performance converter in late 400 (1978)

Hey guys. I used the search function until my eyes bled. I need some help here.

I have a 66 dodge charger that I am in the process of installing a 400 into. This is a 78 400 with a cast crank (external balance). The transmission I am using is a 1970 trans out of an imperial.

I have no torque converter. I do have the flexplate ( on the motor,400) but no converter.

I am very concerned because this is an external balance motor that I will have issues with vibrations.

I want a 1800-2000 stall converter that wont break the bank. Any ideas?

I looked at summit and hughes but man hughes converters are pricey.

This is just a cruiser and it only got the big block because that is what I have and it runs great and the original poly motor is out and in storage but it was shot.

Please advise.

Thanks.

Dan

The 400 motor definitely needs external balance, the most practical way to handle this is with an aftermarket flexplate like the B&M #10237.

If the motor is stock and you won't be flogging it you might consider a rebuilt factory high-stall 10 3/4" converter; this will give you the stall you're looking for without breaking the bank. In some cases these converters will have the correct weight so it can use the stock flexplate.

Use the B&M flexplate part # 10237 that is designed to work on externally balanced 400 like yours,then use any convertor of your choice..

Thanks guys!


I just use that and a converter for a forged crank motor??

If you buy the weighted B&M flexplate(a very good idea IMO) make sure you buy a neutral balance(sometimes called zero balance) converter.

weighted flexplate + unweighted converter = good
stock flexplate(unweighted) + weighted converter = good

any other combo = bad.

Shoot, I have a 2200 cheapy on my van. It is nice. A putt around and hammer it everyonce in a while one @ 2500 street car would be neat!