Power under load problem
 

I have a 1977 Super Gas Vega, and have a problem. The powertrain is a 496 BBC with 781 ported heads, stainless valves, 13.5:1 CR, 1050 Dominator carb, Dedenbear TS6 stop, Mike's Transmission Ultimate Glide, ATI 8" converter, 12 bolt with 4.30 gear, 32" tire. Car weighs 2700 with me in it. I have a problem now that is stumping me and I was wondering if anyone could tell me the first place to look. When I engage the transbrake to stage the car, it revs poorly and falls right on its face upon transbrake release. It also does the same thing in the waterbox, like it doesn't want to spin the tires. The motor is fresh, and everything has worked before (the problem was there before some new parts). Is this a trans/converter issue? Any help or advice is greatly appreciated, my first electronics car, sorta new at it.

Re: Power under load problem
 

sounds like a possible convertor issue

Re: Power under load problem
 

I agree, check/swap the converter.

Re: Power under load problem
 

Thanks guys, the converter will come out this weekend, and I'll let you know!!!

Re: Power under load problem
 

Broken sprag in converter.

Re: Power under load problem
 

Took the converter out this weekend, BROKEN SPRAG!!! Getting a brand new FTI piece. Thanks TONS for the help!!!!

Re: Power under load problem
 

Did you give any consideration to a spragless converter? I have tried one and I liked it.

Re: Power under load problem
 

Yeah, I am getting a spragless, less to worry about, and it'll be more consistent.

Re: Power under load problem
 

Most people will break the sprag while doing the burnout. If you keeping applying power when the cars hooks it will break the sprag. I've only had one break in the last 7 years on my SC dragster (knock, knock).

Re: Power under load problem
 

SINCE EVERYBODY IS TALKING CONVERTER AND TRANS.

might if i look in a different area.

by your handle i read "ALKYL" if that means your running alochol. then i think there is your problem. try launching on the footbrake. don't try to raise the rpm to much and just mash it on the green. dose it boog then? if not i think all you need is a converter helper wired to your trans brake. when on the brake and at lauch rpm it will send the fuel back to the tank. since you don't need that much fuel. i had the same problem with my car. that took care of the problem. you'll then need to get a high speed lean out value for the big end since lean is fast and fat is slow.