BBR's 83GT - 552 BBF version 3.0 (at least)

[TheSilverBuick]

If you are considering a turbo, I'd consider some 3.00-3.25 gears and a non-overdrive transmission to get away from the manual shift. Unless of course you are using a GM ECU that will allow the automatic feature in the 4L80e. A mild camshaft will net some decent mpg's too.

Flat hoods are nice too

[TheSilverBuick]

Or I bet you could get one of these made for a manual 4L80e



(I've also heard the 4L80e doesn't use the conventional shift pattern of other OD transmissions, so it takes a 4L80e specific shifter. I could be wrong though, much like the cam deal...)

[squirrel]

I would go for a 727 trans because they're cheap, easy, and light, and kind of bolt on. But I'm stupid that way.

[Russell]

I love the flat hood idea. What does it take to put a 4l80e to a 5.7?

[BBR]

SB Mopar to GM trans adapter plate I believe.

A 727 is a great trans, but I want OD for sure and manual shifting an auto is no biggie to me.

[STINEY]

I'm liking the direction this is veering off into.

[DanStokes]

My trans in Truck is 727-based with an OD and lock-up. They can be made bullet proof but a good converter is spendy. But if you could find a Dodge Diesel in the salvage yard that might be a possibility. No clue on the required adaptors.

Dan

[STINEY]

Don't the mid-'90's V8 Jeep Cherokees use a OD version of the 727?

Similar to how the 4l80e is a derivative of the TH400?

[squirrel]

the 518....etc.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TorqueFlite#A518_.2846RH.2F46RE.29

[BBR]

Diesel trans is an A618 (47RH) or the later electronic derivative, (47RE).

4L80E = huge aftermarket
A518 = not so much

Really the A518 is a decent trans, but still suffers from the same achille's heal the 727 does. That being the propensity to uninstall itself with violence on the next pass if you ever roll the sprag, by doing an improper burnout or by breaking a u-joint, diff or axle. (see blog item with the Aussie Valiant trans explosion).

Besides, if I had a GM trans, it would complete the Big Three Trifecta. Ford body, Mopar Engine, GM transmission. It would have to potential to piss everybody off, not just one brand. I am an equal opportunity offender. lol Hell I could just call it an American Motors Mustang.

[TheSilverBuick]

lol Perfect Trifecta

[Deaf Bob]

Weird you think 727's are weak.. Seen them in the arena behind slightly built 440's and some pretty extreme 400's (the 400's take overheating better than 440's) Have seen and heard them hitting F-R at throttle and keep going with broken axles .. Since the lever that gors to the throttle is not hooked up (bending cars change adjustment) they say to wire it at 3/4 open.. I'm kinda digging the Big 3 Muffstain..

[TheSilverBuick]

Me thinks you don't dead hook a derby car in the next round.

[DanStokes]

My trans needed a bit of upgrading to approach "Bulletproof" status but the trans guy says he'll stand behind it forever - and he's done a ton of 'em. But there are a bunch of tips and tricks to get 'em right.

I DO like the Trifecta approach, though. How about an AMC rear axle? And SOMETHING from Packard and/or Hudson to round it out.

Dan

[BBR]

Google: mopar 727 explosion and look at the pics.

Better yet, watch this:

Driver was injured, broken foot, 3rd degree burns to his face and hands and a piece of shrapnel to the eye.