Bow Tie Overdrive Experience

[Skyguy007]

I have a '69 BB with the original TH400. I've read the literature about swapping in a 700-R4 to get an overdrive with a lock-up torque converter and a lower (higher ratio) first gear. Bow Tie Overdrives looks like the way to go for different levels of transmission bullet-proofing and the rest of the parts needed to do the swap. I'd be interested in hearing from anyone who has experience with BowTie or just doing the swap. It looks like a $1,500.00 job that will totally improve the top and bottom ends of my Vette's performance curve.

 

[page62]

I bought a Level 2 200-4R from Bowtie. It works great and shifts firm. The Level 2 tranny is definitely a performance unit -- I had no idea when I bought it. It's obviously been blueprinted and shift kitted to make it tough!

The only problem I've had are miscellaneous minor fluid leaks -- pan, seals, etc. But I tend to blame that more on the "rubber hammer" mechanics that installed the tranny more so than Bowtie.

 

[page62]

One more thing. This is by far the BEST performance mod you will ever make. It's an incredible feeling going down the highway at 85-90 mph (sorry, Officer) with the engine humming softly at 2200-2300 rpm!!!

 

[Skyguy007]

Thanks for the encouraging info. What's the difference between the 200-R4 and the 700? Bowtie's web links for the 200-R4 have never worked, so I've had a hard time finding out more about what they offer.

 

[page62]

The 200-4R was used on cars like the Buick GNX and Monte Carlo SS. It's not as common or well-known as the 700-R4.

In terms of performance, the 700-R4 has a very low first gear ratio, which helps off-line performance. The 200-4R is more similar to the TH350/TH400. Bowtie recommends the 700 if you have a low rear end ratio, such as a 3.08, and the 200 for higher ratios -- 3.55 and above.

The 700s are known for weaknesses in the 3-4 clutch packs, but built-up units often have this deficiency corrected.

Send an email to Bowtie. There's an inquiry form on their website. They'll send a detailed reply telling you everything you'd need to purchase, and which transmission is best for you.

By the way, no matter what you do, get the TV Made EZ kit. This cable is extremely sensitive to adjustment, and is critical, too!

 

[KANE]

I love my 700R4, and I swear by the durability of the "thunderbolt" tranny.

 

[Scott81]

Here's my 700r4 swap , I had the tranny done locally but the rest was from BTO. If you have a decently built motor the vacuum switch from Painless wiring won't cut it, especially with a big cam, I switched my lockup to the BTO switch. I also got the convertor from them when I did a motor swap, I went hi-performance on that. And as said already get the TV-made ez kit. I have a little info on the 383 swap page about the TV made ez.

With a big block why not go with a 5 speed manual?

 

[StingRayCrazy]

Page 62,

What’s the horse power limits for the 200-4R? I know they come in GNX's but I was just curious. My Twin Turbo will put 600 BHP or so to the ground and the 200-4R sounds interesting. I currently have a Pro TCI Glide but I would like to have the overdrive capabilities of the 200-4R. I also like the fact that the first gear is not as steep as the 700. Turbos like to be loaded. Did you make any mods to your cross member or did it fit? It looks to be very close to a Glide in dimensions. :crazy