Transmission
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
Transmission
I was thinking a 80 vette L-48 came with a Turbo 350 Transmission, but have been told by a few other owners of the C3 years that they very between 350 or 400. Just wondering what would compliment a 383 stroker motor more effectively.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 6,350
Likes: 423
From: Seattle Area WA
I do not believe TH400s were available in 1980 unless someone added it. I believe your car should have a TH350 with a locking converter which was new for 1980. Granted TH400s are stronger, IMHO a well built TH350 with an upgraded torque converter will be fine behind the average 383.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,116
From: Crossville TN
The THM 350's are a relatively sturdy transmission; 400's were stronger. The 400's had to survive behind some pretty strong engines in late 1960's (427's for example); the 350's were downgraded in strength in some areas [to save money] and would have lower reliability if significant HP increases have been made. And, if it doesn't have overdrive, an upgraded overdrive tranny would be a good addition.
Racer
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 252
Likes: 0
From: Williamsburg VA
The THM 350's are a relatively sturdy transmission; 400's were stronger. The 400's had to survive behind some pretty strong engines in late 1960's (427's for example); the 350's were downgraded in strength in some areas [to save money] and would have lower reliability if significant HP increases have been made. And, if it doesn't have overdrive, an upgraded overdrive tranny would be a good addition.
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 12,696
Likes: 329
From: Scottsdale Arizona
I do not believe TH400s were available in 1980 unless someone added it. I believe your car should have a TH350 with a locking converter which was new for 1980. Granted TH400s are stronger, IMHO a well built TH350 with an upgraded torque converter will be fine behind the average 383.
almost.The only TH350s with lockups in 1980 were on the California 305s. the rest of the 80s got a regular TH350 with a 350 CI engine.
I think that the switch from TH400 to TH350 occured in 1977.
I also think that putting 600 HP through a stock 350 probably won't last long without some work. The same applies to a stock TH400.
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