HELP Lets talk trans options
- Thread starter DSPbuilt
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Compare the diameter of the output shafts of the 4L80E and the TH350 and move on. Just my opinion.
Sorry if it came out as "idk what I'm doing" kind of post.
This isn't my first go around. I've build more engines and trans than I can remember. Built a few turbo kits rebuilt a few "bolt-on" kits as well.
This was more of a venting/ sharing ideas kind of post. Ever since I moved up to NC, I don't get to talk and bounce Ideas off the race buddies anymore. I also want to start being a little more active on the forums and continue my build thread. I did want some feed back from the more seasoned guys on the TH350.
Things just snowball sometimes especially when I try to do the one and done type because I over do it. I know its normal but out of all my builds this is the one I that has sat the most between projects on it. I try to force myself that when I have a set task it has to be a weekend to complete so I can keep enjoying it. Obviously between work, side work, and kids that has gotten a little harder than it used to be. Now that I a garage and a little more useable time I want to get back into pretty steady again.
Wasn’t taken that way - no troubles.
My 4L80 is the most expensive part of my build unless I combine electronics and fuel system and motor upgrades. I’ve said it before, but I could’ve been better served with a TH400 and a 3.31 gear. But it’s also very nice to have a OD lockup with a 3.73 and cruise at 75 at 2700rpms.
I know the feeling about wanting to bounce ideas off someone. However it works out, there are a 100 different ways to skin this cat. Everyone has a preference and some of us learn from our mis-steps. I’ve tried following along on a couple of FB groups and that is difficult because of the crowd imo.
FWIW, I like the conversation and like seeing the results.
My 4L80 is the most expensive part of my build unless I combine electronics and fuel system and motor upgrades. I’ve said it before, but I could’ve been better served with a TH400 and a 3.31 gear. But it’s also very nice to have a OD lockup with a 3.73 and cruise at 75 at 2700rpms.
I know the feeling about wanting to bounce ideas off someone. However it works out, there are a 100 different ways to skin this cat. Everyone has a preference and some of us learn from our mis-steps. I’ve tried following along on a couple of FB groups and that is difficult because of the crowd imo.
FWIW, I like the conversation and like seeing the results.
Few thoughts from the old guy. Since your not going to be running deep rear end gears you really don't need overdrive for the street - with the combo your talking about you would turn about 3000 rpm @70mph and it's not a daily diver. That being said you could run a 350 trans - a TH 400 (equivalent to 4l80) - and if your serious about the drag racing a glide. Either would be a cost savings over 4l80 plus the savings of the non lock convertor. You are going to get what you pay for in a converter, I've seen some of the cheapy's w/ over 10% slippage.
The TH400 has an electric lockdown that could be set up with a switch mounted on the gas pedal like the 1970s GM trucks, or on the carb linkage with a suitable bracket.
I have a TH400 in my Cutlass (5.3L turbo LS, 3.25 gear Ford 9" rear). My goals are the same as yours; drive to track, race and drive home. I have 275-50-15 drag radials on it and it spins about 3000 rpm at 70 mph. Other than getting cr*ppy mpg on the highway (e70-85), its pleasant to drive!!
edit: fixed tire size from 55 to 50.
edit: fixed tire size from 55 to 50.
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