auto trans question

[78_oldcruiser]

ok this might sound like a stupid question but i got asked it today and couldnt give an answer cause i didnt know but here it is.

if i am running a 4 speed auto trans but using a 3 speed shifter is there a way to make the overdrive a push button?
if so how would that work with the shifter? would the shifter have to stay in 3rd when the overdrive button is pushed or would it have to be in N.

the reason i ask is a friend that i told about me trying to get a 4 speed lightning rod shifter wants to go 4 speed but his lightning rod shifter is a 3 speed and he was trying to keep from getting the 4 speed 1.

 

[dan2286]

ok this might sound like a stupid question but i got asked it today and couldnt give an answer cause i didnt know but here it is.

if i am running a 4 speed auto trans but using a 3 speed shifter is there a way to make the overdrive a push button?
if so how would that work with the shifter? would the shifter have to stay in 3rd when the overdrive button is pushed or would it have to be in N.

the reason i ask is a friend that i told about me trying to get a 4 speed lightning rod shifter wants to go 4 speed but his lightning rod shifter is a 3 speed and he was trying to keep from getting the 4 speed 1.

I am not sure if I understand what you are asking. I am pretty sure if you use a 3 speed shifter with a 4 speed, you will not be able to go into first. It's all done by a mechanical linkage, so I don't think any type of push button is possible.

 

[kingcolbert83]

You need the linkage if I am not mistaken.

 

[84cutspreme]

The only thing you can control via button on 200-4r or 700r-4 is the torque converter lock-up. Your friend may be talking about a newer computer controlled trans. Yea though the linkage is all controlled through cable and detent system. If you have a 3 spd shifter you just need an overdrive shifter (Base plate & Detent plate) and the cable.