My dad gave me a1988 RS it has a 700r trans. but no motor He also has a chevy 400 with a 400 trans in a drag truck 1977 I'm 15 and the deal is he will help me with the work but I must find the tech info. My questions are should I use the 700r or the other tranny and what is nessesay to use either one. Dad says this will be a cool car for a 16 year old. please help our dream come true. I will try not to bother you guys too much. thanks in advance

Damian

 

I believe the 400 trans is stronger. If your getting up in horsepower this one will hold up better however I'm not sure what needs to be done in order to bolt up. If the chevy 400 is a small block all you might need to do is change the flywheel for the motor to bolt up to either one. Search the forum, I thought I found an article about something like this, or try thirdgen.org. They might have some info.

 

The th400 is a much better transmission and will be able to handle much more power, but it will take some modifications to make it fit. You will need a B&M shifter conversion kit, transmission cross member, and possibly a new driveshaft. The 700r4 will be fine so long as you are not making 450 hp.