700R4 Torque Converters

Like the clutch of a manual transmission vehicle, a torque converter (often called a “stall converter” when it features higher stall speed for improved acceleration) smoothly transfers power from your engine’s flexplate to an automatic transmission. For more details on how these fluid couplers work and how to choose one for your application, check out this video on our blog, On All Cylinders.

The Turbo Hydra-Matic 700R4 automatic transmission was developed by GM in the 1980s as a more fuel-efficient 4-speed version of the TH350. It features a 30% overdrive in 4th gear to improve fuel economy. It was renamed 4L60 in 1990, and then upgraded to the electronically controlled 4L60E in 1993. Torque converters made compatible with one will usually fit all three, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. For example, if your transmission was equipped with a lockup torque converter, you must replace it with a lockup converter or modify your transmission for use with a non-lockup converter.

Towing, racing, and off-roading can put extra demands on your 700R4/4L60/4L60E transmission and torque converter. The heat and pressure created by high horsepower can also cause ordinary converters to “balloon” or expand, causing misalignment and damage, so most aftermarket converters are often reinforced with anti-ballooning features to survive these conditions. You can also choose a converter with a different stall speed to match your application (racing, towing, etc.).

Top Brands

For your 700R4-powered project, don’t compromise on quality. Choose an aftermarket torque converter from a trusted name brand, like Hays, Boss Hog, Performance Automatic, Hughes, FTI Performance, B&M, or our own Summit Racing brand.