Using the 727 torque converter

[fischrman]

I'm at the stage of my 727 transmission / np229 conversion where I am ready for install. To anyone that has done this, is it ok to use the 727 torque converter or do I need to get another one.  I'm half tempted to buy a new one while it's out but wanted to get some feedback from people who have done the conversion
Thanks in advance

[carnuck]

Use the converter it came with unless you rebuilt the trans. The bolts line up only 1 way unless you get an '87 up 727 from a Grand Wagoneer, in which case you need a Wrangler flexplate because it uses the same starter as the 4.0Lhe ring gear is 3/8" offset closer to the motor. The bolt pattern is also even so you will only be able to bolt up 3 of the 4 converter bolts on the older style flexplates.

[fischrman]

Thank you.   Just put the trans in and I guess I started on the wrong hole because none of the bolts are lining up after the first.   Is it ok to only use 3 bolts out of 4?

[IowaEagle]

I would bolt it up correctly .

[fischrman]

What's correctly? Lol.  That's what I'm trying to figure out.   

[1985amceagle]

did you try turning the torque converter before putting the bolts in? it sounds like the flex plate and torque converter mate together in only one position.

[carnuck]

Just keep turning till all 4 line up. I usually paint match thru the inspection plate before disassembling.

[fischrman]

Thanks guys I got it.  Lucky for me I got it on second variation try.     Now for the sake of future searchers...      When converting 228 trans transmission tranny to the tf727 727 out of a wagoneer into an eagle with 288 i6 use the torque converter that came with the tf 727    It bolts right up but only one way aka bolt configuration.   Thanks to all the guys that helped me with my probably stupid questions

[carnuck]

Same thing with the 998 converters

[eaglefreek]

Many auto transmissions torque converters only bolt on one way. I'm not sure, but maybe it's for balancing or maybe so the wrong converter isn't bolted up.  I do what Jim recommends. Before assembly line up the bolt holes between the two and use a paint marker to mark the location. Make sure the marks are in a place where you can see them when the transmission is in place.

[IowaEagle]

For balancing.

[carnuck]

It was actually a Mopar trick (one offset hole) for the V8s to ensure the weighted converter (which is balanced to the motor in Dodges and not the flexplate like AMCs) was in the right place. It shouldn't have been carried over, and @'87 they stopped that when they went to the XJ style starter. Ring gear offset also changed so the Ford style starter won't work.