C3 Tech/Performance V8 Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine, Basic Tech and Maintenance for the C3 Corvette
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Old Apr 13, 2025 | 12:01 AM
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Default 81 tcc

Hi there, just looking for some confirmation if I change my carb and hei, this will not have any effect on tcc function , I think not but as believe it gets a water temp and brake but don't know how that is wired . Cheers colin
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Old Apr 13, 2025 | 09:11 AM
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Why do you want rip out the CCC?

When I bought my 81 that is what many will tell you to do, but do you really need to.

I kept my CCC, bought a shop manual and read all that I could find on maintaining the CCC. After rebuilding the engine, carb and updating with other OEM parts I got the CCC fine tuned and never looked back. The CCC or non-CCC C3 is only as good as who sets it up. You will get better performance, gas mileage etc.

As to your question, the CCC controls the timing, carb, lock up torque converter and monitors the MAF, EGR, Temp, oxygen sensor, and other pollution control equipment. If you do replace the carb, distro et. You will need to find a solution for the lock up torque converter.

Reach out anytime for assistance.

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Old Apr 13, 2025 | 02:29 PM
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All stock corvettes bring in more money
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Old Apr 13, 2025 | 03:36 PM
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Thanks, you have a very valid points. Have only just bought the car so will live with it for awhile and see how it goes. 100% don't want to loose lockup, in fact would love to go 200r4 for economy but they are like hens teeth out here.
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Old Apr 13, 2025 | 11:40 PM
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If the '81 engine control system is still intact and operational, it is better than a regular carb, IMO. Better idle, better fuel mileage, etc. But, to answer your question, yes, I believe that if you leave the computer connected to the transmission, it will manage the L/U system even though the dizzy and carb have been replaced.
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Old Apr 14, 2025 | 12:59 AM
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Originally Posted by av81
All stock corvettes bring in more money
That's really not true.
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Old Apr 14, 2025 | 08:57 AM
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Originally Posted by 7T1vette
If the '81 engine control system is still intact and operational, it is better than a regular carb, IMO. Better idle, better fuel mileage, etc. But, to answer your question, yes, I believe that if you leave the computer connected to the transmission, it will manage the L/U system even though the dizzy and carb have been replaced.

Just a correction. If you remove the carb and distro the CCC will no longer control the lockup torque converter. The CCC requires feed back from the TPS on the electronic carb to control when to lock up the torque converter. 🙄
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Old Apr 14, 2025 | 01:28 PM
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Can you put the TPS on a regular carb so that the hook-up can be completed? Thanks for the correction.
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Old Apr 14, 2025 | 05:35 PM
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Originally Posted by 4-vettes
That's really not true.
it's very true , look at Mecum, Barrett Jackson, and old car dealers , there is a youtube channel c3 that guy showcases auction cars have a look, I have seen good money build c3 cars not even sell or sell for short money . I am only saying what I see I am sure some real nice built cars get good money.
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 08:18 AM
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Originally Posted by 7T1vette
Can you put the TPS on a regular carb so that the hook-up can be completed? Thanks for the correction.
The ECM is fed information from the TPS, MAP, O2, etc. It will adjust the A/F ratio within it's limits when driving. The torque converter requires the electronic signal to lock up. The E4ME carb on the 1981 is unique in its design and also used on othe GM cars in the 80’s. A standard Rochester carb will not have the slot cut out or internals for adjusting or installing the TPS.
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 08:59 AM
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the 1980 Vette TCC vacuum switch is your answer to keep the 1981 TCC working with the CCC system scrapped
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 12:20 PM
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Ok, what is TCC and CCC? I know ECM is Engine Control Module but the other two I'm lost.

JT
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 12:26 PM
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Originally Posted by Eric P
the 1980 Vette TCC vacuum switch is your answer to keep the 1981 TCC working with the CCC system scrapped
The 1981 uses an electronic connection to trigger the Lock Up Torque converter. Not sure if you can use a pressure switch like the 1980?

81 is a TH350C lockup transmission. The ECM monitors and controls the lock up function.
The TH350C was the lock-up version of the TH350 automatic transmission, and it was available in 1981 Corvettes. The TH350C used an electronic lock-up converter to improve fuel efficiency at cruising speeds. The 1981 Corvette offered a 3-speed automatic transmission with a 2.87 final drive ratio as an option.

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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 12:35 PM
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Originally Posted by jthornton
Ok, what is TCC and CCC? I know ECM is Engine Control Module but the other two I'm lost.

JT

TCC stands for Torque Converter Clutch
CCC stands for Computer Command Control
ECM stands for Engine Control Module
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 05:22 PM
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Originally Posted by Reaper19
The 1981 uses an electronic connection to trigger the Lock Up Torque converter. Not sure if you can use a pressure switch like the 1980?

81 is a TH350C lockup transmission. The ECM monitors and controls the lock up function.
The TH350C was the lock-up version of the TH350 automatic transmission, and it was available in 1981 Corvettes. The TH350C used an electronic lock-up converter to improve fuel efficiency at cruising speeds. The 1981 Corvette offered a 3-speed automatic transmission with a 2.87 final drive ratio as an option.
1980 had the th350c as well just controlled lockup through a vacuum switch on the firewall
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 06:53 PM
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Originally Posted by Golfobsessed
1980 had the th350c as well just controlled lockup through a vacuum switch on the firewall
Yes I am seeing information on how to make the Trans look after itself with pressure switches and wiring and the brake switch to disengage it.
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Old Apr 15, 2025 | 07:11 PM
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Originally Posted by corvettecolin
Yes I am seeing information on how to make the Trans look after itself with pressure switches and wiring and the brake switch to disengage it.
Should be some aftermarket options... this is the 1980 vacuum switch and run through the brake switch
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Old Apr 16, 2025 | 08:26 AM
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Originally Posted by Golfobsessed
1980 had the th350c as well just controlled lockup through a vacuum switch on the firewall
Interesting, good to know.

Thanks
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