I recently started thinking of buying a manual valve body for my truck two years ago.
Can't quite figure them out though.
Some are forwards and some are backwards... I guess some of the forwards have Reverse lock-out? Or is that something installed on the column?
Some come with transbrakes, some don't. But some have provisions for a transbrake in case you want to install one later? If I could, I wouldn't mind keeping the option open.
Some have engine braking, some have no engine braking in 1st, some have no engine braking at all. What's the differences in each of the designs? The ones with engine braking seem just as cheap as the ones without, so I'd assume theres a trade-off...
They also have automatic-manual valve bodies that shift automatically if you put them in drive but shift "full manual" for 1st and 2nd. Do these things have any advantage over a typical automatic valve body?
I think I'd prefer something with a forward shift pattern and, if possible, transbrake provisions and reverse lock-out. And if there isn't a downside, I wouldn't mind to retain engine braking, but I don't think it'd be worth it if you have to sacrifice some of the strength of the valve body.
And then, if I do get the valve body, would there be any other tranny modifications required to fully take advantage of it?
I'm also planning on getting a torque converter at the same time; would there be a difference in optimal converter design if I'm running a manual?
Thanks for any help.