Author Topic: Transmission recommendation  (Read 3027 times)

Offline HerpDerp1919

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Transmission recommendation
« on: February 27, 2016, 02:43:16 pm »
Ive got a 79 thats got the 350 and th350 transmission. However, I would like to be able to cruise on the highway without revving the heck out of it. Its a 4x4, and I do some very light towing, meaning my 16ft boat (maybe 1400lbs total with the trailer), two atvs, and the occasional car as Im the only one on my family with a truck. What would y'all recommend?

Offline zieg85

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    • 73-87 GM squarebody extended cab and conversions up to 91 R/V series
Re: Transmission recommendation
« Reply #1 on: February 27, 2016, 03:28:46 pm »
What is your current gear ratios?
Carl 
1985 C20 Scottsdale 7.4L 4 speed 3.21
1986 C10 under construction
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Offline Captain Swampy

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Re: Transmission recommendation
« Reply #2 on: February 27, 2016, 03:40:15 pm »
And what size tires? What's the predominate speed limit in your area?
1987  350TBI 700R4  4X4  4.56 gears  33" BFG All Terrain


http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=32209.0

Offline HerpDerp1919

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Re: Transmission recommendation
« Reply #3 on: February 27, 2016, 06:16:02 pm »
i'm 99% sure I have 3.73s. The main speed is 55, but id like to be able to 65-70 without it scrreaming. I'm gonna be putting some 33's on it here in a couple weeks

Offline K20Detroit

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Re: Transmission recommendation
« Reply #4 on: February 28, 2016, 11:25:29 am »
For going 70, you'd be looking at a 700r4 IMO.
I have a 700R4, 33" tires, I think 4.10 rear gears (missing RPO sheet).
With my diesel, it does pretty good in the 70MPH area. Revs aren't high at all.

For towing; supposedly the 700r4 is a weak trans in factory form. I haven't seen it first hand.
Either way, when hauling or even just driving slow, I pull it out of overdrive until I get up to speed. Otherwise, 4th shifts in early and slows acceleration.
I'd recommend a corvette servo upgrade, it costs about $30 maximum and firms the shifts.

Offline HerpDerp1919

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Re: Transmission recommendation
« Reply #5 on: February 29, 2016, 09:33:29 pm »
Thats what I was figuring was an R4. When I do tow id just pull it out of OD like i did in my 96 Silverado.