Toggle switch torq conv. lockup PWM

[M_a_t_t]

I know earlier transmissions used an on/off set up and so you can wire in a toggle (I believe MMusicMan has done atleast). My question is since my van (95) has the PWM engagement would wiring in a toggle to lock the converter hurt the converter/solenoid? I know start and end point would be the same, it's just how it gets there. I think it would be fine, but I don't want to cause any unnecessary damage. Getting a little tired of no overdrive and buying an aftermarket trans controller isn't an option right now.

[CopperFiremist]

I did it on mine, it will set a code pretty quick. I did it cause when it went into lock up the thing would shudder like no tomorrow, just clip the TCC apply wire and run two wires up to switch in the dash. Drove it that way for well over a year. Only thing is they produce more heat when not in lock up.

[M_a_t_t]

This is on the carb'd v8 so its already got the check engine light on. Glad to hear the success story.

[CopperFiremist]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fYzrIHcwFk

[Mmusicman]

My toggle switch is for a 700R4.
The 4L60e is electronically very different.

I typically only apply lock-up after I achieve speed in 4th gear.
It does not affect 1st and 2nd, but will work in 3rd if needed.

[dit]

when my low range micro switch went bad a few years ago I noticed that the trans would lock into what ever gear was selected. I decided to put in a toggle switch instead. Works great. Turns the 4L60 into a manual shift. I can lock it in third and floor it and it no longer has annoying high speed/high RPM downshifts on long hills and the TC seems to be locked. I do need to watch the trans temp gauge though and if I drive too long in that mode it will eventually throw a "low range switch malfunction" code.

[markmitch]

Just make sure you install a aux cooler to help with the excess heat. I installed one on my 89 and will put one on the 98 too.

[dcsleeper]

I think you're asking if you can put a switch in that solenoid line and force lockup without pwm.
no
the switch could only prevent lockup, not force it.

there is a mod of grinding a channel in the edge of the pwm solenoid that will defeat pwm. that's a good thing.

[Mmusicman]

dcsleeper: correct.

The older 700r4 uses simple 12v... the newer 4L80e uses PWM to activate the lockup.
You could probably put a toggle to "prevent" lockup.. but you can not send it steady 12vdc like the older models.

What would be the point anyway?

[M_a_t_t]

is the solenoid ground switched?