Rebuild 700r4???

[klaussk]

I have an 85 k10 stepside. It has a 305 and a 700r4 tranny. It has 96000 miles on it. I was just wondering what peoples opinion are on these trannys and why. I have a friend who says he can help me rebuild it. There isnt any issues with it at the moment but I would like to change the overdrive gear if that is even possible. Id like to go down the highway doing 70 at a bit of a lower rpm ( for mpg reasons). Id also like to replace anything thats starting to look worn and parts that are known to break. Id also like to put a shift kit in it. I had one on my camaro and freakin loved it haha.I want to know if these trannys are worth it. I need to have an overdrive tranny also. Thank you.

[DustyRusty]

A lot of people don't like the 700R4 for various reasons.  The early versions had some problems and aren't the best according to what I've read.  The later ones are better candidates for upgrades.  I don't remember the date between early and late trans.  I'm sure others can chime in.  What rebuild are you using?  Powerblock TV did a recent episode on a rebuild using a Monster Transmissions kit for ~$800, IIRC.  Don't remember if a shift kit was included.  Maybe someone can find the link to that particular episode.

Rusty

[square81]

I have a 700r4 in my truck and like it. Works great for me. I was hesitant at first because I like the turbo 400 but I needed overdrive due to the 3.73 gears I have. Rebuilt mine and put a shift improver kit , grabs rubber in second when im on it.
 Like Rusty had said there are some years that are crap and others that are good. I think 87 and on were good ones. Do your homework and you will find lots of info on them. One of those Kits from monster work good I installed one for a buddy in a camaro and wow it rocks.
But if your just doing one for your daily drive rockauto has rebuild kits too. 

[klaussk]

I havent started rebuilding it yet. I am just trying to research it some.Ill have to look up to see if one from an 85 is good or not. Thanks guys.

[bake74]

     I have a couple of friends that work in transmission shops, and talked to a owner of anouther shop that builds racing transmissions.  A 700r4 set up properly for the engine you have and driving style you have can last as long as the th350 and th400 trans in these trucks. 
     At least that is what all 3 of them said.

[klaussk]

The most power the tranny will ever haveto deal with is around 450. thats if I ever build the 383 I want.

[bake74]

     Well a 700r4 beefed up right would be able to handle that easy, and when you don't want to get on it, your gas mileage would improve.