot of tranny websites say that for every 20 degrees drop in temp you double the life of your tranny.