The TH350 is a three-speed automatic transmission that was commonly used in GM vehicles from the late 1960s through the 1980s. A common modification to improve fuel efficiency and reduce heat buildup is to add a lock-up torque converter. This modification requires the installation of a lock-up kit and proper wiring to operate the lock-up function. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to wire your TH350 lock up kit.
What is a TH350 Lock Up Kit?
A lock-up kit is an aftermarket device that can be installed on an automatic transmission to engage and disengage the torque converter clutch. The clutch engages the torque converter, creating a direct connection between the engine and transmission. Once engaged, the torque converter works like a manual clutch, locking up the transmission and reducing heat buildup. The TH350 lock-up kit is designed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce engine RPM, and prevent transmission slippage.
What Does a TH350 Lock Up Kit Consist Of?
A TH350 lock-up kit comes with all the necessary components to install the lock-up function, including a solenoid, a pressure switch, and an installation kit. The kit includes a wiring harness, mounting hardware, and instructions for installation. The solenoid is responsible for engaging and disengaging the torque converter clutch, while the pressure switch monitors the fluid pressure in the transmission and sends a signal to the solenoid to engage the clutch.
Why Install a TH350 Lock Up Kit?
The TH350 lock-up kit offers several benefits to vehicle owners, including:
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Reduced engine RPM
- Reduced heat buildup in the transmission
- Prevention of transmission slippage
How to Wire a TH350 Lock Up Kit?
The TH350 lock-up kit can be easily installed by following these simple steps:
Step 1: Mount the Solenoid
The first step in wiring your TH350 lock-up kit is to mount the solenoid. The solenoid should be mounted on the side of the transmission, near the torque converter. The kit should come with mounting hardware and instructions for installation.
Step 2: Install the Pressure Switch
The pressure switch should be installed in the 1st or 2nd gear oil passage on the transmission case. This will allow the switch to monitor the fluid pressure in the transmission and send a signal to the solenoid to engage the clutch.
Step 3: Connect the Wiring Harness
The wiring harness should be connected to the solenoid and the pressure switch. The kit should come with detailed instructions for wiring your TH350 lock-up kit. Proper wiring is necessary for the solenoid to engage and disengage the clutch.
Step 4: Test the Lock-Up Function
After completing the installation and wiring of your TH350 lock-up kit, you should test the lock-up function. Start the vehicle and engage the lock-up function. The lock-up should engage when the vehicle reaches cruising speed and disengage when the vehicle slows down or comes to a stop.
Conclusion
The TH350 lock-up kit is a simple and effective modification to improve fuel efficiency and reduce heat buildup in the transmission. Proper wiring is necessary for the solenoid to engage and disengage the clutch. By following these simple steps, you can easily install and wire your TH350 lock-up kit.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What vehicles is the TH350 lock-up kit compatible with? | The TH350 lock-up kit is compatible with most GM vehicles equipped with the TH350 transmission. |
| What is the benefit of installing a lock-up kit? | The benefit of installing a lock-up kit is improved fuel efficiency and reduced heat buildup in the transmission. |
| How do I know if my lock-up kit is working? | You can test your lock-up function by engaging the lock-up function and driving at cruising speed. The lock-up should engage and disengage automatically. |
| What is the cost of a TH350 lock-up kit? | The cost of a TH350 lock-up kit varies depending on the brand and quality of the kit. Kits can range from $100 to $300. |
