OK, I am torn as to which way to go in my 72 Malibu. The stock TH-350 that's in the thing is REALLY tired. I'm building a healthy 383 for street use and figure I should do the trans at the same time. I kind of like the idea of converting to a manual box, but not sure if it's worth the hassle and expense. I'm on a shoestring budget, so money is a big factor. So, assuming I stick with an automatic....should I go with TH-350, TH-400, or 700R4? I get the impression the TH-400 is stronger, but is it just overkill for what I'm doing? Will a TH-350 in it's stock configuration hold up to "spirited" street use, or should I plan on making some upgrades? I hear mixed opinions about the 700R4, so not sure what to think about that. Opinions please?
Thanks!
Chris

If you don't care about an overdrive tranny than either 350 or 400 would work good for you. Which ever you can get the cheapest. the 350 is a good tranny. There some guys out there running 10 sec 1/4's with them. But if I had my choice and the price between the 2 were CLOSE, I would go with the 400. On a budget, get the tranny with the best price.
Myself, I'm converting to manual..

If you don't care about an overdrive tranny than either 350 or 400 would work good for you. Which ever you can get the cheapest. the 350 is a good tranny. There some guys out there running 10 sec 1/4's with them. But if I had my choice and the price between the 2 were CLOSE, I would go with the 400. On a budget, get the tranny with the best price.
Myself, I'm converting to manual..

Will a TH-350 in it's stock form hold up OK to the extra power of a 383? The occasional drag strip pass?

Will a TH-350 in it's stock form hold up OK to the extra power of a 383? The occasional drag strip pass?

Not knowing how many miles it has and inside conditions could make a difference whether it survives or not. I would at least add a shift kit and a tranny cooler. A fresh correctly rebuilt tranny with shift kit would work..

Not knowing how many miles it has and inside conditions could make a difference whether it survives or not. I would at least add a shift kit and a tranny cooler. A fresh correctly rebuilt tranny with shift kit would work..

Great! That makes my life much simpler. :)
Thanks!
Chris