Torque Converter or Not?

[Sticky_Molasses]

Hello, I apologize in advance if this thread is a repeat of any other ones. I’ve been modifying my engine a bit (stage two predator 212). I’ve been thinking a lot about whether or not to get a torque converter, I mostly use this bike for a dirt track I’ve made near my home. I’m looking for faster laps. Would a TC help with this or should I just mess with hearing? Again, sorry if this is a repeat post!

 

[landuse]

Hello, I apologize in advance if this thread is a repeat of any other ones. I’ve been modifying my engine a bit (stage two predator 212). I’ve been thinking a lot about whether or not to get a torque converter, I mostly use this bike for a dirt track I’ve made near my home. I’m looking for faster laps. Would a TC help with this or should I just mess with hearing? Again, sorry if this is a repeat post!

You are going to have to give some more info on what you have now. Gearing, tyre size, engine etc etc

 

[itsid]

well TCs are not for racing really, they do not respond as snappy as a well tuned clutch, and they're far less efficient in transmitting power to the rear.

So if serious racing is what you are after, then it doesn't matter if it's dirt or road.. a well tuned racing clutch with an equally well made gearing is the way to get the fastest possible laptimes.

BUT if some joy at digging through mud is the intention you are following,
and the faster laps are just to even increase the joy factor a notch..
a TC is certainly a nice addition,
down low it can provide a higher torque for quicker acceleration and when fully revved it can even end up with higher top speed.
So more flying mud dirt and gravel all around.

it's not the fastest way to lap a circuit, but for sure is not the slowest either
and it's certainly up there providing the most fun all around

'sid

 

[Sticky_Molasses]

You are going to have to give some more info on what you have now. Gearing, tyre size, engine etc etc

Right now, I have stock tires and gearing. The engine is a 196cc Honda clone. I’ve added an aftermarket exhaust and intake as well as replaced the stock carb jet with a .038 jet. Just for the heck of it I also got a clear valve cover which looks cool. I’m planning on ordering the stage 2 kit when I can save up some money (billet flywheel, connecting rod, better cam, and 18 pound valve springs).

Itsid, I appreciate the clarification as to what the TC is best for. I’m somewhere in the middle of serious racing and messing around in the backyard so I might try to go for it and see if it feels right thank you!

 

[Sticky_Molasses]

For the record, this is my Baja. Affectionately dubbed “Rusty”

 

[J.S.@SMS]

A little warning. Watch it when you accelerate from a standstill. I have the same minibike with a stock 212 and stock gearing, and anymore than half throttle at launch and the front tire comes off of the ground.

 

[Sticky_Molasses]

A little warning. Watch it when you accelerate from a standstill. I have the same minibike with a stock 212 and stock gearing, and anymore than half throttle at launch and the front tire comes off of the ground.

So far I haven’t had that problem, but if I hit a bump under the power band, it definitely becomes scary! In fact, a buddy of mine laid it down tonight that same way (no damage though).

 

[J.S.@SMS]

Yeah, I discovered that a few weeks ago. I now have a two piece back fender.