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Th700 transmission

(16 products available)

About th700 transmission

Types of Th700 Transmissions

The Th700 transmissions come in multiple types that perform different functions and are compatible with different types of vehicles.

Th700-R4

The Th700-R4 was the first model in the Th700 series that offered overdrive for increased fuel efficiency. It offered a 4-speed setup with an electronic lock-up torque converter for better resource use. It was suited for light to medium loads and could be employed in cars, SUVs, and light trucks.

Th700-4L

The Th700-4L was a variation that included hydraulic controls for easier installation and less electronic dependence. The features remained the same as the Th700-R4, broadening its application to vehicles with less electronic integration. It could be used in mid-sized trucks and vans.

Th700-5

The Th700-5 was the first 5-speed model that offered a better range of gears for different driving conditions. Unfortunately, this model didn't gain popularity, and not much information exists about it. However, the type was made for better performance in passenger vehicles.

Th700-6

The Th700-6 was a later model in the 700 series with a 6-speed setup. This model offered complete performance and efficiency. It is, however, not widely available for a broad market grab. The transmission is mainly suited for higher-end passenger vehicles who want an upgrade from the older models.

Th700-4L80E

The Th700-4L80E is a variation of the Th700-4L offered with an electronic 4-speed automatic torque converter lock-up. It was the heavy-duty version of the Th700 series that could handle higher torque and more rugged conditions. It was designed for commercial vehicles, RVs, and heavy-duty trucks. It features a durable design and can easily handle heavy loads, making it ideal for people needing a workhorse transmission.

Durability and Materials of Th700 Transmissions

The durability of the Th700 transmissions is closely related to the different materials used in their making.

Aluminum Alloy Case

The Th700 transmissions have an aluminum alloy case that is light for easy driving but also strong and resistant to corrosion. The case houses internal components and bears the weight of the entire transmission system. It ensures that there are no performance sacrifices for the lighter weight.

Steel Gears

Steel gears are the primary materials used in the Th700 gears. They are generally made from premium quality steel alloys for superior strength and wear resistance. The steel used undergoes heat treatment for added toughness and a longer lifespan. The steel gears are also highly resilient to torque and high power, making the Th700 gears durable.

Billet Torque Converter

The billet torque converters are made from high-strength billet steel. This provides enhanced durability over stock converters and reduces the risk of slippage under heavy loads. This means better resource use and higher efficiency. The material makes it possible for the engine's power to be transmitted effectively to the transmission, enhancing overall vehicle performance.

Reinforced Bands

Th700 transmissions feature reinforced bands that are made of high-carbon steel or Kevlar composite materials. These materials improve the bands' tensile strength and heat resistance. The bands are resistant to stretching or breaking even under extreme driving conditions. This provides a longer lifespan for the transmission and reduces the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements.

Better Friction Clutches

The better friction clutch materials are generally made of steel with organic or Kevlar-coated materials. These materials help distribute the frictional force evenly, which helps in reducing wear and tear on the clutches. It also helps boost the transmission's functionality by ensuring the power is smoothly delivered to the wheels.

Iron Pans

The iron pans in the Th700 transmissions are more durable and better at heat dissipation than aluminum pans. They are typically used in heavy-duty applications or high-performance vehicles. The pan helps protect internal components better than the aluminum pan, which is very useful.

Scenarios for Th700 Transmissions

The Th700 transmissions are useful in a wide range of scenarios from light-duty operations to more rugged and high-performance ones.

Everyday Driving

People looking for a reliable and efficient transmission for daily commuting enable the Th700 transmissions to be used in this scenario. The Th700-R4's overdrive gear ratio makes it fuel-efficient for highway and city driving. It is smooth to shift, making it comfortable for normal driving. Everyday drivers looking for reliability, comfort, and efficiency in their transmission will enjoy the Th700 transmissions for normal driving conditions.

Towing and Hauling

The Th700 transmissions are great for towing and hauling light to moderate loads. The Th700-4L's hydraulic controls allow easy maneuvering when towing vehicles or trailers, making it an ideal option for weekend warriors, RV, and horse trailer towers. The lock-up torque converter helps provide more torque and reduces wear on the transmission to make it more suitable for this kind of work.

Off-Roading

People off-roading with vehicles equipped with Th700 transmissions can be more confident that their Transmissions can handle rough terrain, thanks to reinforced bands and better clutch materials. The transmission provides better torque and control, making it suited for crawling and navigating obstacles. The Th700 transmissions are good for moderate off-roading, which is not too extreme of a condition for the transmission.

