Throwing this out to see what ideas I can get. I am putting a 4BTA into an '81 Ram 2wd. Truck weight should be around 3800. Since I am using low 27" tires I need an O/D trans. I have a TH400, but without O/D it'll turn over 2k at 60mph with the lowest rear ratio available. GearVendors are too much $$$.
The easy fix is a 47RH. I would need everything fom the block back, which I have in GM for the TH400. 700R4 isn't strong enough, from everything I've researched, a 4L80E is electronic, don't need those headaches.
Would it be possible to use a 5 or 6 speed from a Camaro or 'Vette? I'm not sure if they would handle the torque, which is about 265ft/lb stock, and I'm not going too big with the motor, mostly looking for mileage.
Anybody have any other ideas?

 

just use a 700r4 its a fine unit

 

Not really. Not even that good in a gasser. The low rpm torque of a diesel just tears them up. 4L80E is way better, basically a TH400 with O/D, I just don't want to spend $1400 for a stand alone controller.
I'm debating going 5spd, from a 1/2 ton Gm pickup. NV3500/3550. Trying to find out if it will bolt to my GM housing, and what I need for a clutch.
Of course if the GM parts sell, it will be a 47RH.

 

i would use the 4l80 and not worry about it