A New Generation of the Torque Converter

Hughes Performance would like to introduce you to the XTM & XFM series, torque converters. Simply put . . 
There is no other like it!

Let’s first understand the main objective of the converter: A fluid coupler designed to allow the engine to idle smoothly while in gear and transfer (convert) the maximum amount of torque (power) from the engine to the drive wheels. A torque converter designed to operate in a light duty 3/4 ton vehicle should not be the same as a converter used in a heavy duty 1 ton dually or even a class “A” motor home. But . . . that is exactly what the industry has dictated to us for years . . . until now!

This “New Generation” torque converter is available for General Motors, Ford and Chrysler transmissions. The “XTM” is slightly higher stall for gas engine application and the “XFM” is a lower stall for diesel engine applications.

What is Torque Converter Stall?

Stall speed is the point where a converter has reached it’s maximum fluid flow or it has hydraulically locked up because torque multiplication has reached it’s highest point.

All stall speed ratios are approximate and will vary, based on the torque of the engine. Small and Big Block combinations will vary 300 to 500 R.P.M.’s Stall speed is the amount of engine R.P.M. that can be attained at full throttle with the brakes locked and the transmission in gear before the drive wheels turn. It is very important to determine that if your vehicle drive wheels turn before the desired stall is reached, you must either “flash” the converter to attain higher stall or install a brake proportioning valve that directs more fluid to the drive wheel brakes to better hold the vehicle. In either case, attainable stall ratio will not exceed 3500 R.P.M., due to the vehicle braking system, which is even worse with disc brake equipped cars.

Performance engines are modified to produce more horsepower and torque and it is essential to know what the peak torque or your engine is and to match the stall speed ratio of the torque converter with the engines power curve. This match will give the optimum performance or “launch” of the vehicle. There are no closer-tied components in any vehicle than the engines’ camshaft and the torque converter. Attention to this detail is of utmost importance to your vehicle’s optimum performance.

Fuel Miser 1000-1200

This is our gas mileage converter. By reducing the amount of slippage in our Fuel Miser converter by 25-30% we can effectively increase gas mileage by 2-4 miles per gallon, with a closer 1 to 1 lock-up.. Your transmission will run cooler with less friction, reducing heat build-up. Actual mileage gains may vary according to your type of driving and installation. Recommended for 400 cubic inch and larger gas engines as well as all diesel applications.

Tow Master 1800-2000

Our severe duty performance converter used in many late model trucks, crew cabs, 4×4’s and motor homes will increase bottom end pulling power without sacrificing top end efficiency or lock-up. Mileage is increased by as much as 1-2 miles per gallon. Recommended for slightly modified engines.

Street Rod 2000-2200

This converter was designed and manufactured for the street rod enthusiast needing that slight edge of the O.E.M stock converter. This unit has silicon brazing for strength, needle bearings for reliability, and stator modifications for more torque multiplication.

Street Master 2200-2500

The “Street” converter was design for the driver who is looking for that competitive advantage. By raising the stall RPM you can eliminate that slow, sluggish start. Recommended for stock to slightly modified engines to achieve performance, along with a smooth idle when the car is in gear.

XTM/XFM

These units comprise our finest tow convertor technology. All units are designed with Heavy Duty use in mind. From extra brazing to greater fluid capacity, bearing assemblies. special stator configurations and design increase torque multiplication, allowing more towing capacity and in most cases, increased gas mileage.

For the most significant towing by way of diesel engines that have their output increased, Hughes also offers the super-duty XFM series for the Ford Powerstroke, the Dodge Cummins and the GM Duramax. These units are built to take all the punishment these engines can create by using billet steel covers that cannot flex or distort even under the most challenging situations. Instead of trying to “lockup” the converter for increased efficiency and fuel mileage with any type of single disc, we have replaced it with a triple-disc design, which significantly increases the converters ability to endure the increase in torque and horsepower and still deliver top performance for your diesel application.

GM

Ford

Mopar

Be sure to fill out and submit one of our online tech cards for an immediate recommendation from one of our torque converter experts!