The TCI flexplate was torqued to factory specs with 76 lb-ft using Dan's ultraprecise digital torque wrench. | 
The new converter was slid onto the input shaft,... | 
...bolted to the flexplate, and we were back in business.... |
...At last, Dan bolted up our BMR torque arm and aluminum driveshaft. | 
After breaking in the trans using TCI's fluid, we decided to give the Royal Purple Max ATF a try. Drag racers rave about Royal Purple's high quality, efficiency, and protection-so it was worth a go. The contents of the 5-gallon jug were transferred to a smaller container to make it a little easier to pour through the TCI dipstick. | 
After we returned to the track, the heat and humidity of August got the better of the Formula. We managed to get a handful of passes in between rainstorms, but not even a low 13-second pass was in the cards. The first pass of the day yielded a new best 60-foot time of 1.90, but the weather and a malfunctioning ABS system held the 'Bird to a 13.84 at 96.5 mph. As the cool air of fall nears, we'll have this suspension figured out, and we'll keep you updated. |