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Old Sep 2, 2004 | 07:19 PM
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I have a 1976 Corvette with a 350 automatic transmission, I'm wondering if it's possible to swap it with a 4 speed automatic so that I can have an overdrive gear for better fuel economy.
Is there a tranny that would install easily without making any major modifications?
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Old Sep 2, 2004 | 07:52 PM
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200r4
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 09:04 AM
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I installed a 4L80E in my 76. I had to make a cross member, shorten the driveshaft and install a computer to run it. I needed the strength of this transmission so it's probably overkill unless you're looking for a bulletproof transmission. I don't consider these to be major modifications but I guess some people may.
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 09:22 AM
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Originally Posted by jimvette999
I installed a 4L80E in my 76. I had to make a cross member, shorten the driveshaft and install a computer to run it. I needed the strength of this transmission so it's probably overkill unless you're looking for a bulletproof transmission. I don't consider these to be major modifications but I guess some people may.
How much did it cost you?
I've rebuilt the engine and added performance parts, so it has 300 or more HP now. So I'll probably need a stronger transmission.
Did you have to modify your exhaust for the new crossmember, I have headers and dual exhaust.
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 11:20 AM
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Go to the Buick GN sites they have plenty of information on the 200r4, and it's the way to go.....basically a mechanical bolt iin....and can take any reasonable amount of power/torque....

GENE
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 11:26 AM
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www.2004r.com
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 11:29 AM
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Thanks to everyone for the advice.
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 10:57 PM
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2000r4
This looks like what I'm looking for.
Has anyone here installed one? I'm just wondering if there's any surprises to expect, does the driveshaft and/or crossmember need to be modified?
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Old Sep 3, 2004 | 11:02 PM
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why would the 200r4 be better than the 700r4. i thought the 700r4 had a better gearing.

chris
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Old Sep 4, 2004 | 02:29 AM
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Old Sep 4, 2004 | 06:16 AM
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Originally Posted by trotter73
I have a 1976 Corvette with a 350 automatic transmission, I'm wondering if it's possible to swap it with a 4 speed automatic so that I can have an overdrive gear for better fuel economy.
Is there a tranny that would install easily without making any major modifications?
A friend had a 700R4 installed in his 78 Pace Car. Pretty straightforward according to him.
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Old Sep 4, 2004 | 06:35 AM
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700R4 , a much better Transmission !
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Old Sep 6, 2004 | 07:11 PM
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Originally Posted by 81VetteFreak
700R4 , a much better Transmission !

Will I have to change the drive shaft or will the stock one do?
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Old Sep 6, 2004 | 08:59 PM
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200 4R is as direct a bolt in as it gets. 700R4 needs new crossover and shorter drive shaft. If it's built right the 200 4R works great.
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Old Sep 6, 2004 | 11:08 PM
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Apparently the only weak point on the 200 that can't be fixed really well is the input shaft, but the 700 has a list of some 200 mods, and tons of parts to try for getting it to last a while, and I can assure you anything needing that kind of long list of parts needing mods or replacement is a POS right from the git go, and no reprieve......not worth it.....

GENE
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Old Sep 6, 2004 | 11:53 PM
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I am running a Stage II 700R4 from www.BowTieOverdrives.com - they are the same people as www.700R4.com and www.200R4.com
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Old Sep 10, 2004 | 07:00 PM
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Go for a different transmission for the reason you listed but you certainly don't need to get rid of the TH350 on account of stength. The TH350 will be able to handle your 300 HP. Good luck.
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Old Sep 10, 2004 | 11:18 PM
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My tranny's shot, so I figured I'd upgrade.
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Old Sep 13, 2004 | 12:33 PM
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Originally Posted by redwingvette
200 4R is as direct a bolt in as it gets. 700R4 needs new crossover and shorter drive shaft. If it's built right the 200 4R works great.
So I won't need to shorten the drive shaft or use a different crossmember if I buy the 2004r? Also, can the stock shifter be used?
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Old Sep 13, 2004 | 02:27 PM
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Originally Posted by trotter73
How much did it cost you?
I've rebuilt the engine and added performance parts, so it has 300 or more HP now. So I'll probably need a stronger transmission.
Did you have to modify your exhaust for the new crossmember, I have headers and dual exhaust.
Sorry for the delay in answering your questions.
It was very expensive and I have sidepipe exhaust so no mods were needed.
Unless you're looking to save a few buck in gas, I'd keep the T350 and save yourself the trouble and expense of a transmission swap.
Good luck to you.
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