I have a 72 cutlass 442 convertible with a 455 engine and a Th400 tranny,323 rear end and also a mild cam ,I brought the car to the mechanic he said that the torque converter is bad because it was a rattle sound at idle and yes the mechanic is also my friend,So I trust him.I wanted to know what was the factory style torque converter that goes with the Th400 and is there better ones out there,Responds are greatly appreciated.He said also the tranny fluid is red.My other question is while the tranny is down should I have A tranny guy look at it or not.the only thing in NY its very hard to trust tranny guys Thanks again

 

Rattle at idle? Are the torque converter bolts tight?

 

Yes,They are all tight only makes the noise at idle in drive.Put the car in neutral goes away and the tranny shifts fine so far

 

If in fact you do find out its a bad converter check out the TCI and others in Jegs or Summit. If you want a little more pep get the TCI Saturday night special or the Break Away. I have 308s with a W30+ cam, slight lope. And I love the Break Away. Flashes nice yet not too much slip. Inspect that flywheel real good.
If you have the trans out why not freshen it up with new consumable parts and toss in a trans go shift kit...MAW. Nows the time!
The pump can make noise too when the vanes are wearing out. Thats why I suggest opening up the trans.