stall speed converters

[isaltz]

if i am using a 2600 - 3000 stall speed and i am cruising on hwy at 65 and only turning bout 2200 or 2500, will it start slipping cause its below the stall speed or once it takes off and locks does it stay locked? your opinion please

[Allen husa]

I have the very same setup and turn about the same RPM at 65 mph - never had any trouble but will real be looking forward to our friend's replies!

cornshuck

[isaltz]

i have spoken to many people, some say i need a stall speed, some say i dont, engine idle will be low, why do i need a stall speed? im just trying to find out what i need before i build it not after, any advice would be welcome. as of now i will be using one of the following, both crate motors, either a 355 with approx 375hp,405tq or the 383 stroker with approx 420hp, 450tq, i have heard from mechanics, engine rebuilders etc but i need to hear from guys in t's that know what works and what doesnt, and why? thanks

[Lee in KC]

I have a 3000 stall converter. I love it. My T idles at 1000 due to the cam, so I need a higher than standard stall so I don't have to stand on the brake at stop lights. Also, the cam "comes in" right about 2500, so I'm just getting into the power curve as the converter "stalls." As light as our Ts are, there is much less rolling resistance from a standing start, so a "stall" converter acts like it has a lower stall than what the label says. That is true for a stock converter, which may be designed for 1000-1200 stall in a 2-ton car, but in a less than 1-ton T, it may feel like it's "stalling" more like 800-900. A non-lock-up "stall" converter never completely "stalls"... there will always be some slippage when under load.