Torque Converter Lock Up Kit

[brussum]

I came across the Australian Images website when installing my suspension (lots of great project how-to videos on there). One thing he discusses is a torque converter lockup kit. It seemed like an interesting modification. So, I'm curious...what's the collective opinion or wisdom regarding such a modification?

http://australianimages.com.au/project200/torque-converter-lockup.php

http://richardsauto.com.au/wp/?page_id=1619

 

[TioChachie]

Isn't it for the diesel?


97 fzj80 trail rig
2004 taco 4wd daily driver
Saving $ for my 200!

 

[gaijin]

Update 17/10/14 - Check engine light

Since fitting the kit several months (and about 10,000km) ago, I've twice experienced a "check engine" warning related to the TC lockup. The exact combination of warning lights displayed are: Check engine, 4-Lo (flashing) and Traction Control.

The code given by the computer is P2757, which indicates that the computer sees that the TC is locked, but thinks it shouldn't be (or visa-versa). After speaking to Stefan, it seems this is an occasional side-effect of the lockup kits where they can't fool the ECU fast enough, causing the warning under certain circumstances when the TC locks or unlocks.

There's no side effect of the warning (limp mode etc), and there's no damage being done. The only issue is the lights on the dash. If you have an Ultragaugeor ScanGauge

(or similar), you can reset the warning immediately. If not, switching off the vehicle for a couple of minutes usually resets the warning (although it is stored in the ECU). Otherwise, you can disconnect the batteries for about 30 seconds.

It seems to be a rare occurrance and I'm not concerned about it, but it's worth noting that this can occur for reference.

Now ... I would not be happy with that

 

[brussum]

The manufacturer states they make them for both diesel and petrol Cruisers.

I agree, having the warning come on periodically wouldn't thrill me either. But, he does state there is no issues present...it seems like basically an induced computer glitch.

 

[lumpy70]

I installed it about 4 years ago and honestly never used it other than to prove it worked. The couple times I tried it, it didn't really make any difference.

 

[Billfish]

I've had my kit in for over a year without a single fault incidence. I left it at the preset speed switching (locks in at 50 mph and releases at 44mph) so perhaps that might account for it performing faultlessly. Now I wouldn't be without it. It makes the driving experience so much better without the gearbox hunting for gears between 5 and 6 - while at the same time giving me 10% or more in fuel savings - less energy is lost through at the gearbox as gear slippage is now converted to delivered power. I'm not sure you boys up there have the same 6 speed gearbox??

 

[Willy beamin]

Yep - 6 speed here

 

[brussum]

I've had my kit in for over a year without a single fault incidence. I left it at the preset speed switching (locks in at 50 mph and releases at 44mph) so perhaps that might account for it performing faultlessly. Now I wouldn't be without it. It makes the driving experience so much better without the gearbox hunting for gears between 5 and 6 - while at the same time giving me 10% or more in fuel savings - less energy is lost through at the gearbox as gear slippage is now converted to delivered power. I'm not sure you boys up there have the same 6 speed gearbox??

Thanks! It might be worthy of more investigation, particularly the compatibility with US-spec transmissions and the cost savings vs purchase price. Messing with expensive components (and wiring) does make me a little nervous though.

 

[NLScooby]

I came across the same video @brussum saw. Has anyone else stateside installed this?