TH350 questions for the experts. I can take one apart and put one back together, and that's about it haha

1) So a 36 element sprag basically means it has 36 rollers instead of the normal 8 ?

2) Any benefit to stiffer springs on the direct drum (faster release) when running an automatic valvebody ?

-- Joe

 

1) So a 36 element sprag basically means it has 36 rollers instead of the normal 8? No, it has 36 sprag elements instead of rollers. The 8 roller design can hold up well if built correctly and with the right torque converter.

2) Any benefit to stiffer springs on the direct drum (faster release) when running an automatic valve body? Yes, it helps on the 3-2 downshift and a smoother reverse.

What are you trying to accomplish here?

 

Trying to decide if I want to use this direct-drum or whatever it's called in my new build. It has 5 frictions and 5 steels, so I'm assuming the piston was machined down to accept the extra. The sprag is just a 8 roller sprag though, not the special 36 element.

We're doing the alto red's and all that, and the transgo kit for the vb, I'm just not wanting to spend $400 on a upgraded direct drum/sprag.

This is going behind my 600+ hp turbocharged 412.

-- Joe

 

If you want to stick with the stock setup, and are using use the Trans Brake. Make sure the rollers have not dug into the drum, or have started to ****. This area where the rollers ride must be in very good shape. There will be wear, just not an excessive amount. Use the heat treated sprag race, as it is annealed, made a little softer so it will give and not break as easily as the stock one. Use the later pump that came with the bearing and has the white plastic ring on the stator near where the bearing sits. If you have several pumps to choose from that have this white plastic ring, pick the one that has the least wear. DO NOT block the 2nd accumulator, just restrict it somewhat. Use the waved steel on the intermediate clutch pack, and reduce the intermediate clutch clearance to .030" - .040". If you do this correctly, you should be able to keep it alive for quite awhile with the horsepower you are putting out. The smaller diameter torque converter always helps here also. DO NOT use a Ford type F fluid here. A Dexron type of oil is good, or your own concoction if you desire.