I found a local shop that is willing to let a 200-4R go for cheap. I would like to bolt it into my 1965 Skylark. My car currently has the 300 4V engine and ST-300 trans, with the shifter on the steering column. What will I have to look fo in the way of any problems, and will I be able to use the stock shifter linkage ? Thanks, Jackie
you have to set up for a T-V cable to the trans and be very particular about getting it adjusted right. Slode the crossmember back and drill new holes in the frame. The shift linkage will work, but the gates in the steering column won't line up right or the neutral safety switch either. You'll like the improvement in drivability a bunch
The 200R4 does not have a vacuum modulator or kickdown cable. It uses a TV cable(Throttle-valve). The adjustment of this cable is critical because it controls shift points, shift feel, kickdown. Adjust it wrong, and you can waste the trans in no time. The cable usually attches to the throttle linkage at the carb, and there are ways to retrofit it to earlier carbs.
You need the August 2000 edition of Hot Rod. They show this swap in detail for a 1967 Skylark. Its what I used. You can get the article from Hot Rod's website after paying a small fee.
Search this board --- we have talked about this swap at length.... I think I have that article on my computer somewhere... Let me know if you want it, and give me a couple of days.........
You will also need to decide on the converter lock-up "method" :Smarty: i.e. a switch on the dash... or the setup that only allows lock up in fourth at cruise. It uses a vacuum switch and you change a pressure switch on the valve body. Look around ATI's website and www.tvmadeez.com for more info. Of course those are not the only places. There are several styles for sale. In all, its an easy swap: the driveshaft works, the speedometer cable hooks up, the 200R4's coverter lines up, the shift linkage hooks up. The detents don't line up as said above, but you have P.R.N.OD. and D. Some can get to the lower gears based on the way the column is rigged, but it isn't necessary. go for it.
Thanks to all for the help and advice. Will the ST-300 torque converter work in this application, or should I buy a new one ?
I'm running a 200-R4 behind the 455 in my 65 Skylark, all this was done by the previous owner. The engine is from a 71 Electra and the Quadrajet has a different arm to hook up both the throttle and the TV cable. I haven't been able figure out just where the arm cam from, maybe a 80's Qjet?? I can take a picture of my setup and send it if you need an idea of what parts you'll need to hook it. Larry70GS is correct in that you will fry the 200 in short order if you don't get the TV adjusted correctly. I have the factory floor shift and full console in mine and it all looks perfectly stock. I generally run about 65-70 with mine and IF I keep my foot out of it, 20 MPG is not out of the question, but 17-18 is avg. My miles are mostly freeway miles, so your mileage will vary. Keith
