R series transmissions?

[jalopy43]

Hello to all. Are the 400r,700r etc. transmissions worth fooling with? And if so , how do you control them if you dont have a computer to go with it? I had seen a post of this topic, but couldn't find it. Anyone? thanks, Glenn

[Deyomatic]

I think you mean 2004R and 700R4. They are good trannies from what I've heard. I have a 700R4. There is a way to wire it up so that you don't need a computer. The most important thing is getting the appropriate bracket to setup the kickdown linkage. The kickdown on these is IMPERATIVE, not like a TH350. If you have it set up improperly on a 700R4 your tranny will be ruined in a hurry. I think Lokar makes brackets, but I got mine from Holley since I was running a Holley carb.
The only other advice I can give is to make sure you get one made after 1988 (I think) because they are the strong ones, and make sure it is built tough enough to take what power you have.
Also, don't even mess around with it unless you have LOW rear end gears. My rear was a 2.73:1 and it never built enough revs to make alot of vacuum while in OD. So, what would happen is that I'd be driving along pulling 12" of vacuum on the highway, and even if I just cracked the throttle to get more speed, the vacuum needle would instantly hit 0, and dump in a shit load of fuel, so I never got more than 14 MPG with my 350/700R4 combo. When I use it again, I'm going to shoot for around a 4.11 gear.

[jalopy43]

Thanks Deyo! I have a 3:07 rear.Perhaps I'll stick with the TH350,and save the 700r4.for a future project.I am more familiar with the old stuff anyway. Glenn