can a s/p 400 be converted to a regular turbo 400? in put would greatly be appreciated. would like to rebuild and convert and put behind a 500hp 455.
If you disable the stator solenoid, (pull the connector from the side switch that triggers the solenoid) the "variable pitch" function will be be negated and the transmission will operate in low stall (normal stall). You do not have to do anything else. The "switch pitch" is simply the activation of the converter stator vanes changing from high stall/low stall, and if the electrical input is removed, the transmission will operate as any other non-variable transmission. And no need to change the pump/converter. Many transmission shops (back in the day) eliminated the variable pitch components when rebuilding transmissions, because it made repairs fast and simpler from the jobber POV. FWIW I am running an ST400 (Switch Pitch) in my '68 Skylark and a BBB.
Is it going to be for a drag strip application? The SP400 is actually a really cool transmission when everything is dialed in. It is not ideal for consistent track times, but a joy to drive on the street.
I used to run the KBC107 with KB is 149 switch pitch converter wired to the brake switch car drove like a Cadillac other than a high idle 1300 RPM.
All true, but low stall, especially on the larger 13" converter, is pretty low. Might stifle the performance a bit especially if you have a cam. The switch pitch is an awesome transmission. Be a shame just to deactivate it. My question is, Why do that?
Simply answering how he can "eliminate" the function without spending a penny. Now, if he had started and argument on about the merits of the variable pitch, I would use different words.
The switch pitch will stand up to a pretty stout 455. I was able to get mine very consistent at the drag strip by making the switch to low stall just before the 1-2 shift.
