The 700R4 is a four-speed automatic transmission that features a 30 percent overdrive in the fourth gear. The transmission was launched by GM, and is sometimes referred to as Hydramatic.
GM 700R4 transmissions were developed in 1982 as a replacement to the TH350. The main reason for the new design was to create an automatic transmission that was better on fuel economy. At the time, the 700R4 was used on trucks and rear-wheel drive vehicles such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Suburban, Corvette, Camaro, and Impala.
GM 700R4 Transmissions Are the Best Ever Produced
When the 700R4 was first released, it did have minor problems. Just five years later, the transmission had undergone several improvements and gained a more favorable reputation. In 1990, there was a name change to the 700R4 – the 4L60. It was essentially the same transmission, and in 1993, the 4L60 became electronically controlled instead of hydraulically controlled, which is where the name 4L60“E” comes from.
Even though the 700R4 transmission isn’t made new these days, they are still considered to be some of the best ever produced. The improved fuel economy and gear ratio in first gear were the hottest selling points, providing drivers with good acceleration when stopped at a stop sign or stoplight. Also, the gear ratio was good for off-roading.
Benefits of the 700R4
Let’s look at a few facts about the 700R4, and why this may be the transmission you need for your hot rod.
- Constructed of cast aluminum.
- One of best overdrive transmissions.
- Improved fuel economy.
- Lower first gear ratio.
- 30 percent overdrive.
- 23.4 inches long; 155 pounds in weight.
- Holds 11 quarts of trans fluid.
Custom Building a 700R4 With Innovative Technology
By choosing Gearstar to build a custom 700R4 for your needs, we will discuss some of the ways to make the trans work for you. This transmission is easily overheated because it is used in heavy-duty pickup trucks, as well as cars that are driven hard such as the Corvette or Camaro. Overheating is one of the main causes of transmission failure, and we don’t want this to happen to you.
If you plan on taking your car out with the 700R4, we may recommend a cooler that can be installed with the transmission. Even if you purchase a car with an old 700R4, the trans can be rebuilt with the latest upgrades to make it stronger and more durable.
Gearstar builds GM 700R4 transmissions by hand, only using premium products and one technician from start to finish.
