4R70W Torque Converter

[stretch]

I'm currently rebuilding my trans due to the 1-2 slipping. I know there is metal in the system, so I was wondering if anyone had suggestions regarding the torque converter. I know at a minimum I want to get it flushed and/or rebuilt. What is everyone's suggestion? I'm in the Houston/north Houston area, so if anyone has knowledge of reputable shops, I would appreciate it.

The other option would be to just buy a reman unit. Any suggestions there would help as well. If this is the route I take would you change the stall speed or keep the stock Explorer numbers.

I'm running a complete 98 Explorer engine and trans.

 

[Quick & Dirty]

The stock Explorer converter is a high stall unit. K factor =165, torque multiplication ratio = 2.4
If you are happy with it, get it rebuilt or replace with the same.

K = rpm/sqrt{torque}

The low stall 110K one was used with the 5.4 modular in trucks, not sure if it works with the 5.0.
The 11" converter was used in police cars and the Mercury Marauder with the 4.6 modular. The 12" converter will balloon above 5200 rpm. The 11" is good to 6000.

 

[Broncobowsher]

I found a stock Explorer one to be a very good choice for overall use. I remember looking into the modular motor convertors when I was doing a V8 ranger, there was an issue that I don't remember that keeps them from being used. Had to go for the Explorer convertor or a custom/aftermarket one.

 

[stretch]

I’ll plan on staying with the stock Explorer TC. Now what’s the consensus on buying a reman vs having mine flushed? I never really was able to get up to speed with the 1-2 slip so I don’t know the condition of the TC.

 

[Broncobowsher]

If just flushed, pass. A good convertor shop will cut it open and clean it out, replace the clutch, replace the bearing(s), inspect, etc. If you don't have a convertor rebuild shop around I would then go for a reman.