Ok I did:flipoff2:
Then why would he convert to a shittier tranny? Why not rebuild the 're? What a waste of time completly stripping all the electronic speedo/harness, pretty much everything electricly related, guages, flush the fuel tank. Just to have a gutless louder Pos? If you have any smog req. Tons of paperwork if at all possible to even smog? I say just find another tbi 350. If you want something better, sell the CUCV and buy a 454.
How is the TH400 a "shittier" tranny than the TH700R4? Every single 700R4 that I have ever owned took a shit in under 80,000 miles, even on 100% stock vehicles. Never had a problem with a TH400.
I already have a 454 powered suburban, and I don't like the 6MPG. If I get 15MPG out of the diesel, I'll be happy.
I picked up the CUCV for $1300 because the body is torn to crap, but it runs and drives great.
The electronic speedometer, the computer that makes it work and the reluctor ring in the NP241C don't work right now, so I am already running an aftermarket speedo with a custom made pickup. Running the xfer case from the CUCV will allow me to run a normal electronic speedometer pickup, and is a stronger xfer case.
Needs a fuel tank anyways.
Tranny is cracked on the bellhousing.
Xfer case is cracked down the side where all the 241C's crack
The TBI 350 has trouble running on the highway under 2300RPM on 37's with the 4.10 gears I have now. Hell, one of my other suburbans (2wd) that is stock and in very good condition can't get out of it's own way on the highway.
The CUCV has the 60 front and a 14 bolt rear, both with lockers already, so why not run them anyways.
Did I mention I got the truck for $1300?
So all in all, I'll have about $2000 in the swap and end up with a strong drivetrain. Not gonna be a fast truck, but strong.
But assuming your aero drag plus rolling drag is as modest as mine, 1800 at 65 ( 1650 at 60 ) will net more MPG at 60 than gearing for 1800 at 60.
1991 suburban rolling brick lifted 4" on 37's isn't "low drag" in any way, shape, form or dream.
So all in all, if I drive 65MPH for now and look for an overdrive tranny or overdrive unit for the TH400, it looks like it'll be just fine.