Automatic transmission upgrade

[machmeter62]

Gentlemen;
I purchased new in '78, a Chev Van 30 (one-ton dually). I still have the vehicle, but want to upgrade the three speed auto transmission, or go the "Gear Vendor" method, or other? The existing transmission has had some hard use with towing, and still has less than a total of 20,000 miles on it. This was the last year for that vintage GM engine in that era, with the 400 CID small block, with the siamesed cylinder walls! I had the existing trans rebuilt, after it failed, due to my abuse of over stressing it! I don't know the model of the auto trans in it, but it's the original one. The engine still runs very strong.

The abuse of the engine/trans., was the result of towing a large boat through mountainous terrain for over a couple of decades. The vehicle has less than 20,000 original miles, and has been stored for the last 12 years.

With all the new technology, with these new automatic transmissions, what direction should one pursue for trouble free performance, with less than 9000 GVW. I would like the new multi-speed transmission, for mileage- improved design- gas mileage, etc; the rear-end has a 4:10 to 1 ratio, and cruising at 60 mph yields 3000 RPM too!

Economics could be a factor also, and if one decides on a recent trans from a junk yard, what would be the best option there? Gear Vendor's would be close to $3000 for the mod. (Thanx in advance for all your suggestions.)
LEE

 

[Cami]

I don't know what transmission you need, but I suggest a cooler for whatever one you get.

 

[Raw Dodge]

Im pretty sure Jet Performance used to sell a 4L80E with stand alone controller for under $3000.00.The 4 L80E is plenty strong for what you have there,in fact it will handle a modded 454 pretty easily....I havent checked in a while on them...the 4L80E would give you lockup and OD,which will reduce your rpms quite a bit,from 3000 down to 2250 or so!

 

[machmeter62]

It came standard with a large transmission cooler located behind the front grille; I just exceeded its towing weight limits on the long up-hill mountain grades during those hot summer months.

 

[davo727]

Here is one aftermarket controller from PCS for the 4l80e

PCS - Powertrain Control Solutions - Transmission Control

Heres another one from TCI- $700

TCI Auto 377000 - TCI Transmission Control Unit Systems - Overview - SummitRacing.com

It requires a throttle position sensor to work, you can rig one up yourself with a GM sensor or you can buy there sensor deal for $200.

TCI Auto 377400 - TCI Remote TPS - Overview - SummitRacing.com

 

[davo727]

On my automatic trucks I run 2 large coolers and a transmission temp gage which is how I knew that one trans cooler is not enough when towing heavy.

 

[Diamondpilot]

The issue is cost here. Anything is possible but matching a tranny to the engine is going to be tough due to the difference in the components era. I would not think this could be done for under $3000 and you can buy a lot of gas for that old truck before you would break even. Especially if you are only putting 20,000 miles on a 32 year old truck. Thats only 625 miles per year.

My suggestion is leave it alone. Change the tranny fluid out and install a large cooler.

Chris

 

[Cami]

I forgot....what about rebuilding AND throwing a shift kit in while you're at it?

 

[machmeter62]

Cris,
Thanx for the reply. I know the financial recovery will never pencil-out, but I think in the distant future, we will see fuel in a few years, approach $5.00/ gallon too. China has tied-up recently, all the mayor oil fields that committed to them in Africa, as the car market grows in China. It's that supply and demand factor, that will continue to elevate the price of fuel.

It's that feeling of wasting power when looking at the tachometer turning 3000 RPM, when much less power/RPM is really needed?

I am also going to look at converting a recent late model compatable trans to my van to get more gear ranges, with the transmission seeking the most efficient gear. I could probably have the axle ratio changed for a lot less too, but I am still looking at all the options, since I no longer tow with it. Gear Vendor would be at least $3000 installed?
LEE

 

[machmeter62]

I forgot....what about rebuilding AND throwing a shift kit in while you're at it?

That would rule out my side-kick's driving skills (wife)!