Was wondering if anyone has a recommendation for tranny. I am installing a 406 which will be around 500 hp and same on tq. it is stock 700r4 in there now and I will be reusing the stock converter. I know this won't hold up and the converter will lug a little anyway. But have heard numerous things on tranny selection. some say 200r4 some say th 400 and some say just get a pro built 700r4. I would like to keep overdrive just because it is still a street car. it will se little if any track time. but then again I don't plan on driving car a whole lot so really not that big of a deal. ANY HELP???

 

It depends on your driving habits. If you are more into freeway runs than a well built 700R4 is your best bet. But if this is more of a drag style car where light to light is the priority than a TH350 is probably in your best interest. If you go with the TH350 you can make it a little better for the occasional cruise by installing a set of numerrically lower gears. A proven good combo with the 350 is a 3.42 gear set and the 700 will allow you to run a 3.73 or higher gear set without sacrificing driveability. Either way, make sure the trans is built by a qualified professional (clears throat) that is familiar with all the "tricks" to make the trans of your choice work at its best and last.

 

Pro-Built 700R4 all the way. Get a decent non-lockup converter too. Around 2,400 stall would be good for your 400. TH400 is overkill for most applications and rather heavy, plus no overdrive. A TH350 is a good choice, but again no overdrive, and a 700R4 is basically just a TH350 with overdrive, so in terms of strength they are about equal.

 

really want to keep the 700 but definitely want something that will hold up and not have to spend an arm and a leg to get rebuilt. which price is definitely better on the 350 and 400 tranny.

 

The Pro-Built kit is $475, figure $300 for a converter (about the same regardless of trans, as long as it's a non-lockup). Then you need a competant installer. The TH350 and TH400 may be cheaper initially, but you have to factor in the additional gas, wear on your engine from turning higher RPM on the highway, and the install parts. A 700R4 is a direct bolt in, because these cars had them from th factory. The 700R4 is the way to go in my opinion.

 

definitely makes good sense. how much should it cost after the kit for the instal on parts should anything else be changed?

 

The beauty of Pro-Built's kit is that it is 100% complete. It even includes the Vette servos, the Trans-Go shift reprogramming kit, and the Beast sunshell. You also get fully upgraded pump internals 10-vane compared tot he stock 7-vane pump in a lot of older 700R4s.

Installation depends on the shop you use. I've seen prices for 700R4 rebuilds from $250 to $1,200.

 

just being curious how much would you charge to do it?

 

Send me a PM. Third Gen rules prohibit me from discussing the pricing for my services in open forums.