THE 700R4/4L60: EVOLUTION OF EFFICIENCY

The 700R4 (later designated 4L60) transmission, introduced by General Motors in 1982, marked a revolutionary step in automatic transmission technology by combining performance with fuel efficiency. This four-speed automatic transmission was engineered as GM's response to increasing fuel economy demands while maintaining the durability expected from their powertrains. Weighing approximately 155 pounds, the 700R4 featured several groundbreaking innovations including a lockup torque converter, overdrive fourth gear (0.70:1 ratio), and advanced electronic controls in later models (post-1993 4L60E).

The transmission's development history shows continuous improvement through its production run. Early units (1982-1986) faced some reliability challenges, but significant updates in 1987 strengthened the input shaft, reinforced the third/fourth clutch pack, and revised the valve body calibration. These improvements transformed the 700R4 into one of GM's most versatile transmissions, capable of handling up to 350 ft-lbs of torque in stock form.

Modern aftermarket support has further enhanced the platform's capabilities. Today's upgraded 700R4/4L60 builds regularly incorporate:

  • Hardened input shafts

  • Carbon fiber clutches

  • Billet servo pistons

  • Updated sun shell designs

  • Heavy-duty sprags

  • Enhanced valve body calibrations

These modifications can push the transmission's tolerance beyond 500 ft-lbs of torque while maintaining the efficiency benefits of the overdrive gear ratio.

700R4 Automatic Transmission Rebuild (700R4)

  • 700R4 -transmission-rebuild-package-chevy-gm-automatic-transmission-service

    Carry Out 700R4 (No Torque Converter) $2,350 Starting Price

    Our professional 700R4 rebuild includes complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly with premium components including new clutches, steels, bushings, seals, bands, and gaskets. Each transmission receives our heavy-duty upgrade package featuring hardened input shaft, updated sun shell, reinforced 3-4 clutch pack, and high-capacity filter. Perfect for shops and experienced installers requiring a reliable, overdrive transmission. (Core exchange required if not providing your own transmission). Includes our 12-month/12,000-mile limited warranty on soft parts.

    CARRY-OUT REBUILD - Starting at $2,350+

  • 700R4-transmission-torque-converter-rebuild-package-complete-service

    Carry out 700R4 (with Torque Converter) $2,550 Starting Price

    Building on our premium rebuild package, this service includes everything in our carry-out rebuild plus a remanufactured torque converter (OEM type stall standard). Package includes the fully rebuilt transmission, new torque converter, heavy-duty filter, and all required gaskets and seals. Ideal for complete drivetrain upgrades requiring both transmission and converter replacement. (Core exchange required if not providing your own units). Backed by our comprehensive 12-month/12,000-mile warranty covering rebuild labor, soft parts and converter.

    CARRY-OUT WITH CONVERTER - Starting at $2,550+

  • "700R4-transmission-complete-installation-service-professional-rebuild

    700R4 (TURN KEY) Pull it | Tear Down | Rebuild | Install $2,750 Starting Price

    Our flagship service includes professional removal and installation, premium synthetic fluid, complete vehicle integration, and thorough testing. This comprehensive package features our premium rebuild with converter, professional installation, all necessary parts and fluids, plus complete diagnostic testing and TV cable adjustment. Each installation includes pan inspection at 10,000 miles and fluid level verification. Backed by our full 24-month/24,000-mile warranty covering soft parts and labor.

    TURN-KEY INSTALLATION - Starting at $2,750+

    (North Carolina Taxes are Additional)