Ok, I just re-enlisted and should get my bonus check in about 6 weeks so my new ZZ4/700R4 combo is so close I can taste it. My question though, Is it possible to use my original valve covers, air cleaner and accessories on the ZZ4? I've never actually done a motor swap before so what kind of problems am I likely to run into with things like the wiring harness and mount points? I am planning on keeping my original quadra jet for a little while anyways. I'm guessing that I'll have to keep the original computer control in tact as well. Will the sensors for the computer mount on the ZZ4 block or will I have to modify something? Can I just get rid of them without changing the setup to terribly much?

I'm considering the "700 Raptor" from http://www.transmissioncenter.net/highperf700r4.htm as my likely choice for a tranny. I found somewhere on the website where they offered install kits tailored to you specific year Corvette, including the new modified rear crossmember and modified driveshafts as well as all the other needed parts so it appears to be a solidly build and well packaged deal. Does anyone have experiance with this company or can you point me towards a better overall package to mate with a ZZ4?

The next and final question that I can think of at the moment... what rear gear ratio's are those of you who already have the ZZ4/700R4 combo running? I've had previously decided on something in the range of 3.54's but with an extra gear in the tranny and a lower first gear then my current TH350 has I'm not sure thats going to give me the best performance to gas milage ratio.

My goal, is to get my car into the high 12's or low 13's consistantly. Am I on the right track?




[Modified by SharkByte, 4:20 AM 8/15/2002]

 

For practical reasons the 700r4 will work best with a 3.53 + ratio rearend much better than a 3.08 rearend. At 75 mph you'll be turning about 2300 rpms with a 3.53 rearend, if you had a 3.08 you'd probably be lugging along about 1800 rpm at 70 and idling at 55 :)
I'm in the process of putting in a ZZ-4 at this time, you'll have to change the waterpump to a short water pump but other than that everything else should bolt right up. The 700r4 already has the right torque converter bolt pattern for the ZZ-4 flexplate so that shouldn't be a problem. The ZZ-4 manifold had provisions for a EGR so your California emmissions shouldn't be a problem.
The orignal type valve covers can be installed but you have to get adapters. GM sells them (very overpriced) but I've seen them other places for about $50 or $60. The are thin pieces of aluminum that have an O-ring seal around the bottom and cross pieces that bolt to the original center bolt valve cover bolt holes on the top of the heads. Then they have tapped holes for your original valve covers and gaskets.

 

You are already in California why don't you check out Steve Holmes at Bowtie Overdrives http://www.700r4.com It would certainly save you on shipping and long distance support if you picked the tranny up yourself.
In my opinion the TH200-4r is a better choice for a 'vette, the first gear isn't nearly as steep as the 700r4, so there isn't nearly as big a drop in power going from 1st to 2nd. Give Steve a call or send him an email, he will write you or call you back. He has really good prices on his stuff.

 

Check this out.
John
https://www.corvetteforum.com/techti...=167&TopicID=3