Replacement 700R-4 in my 85

[InGaNow]

Hello from Atlanta....former member from Mt. Laurel, NJ. I just took a ride with the local Corvette Master Technician from Bill Heard Chevy here in Atlanta. He confirmed what I've been suspecting for a while now, I'm losing the 3/4 gears in my 700R-4. He says its time for a replacement. He said I could go with a GM replacement, or go with some after market transmission which he'd install. Has anyone replaced their transmission with either. GM has a three year, 50,000 mile warranty, but since I'll only put on maybe 1,000 miles in three years is that a big deal? There are many aftermarket trannys available from TCI, Monster, etc. Any input/advice would truely be appreciated. Thanks, Jim

[Rick and Arleen Ball]

Good Morning Jim!
Is your 85 stock?
If it is, and you don't race your Vette or run it hard, Go with the GM replacement.
Then again, if you have modified your 85 to Drag Race or even autocross you may want to go with a TCI Streetfighter set-up.
BUT, if you just do alot of normal cruising and some occasional spirited driving a stock 700 R4 will more than serve your needs.
Rick

[RichRog]

Rick,

Crossfire was in the 84, L98 in the 85.

[Bob Weiss]

If Stock 85-L98 go with the GM Unit OR have a good shop rebuild what you have!

Bob

[InGaNow]

Hi Folks, thanks for the input. If it matters, my 85 turned port L-98 is mildly modded with the following: forced-air induction, air-foil, MAS screens removed, hypertec stage 1 chip, adjustable fuel pressure regulator, under-drive pullys, tpis long-tube hedders, high-flow cat, low restriction mufflers, and 3:73 rear gears. Again, any input is truely appreciated as my economic stimulus check (and then some) is now ear-marked for the ole' 85. You guys are the best, Jim

[Rick and Arleen Ball]

Rick,

Crossfire was in the 84, L98 in the 85.
I stand CORRECTED!

[Tony B.96LT4]

Go with the aftermarket tranny. You have mods, you will want more mods, it's a Corvette thing!:D

[Plain Insane]

Jim: I have a heavily modified, supercharged motor in my 87. I currently run a 700R4 with some modified internal parts. The biggest problem with this trans is the pressure drop between shifting gears. This trans was only meant to handle 215-230 Hp. In my trans it is the original basket and case. I have a custom billet pump and rotor assembly from Calif. which keeps my pressures at 275lbs. My second gear band is wider than stock, extra clutches and plates as well as better servos, reverse manual valve body and an 2800 Trans Specialties converter. JG Transmissions in Willow Grove did mine and it has sustained 500t Hp. Another problem trying to change trans in the vette is that nothing fits and there is no crossmember. It sounds as though the mods you have are not too major. Best bet on a basically stock motor is GM with a Warranty. I can tell you this: the more Hp the more extensive work you will need on the trans. Generally stock trans doesn't like to shift over 5500rpm with pressure behind it.

[InGaNow]

Thank You all very much! I really appreciate your help. I'm taking a bunch of info I've pulled from the net, and all the club advice, to my technician tomorrow. Best Regards, Jim