Racing Transmission Brakes

The operation of the automatic transmission is based on a coordinated work of line of planetary gear sets. For proper gear selection, the pressurized fluid must actuate clutches and servos that hold or release certain parts of gear sets. This liquid flows through the intricate labyrinth of passages and valves in the valve body to reach the right actuators. The stock version of this system, which is sometimes called “the brains of the transmission,” is tuned for gradual acceleration and smooth gear changes favoring the driver’s comfort. In the racing environment, hard shifting and faster acceleration are preferred, so racers tend to modify their factory-installed valve bodies or upgrade their transmissions with aftermarket systems.

Racing transmission brakes kits are perfectly suitable for drag racing. Unlike the line lock system that keeps the vehicle stationary by locking front wheels while rear wheels are rotating to heat up the rubber, the transbrake is designed to make the gearbox “think” that both “drive” and “reverse” modes are selected on the shifter, which results in the transmission lockup. It allows the driver to keep his or her foot on the gas pedal to fully load the torque converter without risking to crawl over the start line before the green light. And when the time comes, the driver releases the button to transfer the full engine power to the ground instantly.

The transbrake system controls the flow of transmission oil in the valve body engaging both first and reverse gears while allowing the motor to rev at full throttle. When the flag is dropped, you just release the transbrake button and enjoy instant acceleration. It allows you to gain an advantage over other competitors who would be forced to waste precious seconds until their engines come up to speed. It is strongly recommended to upgrade internal components of your transmission to beef them up before using the transbrake system which basically tries to make the gearbox tear itself apart. Also, stock transmissions are designed for gradual torque increases and can literally snap when the transbrake is released.