What transmission came in a 1987 Chevy R10?
The most common transmission in a 1987 Chevy R10 was the Turbo-Hydramatic 350 automatic, with the 700R4 four-speed overdrive automatic available on V8-powered models; manual transmissions were offered only on a subset of configurations.
The 1987 Chevy R10 sits in the Chevrolet C/K full-size pickup line. Transmission choice depended on engine, drivetrain (two-wheel drive vs. four-wheel drive), and the specific trim or option package. While the TH350 was the standard automatic for many base rigs, the 700R4 overdrive automatic became a notable option behind V8 engines during this era. Manual transmissions were less common on these trucks, but they did appear in certain configurations.
Automatic transmissions commonly found in 1987 R10 trucks
Below are the automatic transmissions you might encounter on a 1987 R10, depending on engine and drivetrain configuration.
- Turbo-Hydramatic 350 (TH350) — 3-speed automatic; standard in many base and mid-range R10 models.
- Turbo-Hydramatic 700R4 — 4-speed overdrive automatic; available with V8 engines and certain option packages; introduced in GM trucks around this time and became a common upgrade behind larger engines.
- Turbo-Hydramatic 400 (TH400) — 3-speed automatic; less common on typical 1/2-ton R10s, but may appear on heavier-duty configurations or specific regional/option setups.
In practice, the TH350 covered the majority of standard, two-wheel-drive R10 configurations, while the 700R4 was a popular upgrade for V8-powered builds. The TH400 was more associated with heavier-duty variants and is less likely on standard 1/2-ton pickups.
Manual transmissions that could be found in 1987 R10s
Manual gearboxes were offered only on select configurations of the 1987 R10, with availability varying by engine and drivetrain. The exact manual transmission installed depended on the truck’s build sheet and production options.
- 4-speed manual transmissions (common in various GM light-truck applications of the era, such as the SM465 family) — found on certain base or specialty configurations.
- 5-speed manual transmissions — a rarer option, limited to specific builds or markets.
Because manual transmissions were not universal across all 1987 R10 trucks, buyers would need to verify the original equipment on a given vehicle through the VIN or build sheet to confirm the exact gearbox.
Summary
For most 1987 Chevy R10 pickups, the standard transmission was the TH350 three-speed automatic, with the 700R4 four-speed overdrive automatic available on V8 models. Manual transmissions existed on a limited number of configurations, and the particular choice could vary by engine, drivetrain, and option package. If you’re researching a specific vehicle, check the build sheet or VIN-derived options to confirm the exact transmission.
What years did Chevy use the 700R4 transmission?
Chevy used the 700R4 transmission from 1982 to 1993. In 1993, the transmission was replaced by the electronically controlled 4L60E.
- 1982–1993: The 700R4 was used in a wide variety of GM vehicles, including the Corvette, Camaro, Caprice, and G-series vans.
- Input shaft variations: The transmission's input shaft had 27 splines from 1982 to 1985 and a 30-spline shaft from 1986 to 1993.
- Transition to 4L60E: In 1993, the 700R4 was succeeded by the 4L60E, which used an electronic control system instead of a mechanical one.
How much is a 1987 R10 worth?
The value of a 1987 Chevrolet R10 varies significantly based on condition, mileage, and specific features, but generally ranges from approximately $7,245 for a project vehicle to over $68,200 for a rare, exceptionally well-preserved example. A 1987 R10 in good condition with average specs typically sells for around $12,250, while more desirable or customized versions can command prices in the $20,000 to $40,000+ range.
Factors influencing value
- Condition: A vehicle's condition is the most significant factor. Rusted, damaged, or high-mileage trucks will be worth less, while pristine, low-mileage trucks are worth substantially more.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally means a higher price. For example, a 1987 R10 with just under 22,000 miles sold for nearly $30,000, notes Cars & Bids.
- Modifications: Highly desirable modifications can increase value, but incorrect or poorly done mods can decrease it.
- Trim and options: Higher trim levels like the Silverado will be more valuable than base models.
- Rarity: Some models, like a Step Side pickup, can be rarer and more valuable, says Classic.com.
- History: A clean history without accident damage or title issues will also command a higher price.
Price examples
- Project/Poor condition: Around $7,245
- Good condition/Average spec: Around $12,250
- Well-maintained/Desirable: $20,000 - $40,000+
- Rare/Exceptionally well-maintained: Over $68,200
What is the difference between a 1987 R10 and a C10?
1987 R10 (C10) R10 is the same as a C10, Chevrolet switched the letters because of something having to do with the new body style. In 1987, they were called Rs and Vs instead of the usual Cs and Ks. R10 meaning 2wd, V10 meaning 4wd.
What transmission came in a 1987 Chevy Silverado?
With the exception of an Edelbrock Performer Series camshaft and intake manifold and a 3-inch full-bore exhaust system, the 5.7L Chevrolet TBI V-8 was left virtually stock. The same went for the four-speed GM 700-R4 automatic transmission and NP 208 transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range ratio.
