Re: Ultramatic normal behaviors

Posted by Ross On 2023/10/18 6:48:17

There is only the torque convertor's 2.5:1 multiplication to assist takeoff, so you are never going to leap off the line in high range. Because of the limited torque multiplication, two factors loom large in how an Ultramatic feels: first is rear axle ratio. Your car has a 3.23, the 52 a 3.54 or possibly even a 3.9. That makes a big difference in feel. Second I have found that when these cars are in any way off tune the decreased low speed torque is very noticeable and you have to give a lot of gas. That may come from low compression, late timing, or even how the throttle linkage is adjusted.

Of which, direct engagement speed is a function of throttle opening played against road speed. If the linkage down to the trans is adjusted "high" the trans will upshift later. Of course this is also true if you are giving more gas. 35 is rather high for a normal upshift so you might want to shorten the pull rod to the carb a bit.

According to contemporary roadtests, the cars were of course quicker if you started in low and shifted to high, but not as much quicker as one might think: somewhere between 1.5 and 3 seconds on the 0-60. But the feel is very different especially at takeoff.

Over in Studebaker world many people are incensed that the V8 cars start in second gear in normal driving and complain about takeoff. In actual point of fact none of my cars has the slightest trouble keeping up with the stoplight derby, but neither will you get the burst of acceleration at the outset that makes you feel the car is powerful. Even a Henry J will snap your neck if you play it right but the sensation is very short lived.