So I got a line on an 82 chevy motor and trans for $350 it's a 350 backed by a 700r4. I know that there were changes done in 87 that will need to be done (10 vane pump, 30 spline input shaft etc..). This setup will be replacing the current 350/350 combo in there which is seriously wrongly geared for highway use.
I've got a 22k trans cooler to put in, I plan on getting a trans cooler thermostat as well. My buddy will be doing the rebuild for me at part cost so any upgrades need to go into my now blown away budget.
AFAIK, all the later parts retrofit to the early models. Biggest thing with 700's is they shift like E36 M3. To me a shift recalibration kits is mandatory with EVERY rebuild.
Oh and don't forget you will have to run a throttle valve cable.
I think there's a Vette servo that's a popular upgrade along with the B&M Transgo kit.
B&M Transgo kit and the Corvette solenoid is supposed to take care of the most common problems like the sticking throttle valve and the crappy shifts.
Also, if you weren't already aware, the 700r4 is longer than a turbo 350, and will require a shorter driveshaft.
200r4 transmissions are geared a little higher on the top end, and supposedly have a similar bottom end gearing. Car Craft put one in their Orange Peel chevelle, built by Art Carr, rated I think to 600 ft-lbs. That will give you even better highway cruising.
However, the 700r4 is alot more common, and therefore alot cheaper, and also require less work to be as strong.\
Just some food for thought.
if it wasn't such a pain to find a 200-4r trans with a chevy bolt pattern I'd probably use one. Gearing is much better for performance, but IMO the taller 1st gear of the 700r4 would be advantageous in towing. PLUS the 700r4 was used in the van chassis, so I should be able to just get a later model crossmember and driveshaft.
the 700r4 has a really steep first gear compared to any other GM auto trans, but 2nd,3rd, and 4th gears are pretty common. some people think the first gear is too deep, but if you've got a heavier vehicle or highway gears it really helps to get things moving.
the driveshaft will need to be cut about 3" shorter- something you can do at home if you have a mig welder and a way to make a straight cut. depending on what kind of a car it's going into, the crossmember will either just slide back and drill new holes in the frame or modify the perch where the mount goes.
the trans lines and shift linkage will hook right up.
