[Marcus]

I was just wondering if there is any difference in shift quality between a reverse pattern full manual valve body versus a full manual forward pattern version. I have heard (prehaps erroneously) that the former is quicker for some reason. Also does engine braking offered with some full manual valve bodies slow forward shifting speed. They may be unrelated but I have heard that reconfigeration of the valve body to accommodate forward pattern shifting or engine braking sacrifices forward shifting to some degree. I'm considering either TCI's or Turbo Action's full manual vavle bodies for the TH350 and want the fastest shifting vavle body possible. Thanks

[Chazmac]

Reverse pattern valve bodies for T400 or T350 are for drag racing only.
They do not have engine braking. Because of this the trans will freewheel in 1st or 2nd when you are not accelerating. When you stab the throttle again (like in traffic, or screwing around on the street) the trans shock loads the roller clutch or sprag. This will cause failure at some point in time. It is the same as doing neutral drops. VERY BAD. If you are street driving the car, buy a forward manual valve body. They shift hard and fast and will keep the trans from freewheeling on decel. I am sure there are plenty who have used reverse patterns on the street; I NEVER advise or recomend this path.
Most street cars (slower that 10 second 1/4 mile) will not see any difference in the trans or car speed when using a forward manual valve body. Their trans will live longer though.

[brainsboy]

lol, well now I know why my C-4 does that. Thought it was something in my rebuild.

[Marcus]

I talked to both TCI and Turbo Action this morning. Their consensus is that there is no appreciable difference between valve bodies just a matter of preference and streetability. Thanks