350 TPI/700R4 into '86 442

[xitabl442]

HI,
I am in the process of swapping a TPI/700R4 out of a '90 Vette into my 442. I have almost everything figured out, but I think I will need a drive shaft. Is there a drop in drive shaft that I can junkyard? Or will my existing drive shaft still work? I am not expecting it to, but I thought I'd see if anyone has done it before. I already have a source on having one built, but was looking to save some cash.
Thanks in advance,
David

 

[Gbodyolds]

have your driveshaft cut down it sould only cost you about 100bucks. If you want a direct fit drive shaft get one from a 67-69 Camaro with a Turbo 400.

 

[Gbodyolds]

ok forget what I just said, I just re-read your post your 442 should have an 8.5 rear which would mean a camaro drive shaft will be 1" too long, If you had a 7.5 rear the camaro shaft would be a direct bolt in.

 

[87AeroSS]

I believe with a 700R4 you will need a custom driveshaft, and I the other thing I would be concerned with is the trans mount location.. I personally would switch to a 200- 4R. The 200-4R--with its multi-use capabilities--will mount to any standard bellhousing-equipped GM engine (Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile) and is an extremely efficient transmission when it comes to putting the power to rear wheels. The 200-4R features less internal rotating mass and a lower inertia level that will not rob your high-performance engine of precious horsepower. The 200-4R, I believe, has better gear ratios With less of a dropoff between 1st and 2nd.

 

[Gbodyolds]

Just noticed this on MCSS thought you might be interested
The crossmember you will need to install a 700R4 in a G body is for sale here
http://www.montecarloss.com/ubb/ultimat ... 5;t=006485

 

[xitabl442]

Just noticed this on MCSS thought you might be interested
The crossmember you will need to install a 700R4 in a G body is for sale here
http://www.montecarloss.com/ubb/ultimat ... 5;t=006485

Thanks, but I already have the peices to make my own. Thanks, for the link to the site though, I had been looking for it, but was not having any luck.
I plan on keeping my drive shaft intact incase I reinstall the motor and transmission down the road. My car has only 54K on it and I got it from the original owner.

 

[Jman]

How is the swap coming along?

I'm not sure about the drive shaft you need. I did the swap with the 5spd and had to shorten my drive shaft 3 inches.

 

[xitabl442]

It's going a little slower than I'd hoped. I really wanted it in and done in time for the Woodward Dream Cruise, but I don't see that as a possibility anymore.
I have the motor painted and most of the parts ready to go back on, but sinceI missed my deadline, I will probably do more detail work on them first. I still need to put a set of electric fans together and wired, and install the harness on the motor. I plan on cleaning and detailing under the hood before the eng/transmission go in.
All this stuff takes me longer than I think it will, and I want to keep the car driveable as long as I can, atleast until the new eng/transmission are assembled and ready to install.
David

 

[Jman]

sounds good. are you taking any pics along the way?

 

[xitabl442]

That sounds like a good idea, I think I will. I'll see if i can get some of the car up soon.