1985 442 transmission

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rose350

Greasemonkey
Nov 4, 2013
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Illinois
I have an ‘85 442 that has lightning rods in it. Has anyone ever put a different transmission other than the 200-4r behind an Oldsmobile motor with lightning rods.
 

SupremeSpeed

G-Body Guru
Sep 29, 2016
596
802
93
GA
That is a good question, and although I haven't seen it, I'm sure some Olds gear head has done it. What are your plans?
 
Oct 14, 2008
8,806
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Melville,Saskatchewan
Are you thinking 4L80E or TH350/400? Personally, I would go 4L80E with that shifter with the full manual control and boost valve from Jake Shoe. Don't waste your time with the 700R4/4L60, 65 or 70E. None can handle any real power without a lot mods.
 
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L92 OLDS

Comic Book Super Hero
Mar 30, 2012
2,872
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West Michigan
I have an ‘85 442 that has lightning rods in it. Has anyone ever put a different transmission other than the 200-4r behind an Oldsmobile motor with lightning rods.

Yes. I have lightning rods in my 86' 442 with a 4L80E. The shift detent spacing on the lightning rod shifter is the same as the standard G body 4 speed shifter. Because of this you can use lightning rods with other GM 4 speed transmissions (4L60E, 4L80E, 700R4, etc.). Just be sure to use the correct linkage bracket on the transmission. I used the B&M kit below. Note the different mount positions for the cable.

BMM-75498_xl.jpg
 
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rose350

Greasemonkey
Nov 4, 2013
119
82
28
Illinois
Thanks for the info guys. I’m installing a built Olds 350 and I’m estimating it to be around the 400hp range. The cheapest I’ve found to have my transmission built to handle the power is going to cost me $3000 with new converter. Just trying to find a cheaper solution without losing my lightning rods
 

rose350

Greasemonkey
Nov 4, 2013
119
82
28
Illinois
Yes. I have lightning rods in my 86' 442 with a 4L80E. The shift detent spacing on the lightning rod shifter is the same as the standard G body 4 speed shifter. Because of this you can use lightning rods with other GM 4 speed transmissions (4L60E, 4L80E, 700R4, etc.). Just be sure to use the correct linkage bracket on the transmission. I used the B&M kit below. Note the different mount positions for the cable.

BMM-75498_xl.jpg
Do you have a part #? I’m guessing I’ll also have to change my crossmember and driveshaft?
 

rose350

Greasemonkey
Nov 4, 2013
119
82
28
Illinois
Yes. I have lightning rods in my 86' 442 with a 4L80E. The shift detent spacing on the lightning rod shifter is the same as the standard G body 4 speed shifter. Because of this you can use lightning rods with other GM 4 speed transmissions (4L60E, 4L80E, 700R4, etc.). Just be sure to use the correct linkage bracket on the transmission. I used the B&M kit below. Note the different mount positions for the cable.

BMM-75498_xl.jpg
Does the transmission fit in the tunnel ok without any modifications?
 

DoubleV

Royal Smart Person
Feb 25, 2011
2,156
406
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Medina Ohio
I think Vince Janis ( Akron OH ) could build you a 2004r for cheaper than $3k. Might wanna give him a call.
 
Oct 14, 2008
8,806
7,746
113
Melville,Saskatchewan
What did your 2004R cost to build? I figure $1500 in parts minimum to build mine to live behind my 403 stroker. The necessary billet foward drum is $400. Plus special tools and hours of my time and hoping I don't do anything wrong, I wouldn't trust the local shop. A 4L80E isn't a bolt in swap but it just needs hydraulic mods to live behind big power.
 
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