700R4 Manual Valve Body?

[Hotrod46]

I need some schoolin' folks.

I'm building a 23 T and I'm considering running a manual valve body in my 700R4. I had originally planned to use a manual trans, but the reality of fitting 3 pedals in that cramped space forced me to use an auto. Trouble is, I know next to nothing about full manual autos.

So far I found out that TCI and Art Morrison both sell valve bodies with full engine braking and converter lock-up in all gears. The TCI kit comes with a new servo. Transgo sells a reprograming kit that appears to do the same thing. Other than basic sales stuff, none of the websites go into great detail, though.

My trans is stock out of an early 90's Suburban and I would use a ratchet shifter in this setup. The engine will be a 350 and I'm hoping for about 300-325 HP. RV type cam. Gears will be 3.42, but that's not set in stone.

I'd like to use the stock internals if possible.

How difficult are they to install?

Any real world info or comments would be appreciated.

Thanks

Mike

[nitrowarrior]

Get a fully ready to go unit. I have used almost all the manufacturer's stuff in the manual valve bodies, trans brakes, etc. If you aren't comfortable with feeling like you'll get it right (and the bugs will present themselves), It can sometimes be a headache. Transgo comes to mind with "bugs", They do work well but have a tendency to be tougher to get it right unless you've done a few.

[Hotrod46]

Thanks Nitro, that's the kind of advice I need.

I've fooled with cars since I was a teen, but I've always left automatic transmissions to the pros.

Any brand you would recomend?

I don't really beat on my cars all the time, but will drop the hammer occasionally. Do you think the stock internals will hold up?

Thanks

[nitrowarrior]

If you're not romping constantly, you'll get good luck out of most major builders. Price issues might deter you from going ultra strong. TCI, Art Carr, Morrison, etc have good stuff. I have used Mike' Transmssions for years and have no failures and they give great customer service when questions and advice needed come your way. Their last tranny I bought as a 700r4 was almost 1600. I know it's a bit pricey but I needed no failure and the thing is still going strong. DO some pricing and get on the horn and push any supplier you wish to see how well they wanna deal and service your app.

[Jeff B]

Check out this website:[url]www.transmissioncenter.net this is probably the BEST folks to get 700R4 parts and tech advice from.They also have great How to build DVD's for any trans.