Trans choice questions.

[Jim Kaekel]

I would go with the TH-350. Get the aluminum forward and direct drums (with HD sprag). If you can find a TH-250, they have a lightweight sun gear shell, gun drilled output shaft and front planetary that uses a roller bearing. TCI sells a low volume pump that is reasonably priced. If you have machine shop access, you can lighten up the output shaft and planetaries as well. Also, convert all thrust washers to needle thrust roller bearings. Another plus is installing clutch separators in low/reverse, second and high gear clutch packs, which cuts down on rotational drag. The higher you spin the motor, the more the lightweight stuff helps. Just my .02.

[bert powell]

Originally Posted by Jim Kaekel

I would go with the TH-350. Get the aluminum forward and direct drums (with HD sprag). If you can find a TH-250, they have a lightweight sun gear shell, gun drilled output shaft and front planetary that uses a roller bearing. TCI sells a low volume pump that is reasonably priced. If you have machine shop access, you can lighten up the output shaft and planetaries as well. Also, convert all thrust washers to needle thrust roller bearings. Another plus is installing clutch separators in low/reverse, second and high gear clutch packs, which cuts down on rotational drag. The higher you spin the motor, the more the lightweight stuff helps. Just my .02.

Thanks for the reply Jim! What are clutch separators?

[Mark Yacavone]

Originally Posted by bert powell

Thanks for the reply Jim! What are clutch separators?

Bert, Are you thinking about building the 350 yourself? If you are, PM me and I will answer your question for you.

[Jim Kaekel]

They are short, round strips of rubber, a bit thicker than the steels, and are used to separate the clutches from the steels to reduce rotational drag. Alto Products actually makes them for the Powerglide that can be used in a TH-350 or TH-400 as well.