Muscle Cars

For muscle car owners who want a blend of modern performance and classic reliability in their transmissions, the Th700 transmissions are suited for them. The 4-speed automatic transmission provides a good blend of acceleration and fuel economy for the vehicle, keeping it sporty but not wasteful. The transmissions are designed to handle high horsepower while shifting smoothly and giving muscle car enthusiasts what they want in their vehicles.

Commercial Use

The Th700-4L80E is designed for commercial use, especially in mid-sized to heavy-duty applications. The transmissions are durable enough to handle daily hard work, whether in delivery vans, service fleets, or light construction vehicles. The electronic controls provide smoother shifts and better fuel efficiency, making it ideal for cost-effective commercial operations.

How to Choose Th700 Transmissions

There are multiple factors to consider when choosing a particular Th700 transmission, as explained below.

The first step when choosing the suitable transmission is to assess the vehicle type and drivetrain configuration. This is important as different transmissions are compatible with different vehicle types. The Th700-R4, for instance, is better suited for light-duty cars and SUVs, while the Th700-4L80E is for heavy-duty trucks and RVs. This 4L80E conversion kit is also a great place to start for people who intend to use the Th700 transmissions in a vehicle they plan to convert.

Once the vehicle type has been established, it is time to consider the engine power and weight. Higher horsepower engines will require stronger transmissions that can handle the torque. The Th700-4L80E can handle extreme conditions since it has heavy-duty components and stronger gear ratios. The Transmissions will also work in lighter vehicles with standard engine power for regular use.

Transmission control compatibility is another key consideration. The Th700 transmissions vary in control types, with some needing electronic controls and others needing hydraulic controls. The Th700-R4 is better suited for vehicles with electronic controls, while the Th700-4L is for mechanical transmissions. This makes the choice of transmission control an easy one depending on the user's vehicle system.

Driving conditions also come into play in the choice of transmission. Consider the drag-and-drop conditions of the vehicle for a more rugged transmission if one takes the vehicle off-road or hauls frequently. The Th700-4L80E has reinforced bands and heavy-duty clutches suited for this work. For daily commuting or highway driving, the Th700-R4 is better, as it is more fuel-efficient.

Finally, budget and maintenance should be considered. The Th700 transmissions are all reasonably priced, with some having higher-end components that make them more expensive but better performing. The Th700-R4 is an easy installation for DIY projects, and the maintenance requirements are less frequent than for more professional ones.

Q&A

Q1: How does the Th700 transmission compare to its contemporary models?

A1: The Th700 transmissions have several contemporaries, but none offer the performance and flexibility of the Th700. The 4L60E is often compared for its similarity. The Th700-4L had hydraulic controls that made the vehicle easy to drive. The 4L60E, on the other hand, featured electronic controls for better precision. The Th700 was stronger than the AOD from Ford, which suffered harshness and a slippery drive. The Th700 held its own as the more robust option for light and heavy-duty applications.

Q2: What are the common upgrades for the Th700 transmission?

A2: Common upgrades to the Th700 transmissions are for those looking to boost performance. Better torque converters are fashionable upgrades as they enhance power transmission without slippage. High stall torque converters provide better acceleration by raising the engine speed at which the converter begins to "lock up." This makes more power to the wheels, even in lower gear settings. HD valve body spacers enhance fluid pressure and improve gear shifts. Bumping up the performance are also aftermarket shift kits that provide firmer shifts for better power use.

Q3: What are the known issues with the Th700 transmissions?

A3: One of the known issues with the Th700 transmissions is inadequate cooling, which leads to overheating. This is especially problematic in heavy-duty or towing applications that require the transmission to work continuously. Heat causes damage to clutch plates, bearings, and other internal components, leading to transmission failure. This is often accompanied by slipping or rough shifting. Another common problem is worn bands and gears. Since the Th700 is an older model, many are exposed to more worn and tear problems.

Q4: Does the Th700 transmission come with a warranty?

A4: Earlier GM model Th700 transmissions came with a three-year, 50,000-mile warranty from the company. After the consolidation, many aftermarket versions came with varying warranties depending on the manufacturer and the model's usage. The warranty could be voided if aftermarket parts were used in the transmission. The warranty also does not cover normal wear and tear, which is often the case with old model vehicles like the Th700. They are very prone to wear and tear, making it harder to cover under warranty.