TV Cable Adjustment

How to Adjust the TV Cable on a 700R4 or 200-4R Transmission

The TV (throttle valve) cable is the lifeline of a GM 700R4 or 200-4R overdrive transmission. It tells the transmission how far you are into the throttle, and that controls shift timing and line pressure. In this quick tech tip, Ryan from Gearstar Performance Transmissions walks through the initial TV cable adjustment, one of the most common questions our tech department gets.

Initial TV Cable Adjustment, Step by Step

  1. Mount the TV cable and route it up to the carburetor or throttle body. The adjustment is easier with two people.
  2. Have a helper in the driver's seat push the gas pedal to wide open throttle.
  3. Pull the TV cable until it is banjo-string tight.
  4. With the pedal still held at wide open throttle, set the barrel nut on the end of the cable.
  5. Have your helper release the pedal so the throttle returns to idle.
  6. At idle, check that there is still some tension on the TV cable. If there isn't, fine-tune it with the adjuster push button or, on a Lokar cable, the adjustment nuts.

Why TV Cable Adjustment Matters

A TV cable that is set wrong causes shift problems on a 700R4 or 200-4R, with shifts that come too early or too late. Worse, a cable that is set too loose won't build enough line pressure, and that can burn up the transmission. Get the adjustment right before you put miles on it.

Need a TV Cable or Help With Yours?

Gearstar carries Lokar TV (kickdown) cables for the 700R4 and 200-4R. If you have a question about your Gearstar transmission, installing the TV cable, or checking your adjustment, call our tech department at 330-434-5216 or contact us.