See post #15 for all your answers. And yes, while a performance converter isn't 100% necessary, it sure will add a lot to this combo. You'll never regret it. Just don't cheap out on it. If you don't spend 400-600 on one, you may as well run a stock reman from Dacco for 99 bucks= POS converter.
I'm leaning towards replacing the converter. What stall speed/manufacturer would you recommend? I was thinking around 2200 - 2400 stall but I have no experience with after market converters.