Cost to swap in a 700r4 or a 480le?

[Robert82k20]

Sorry I am still a little green with a square body. I picked up a 82 k20 4x4 Lwb that was converted from a diesel to a sbc 350. I’ve noticed my transfer case has a slow leak. I also would like to have overdrive as well. I love driving this truck just would like it to be a little more driver friendly. So I am looking to see what it would roughly cost me to swap in a 4 speed trans a transfer case. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[SquareRoot]

Alot!

 

[yevgenievich]

All depends on sourced parts. Anywhere from $1k to $5k

 

[4WDKC]

Used 4l80s start around $600, You will need to a TCM or have it converted to full manual valve body..if possible. Shorten rear drive shaft, lengthen front shaft. Possible adpater, possible new tcase if you have a th350/700r4.

 

[Matt69olds]

If your plans are to keep the small block, and to keep the engine fairly mild, a 700 properly built shouldn’t be terribly expensive. The 4L80E is expensive to build, converters are expensive, the computer to run it is expensive, the list goes on. The 700 would be e bolt in easy swap, especially if you can find a complete donor vehicle.

 

[4WDKC]

If your plans are to keep the small block, and to keep the engine fairly mild, a 700 properly built shouldn’t be terribly expensive. The 4L80E is expensive to build, converters are expensive, the computer to run it is expensive, the list goes on. The 700 would be e bolt in easy swap, especially if you can find a complete donor vehicle.

you dont need to build them, stock they are rated to 450 tq.

 

[RoryH19]

The costs for the 4l80e far exceed the benefit if using for a mild sbc.
The 700r4 doesn't need a computer and just needs the linage to the carb.
The 4l80e will need a standalone pcm to shift unless you are swapping the engine too and will use that one.

Also you are comparing apples and oranges. A 700r4 and 4l60/65e have he same footprint.
The 4l80e is a heavy duty, larger computer controlled trans.

If you have a TH350 trans now, the 700r4 will mate to the transfer case and you will be able to use the same driveshafts.

 

[shiftpro]

I agree, the 4L80 is way overkill for a sb.

 

[Robert82k20]

Thanks for the help guys. I will probably look at both. I understand the 700r4 will probably due but I do like to have the assurance of the 4l80. Come spring I will explore both avenues. Thanks again.

 

[RoryH19]

Thanks for the help guys. I will probably look at both. I understand the 700r4 will probably due but I do like to have the assurance of the 4l80. Come spring I will explore both avenues. Thanks again.

Also look into having a 700r4 built up to be strong than stock.

 

[rpcraft]

Also look into having a 700r4 built up to be strong than stock.

It depends on your motor but unless you are building a 450+ horsepower motor a stock 700R4 rebuild with a good performance clutch pack and proper shift kit will work fine behind your small block. The key is to ensure that it is adjusted properly by a competent tech, that you add an auxiliary cooler, and also that your axle ratios make sense with the tire size you are using...

 

[RoryH19]

Right, I really think a 700r4 will be enough for a mild SBC.
Trans cooler and axle ratio will definitely play a large role.

 

[shiftpro]

The axle ratio is important because the 700 doesn't like to be 'lugged'. It is my understanding they overheat much quicker working at low rpms.
A torque monster big block twisting big tires will leave a 700 dead on the road.
Also the 700 is one of the more expensive builds, especially when beefing it up.
A tranny temp gauge is nice but in the real world it is a little useless, because when it shows your oil is starting to boil the damage is more or less already done. Keeping an eye on the gauge will help you learn what NOT to do and the trick is to NOT repeat it.

 

[Jrgunn5150]

The biggest advantage is the 700 can use stock driveshafts, a 4L80 usually won't be able to.

Controller is fairly simple IMO.

 

[shiftpro]

Controller is fairly simple IMO.

Can you please explain? What is simple, spending minimum $500 ..? I understand a diesel engine controller can me modded to work... but that kinda
stuff is over my little head.