Is this just stupid, or can it work? When I replaced my 350 with a 455 I got a 200 4r with some level of assurance that it could take it (said it would take a 400-450 hp motor). Now I've got a blown trans and I'm not sure if it blew because the guy who set it up didn't know what he was doing (as far as the TV setup) or it won't take the power the engine is putting out. The question is, do I get it fixed, and properly setup for the car, or do I cut my losses and get something else. I know there are plenty of stronger trans's out there, I need to hear what you think about the 200-4R. A mechanic friend of mine, who by his own admission doesn't know a lot about these, seems confident that the big block is just too much for it. I don't want to spend another several hundred dollars to fix whatever gave out last time to find out... Thoughts?? Thanks!
200r4 Trans Hey Mick Do not give up on the od trans you need to find a knowledgable trans shop to build it properly!!! With the parts that makes it strong!!! Good Luck Nick White 69 Skylark 494/200r4 355eaton posi 12bolt 72 LeSabre 355/200r4 342 cruiser!! 70GS455 convert in progress!!!
I put one behind my engine (@450 HP or so) and everything is just fine so far. You do need to have it done by an expert though. When I researched before doing my car, four names came up as the best. Art Carr and PTS X-Treme in CA, CK Performance in New Jersey, and Janis Transmissions in Akron, OH. They all will end up charging the same in the end, about $2,500 or so for a trans that is built with all the good stuff. Then you'll spend another $400 or so on a converter. Then if you want an aluminum pan with special pickup, another $250 or so. Then you'll need another $200 or so to hook it all up if you get a lockup converter and all the brackets and cables to make it work right. I'm very happy with mine so far. My rpm's at 70 mph went from 3300 to 2300 on the highway. It's only been one season, but I'm very pleased. By the way, Janis Transmissions ended up doing mine as his shop is only 20 minutes from my house. Good luck.
I have a couple of k on my 200 with 400 + hp 455. Will not go back. It is so much better for street use. I do not plan on using drag radials on the car, that way tires are the safety valve. Keep working at it you will love it once it is right.
I have been wondering about a 200 for my car, but I just can't justify putting $2K into it! Are there any short cuts on making it a little stronger? At least strong enough for 450 hp? Maybe I would spend $1k, but not 2.
Thanks guys, but let me rephrase that a little; if I pulled a 200-4r out of a GN can I stick it behind my 455, or whould I have to spend another couple of grand to make it work? The seller advertised this one as having 'the stronger pump and a couple of enhancements, like what was in a GN' Thoughts? Mick
I REALLY towed with this idea, but eventually decided to go with a gearvendors od behind the THM400, mostly because they're pretty much bulletproof (as is the THM400), and a trans rebuild is WAY cheaper. Bottom line on a good 200-4R (w/ converter, TV cable, etc, etc) by a pro shop (which is miles away from here if I ever need anything) = $3000 Bottom line on a Gearvendors OD and rebuilt TH400 = $3000 So the costs either way is the same, but what has me swayed is simply the simplicity and ruggeness of the setup, plus the parts/service availability on the trans. just my 2 cents worth. Note: With the 200-R4, I'd have lower 1st/2nd gears, but I don't figure I'll exactly need them with a 3.08 rear, even in a heavy car.
Hey James what rpm's are you at 60mph.How are the shifts i have been thinking about this also.I have 400 sp with 2.75 first 3.31 rear thanks
Well, I haven't pulled the trigger on the OD yet - I clued in that a diamond ring for my wife of 15 years maybe should come first... Hopefully Santa will bring me one!
No way. Not for very long over 400 HP anyway. But it depends on how you drive it, slicks, etc or an occasional romp on the gas. Also, the TV cable IS VERY CRITICAL on these transmissions. The trans you described sounds like your average upgrades done on most any rebuild. Also, valve-body selection seems to be real important and any old valve-body can't be recalibrated to work in a HD application. No, I really don't understand why that is. If you call and ask PTSXtreme, they will tell you about any good builders that may be in your area. Or go to the trans section on turbobuick.com. CK is reasonably close to you I guess...
