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Automatic tramsmission power

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Old May 1, 2007 | 03:34 AM
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Default Automatic tramsmission power

HI
I am wondering how much power can a late 1979 automatic transmission take? Since I am boosting my engine I don't want to destroy the clutch and transmission. according to the catalog I should be around 300hp and 375 ft/lbs when I have everything installed. Is this ok with stock driveline, clutch and transmission?
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Old May 1, 2007 | 08:41 AM
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IMO, depending on you're manual downshifting habits, you should be okay at that power level. You've reached the threshhold though I think. Realize it's clutches not clutch...5-6 in each drum, 3 in the front, 5-6 in the rear...one band. I'd have the trans. overhauled and add a shift kit if it's an old transmission. You may want to opt. for a T-400 though if you want to forget about trans. worries. Get more opinions for sure....we're loaded with em'
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Old May 1, 2007 | 12:54 PM
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It will probably hold up for a while but I would have your TH350 upgraded like jimvette999 describes. For piece of mind, anyway.
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Old May 1, 2007 | 01:14 PM
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If you aren't real hard on it, it will be OK, but at least put in a quality shift kit, they're cheap and easy. Shift kits actually improve your trans' reliability by increasing fluid pressures and limiting clutch slippage. Just note, they don't increase overall parts stregnth, the various internal parts don't magically become stronger, but the stronger band/clutch engagement improves their life and helps keep temps lower due to less slippage.
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Old May 1, 2007 | 01:27 PM
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Originally Posted by heng1
HI
I am wondering how much power can a late 1979 automatic transmission take? Since I am boosting my engine I don't want to destroy the clutch and transmission. according to the catalog I should be around 300hp and 375 ft/lbs when I have everything installed. Is this ok with stock driveline, clutch and transmission?
I am age 63, known GM for long as I been driving....I can guar an freeking tee you willl have tranny troubles if you do not overhaul it, and put in a Trans Go Shift kit......the TG kit is the only one to use, not anything else....I would stick with a stock converter......
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