I own an 84 TA 4bbl HO. I am going to buy a reconditioned 350 from a 91/92 TA. I do plan on keeping all the induction from the 305 (carb, computer, emissions equipment, ect), but I plan on adding headers and a cat back system. I know the 350's are like 245hp and 345lb/ft torque, and I know I'll lose some HP by keeping the carb set up. I think the headers and exhaust will make up for some of it. My question is, would the 84's 700R4 hold up to the power boost, especially in the torque area? I know the 91/92 TAs used 700R4s, but I think I heard they were beefed up sometime in the late 80's. Thanks for any replies.

Early '84 units had a 27 spline input shaft, late '84's had 30 spliners. The 30 spline shafts are considerably stonger than their smaller counterparts. Only way to tell is to remove the TC and count, as far as I know. In '87 they upgraded again, I think the valve body and some internal parts this time, and they upgraded again in '89. As far as I know, the '89-'92/3 700-R4's are strongest, so next time I dump money into a trans, it sure as hell won't be a 27 spliner! I haven't broke it and was told by the tranny shop that the tires would break loose before that would happen, but the risk is too great so I would say the 27 spliners work best behind mild 350's and hot 305 as long as you stay away from slicks.

OK. I had no real intention of doing any serious drag racing, except maybe a few "stop-light grand prixs." Mainly, this will be a daily driver on city streets and highways. Thanks for the info.

Would a '89-'92 700R4 be a direct bolt on to replace an '84's, or would modifications be needed? Thanks for any replies.

What differentiates between an "early" and a "late" '84 model?...