What transmission is better 350 or 400?
When it comes to choosing between the Turbo 350 (TH350) and Turbo 400 (TH400) transmissions, car enthusiasts and mechanics alike often debate which is the better option. Both transmissions were developed by General Motors and have been widely used in various vehicles. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, making the choice largely dependent on your specific needs and vehicle setup. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Basics of the TH350 and TH400
The TH350 and TH400 are both automatic transmissions, but they were designed with different purposes in mind. Here’s a quick overview:
- Turbo 350 (TH350): Introduced in 1969, the TH350 is a lighter, three-speed automatic transmission. It was designed for smaller, lighter vehicles and is known for its efficiency and versatility.
- Turbo 400 (TH400): Released in 1964, the TH400 is a heavy-duty, three-speed automatic transmission. It was built to handle higher torque and is commonly found in larger vehicles, such as trucks and muscle cars.
Both transmissions are highly regarded for their durability and performance, but their differences make them suitable for different applications.
Key Differences Between the TH350 and TH400
To determine which transmission is better for your needs, consider the following factors:
- Weight: The TH350 is lighter than the TH400, making it a better choice for vehicles where weight savings are important, such as drag racing cars.
- Strength: The TH400 is stronger and can handle more torque, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications or high-performance vehicles with powerful engines.
- Size: The TH400 is larger than the TH350, which may require modifications to fit into certain vehicles.
- Efficiency: The TH350 is generally more efficient, as it has less internal drag compared to the TH400. This can translate to slightly better fuel economy.
- Cost: The TH350 is typically less expensive to purchase and rebuild, making it a more budget-friendly option.
These differences highlight the importance of matching the transmission to your vehicle’s intended use and performance requirements.
When to Choose the TH350
The TH350 is a great choice if:
- You’re building a lightweight vehicle or a street car.
- Your engine produces moderate power and torque.
- You’re looking for a cost-effective transmission option.
- You want a transmission that’s easier to install in smaller vehicles.
Its lighter weight and efficiency make it a popular choice for many enthusiasts who don’t require the heavy-duty capabilities of the TH400.
When to Choose the TH400
The TH400 is the better option if:
- You’re working with a high-performance or heavy-duty vehicle.
- Your engine produces significant torque, such as in a muscle car or truck.
- You need a transmission that can handle extreme conditions, such as off-road or towing applications.
- You’re less concerned about weight and efficiency.
The TH400’s strength and durability make it the go-to choice for vehicles that demand maximum performance and reliability.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the TH350 and TH400 comes down to your
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best transmission to use?
That depends on your needs and driving habits. If you want something simple that's easy to use, go with an automatic transmission. If you want better fuel economy, consider a CVT. And if you prefer the traditional driving experience, go for manual transmission.
Is a higher speed transmission better?
The lower gears offer faster acceleration, while the higher gears are tuned for better fuel economy and cruising at higher speeds with lower engine RPMs.
Is a 400 transmission good?
Most four-wheelers respect the TH400 for its strength. Its only knocks are the long housing (which is still shorter than the newer OD automatics) and the lack of a fourth (Overdrive) gear. This beloved automatic made its first mass-production appearance in '64 Cadillacs and Buicks as the Super Turbine 400.
What is the weakness of the 700R4?
Problems With the 700R4
Early 700R4 transmissions came with the less desirable 27-spline input shaft. Later units, those produced after 1984, featured 30-spline input shafts. In high-power applications the lower spline count can be more likely to break.
Which transmission lasts longer?
One of the reasons manuals tend to last longer is because drivers can control the amount of shifting. If, however, you get a little trigger happy with the gear shift, you're compromising potential fuel economy and the lifespan of the transmission.
What is the difference between TH350 and TH400?
The TH400 is the stronger transmission. It's built heavier and larger than the TH350, with heavy-duty applications in mind. Even later versions of the TH400 continued to focus on handling high-torque, high-horsepower input.
How much horsepower will a TH350 handle?
The Stage 1 TH350 is rated up to 450 hp. Those seeking something a little stronger can check out the Stage 2 version (PN PA35102) that holds 550 hp and retails for $1,500 with a real world street price of $1,175 from most vendors.
What engines bolt up to a TH350?
The front face TH350 is natively compatible with either the Chevrolet 90 degree “Small Block” & “Big Block” patterned engines, including the V6, V8, I6 & Iron Duke I4.
What is the difference between t350 and t400 transmission?
The 400 is significantly larger, heavier and turns more of your precious horsepower into transmission fluid heat. It was designed for big blocks in trucks so it can handle higher torque stock for stock but the 350 has all the aftermarket support to take it to the same levels.
Is a TH400 better than a TH350?
The TH400 is the stronger transmission. It's built heavier and larger than the TH350, with heavy-duty applications in mind. Even later versions of the TH400 continued to focus on handling high-torque, high-horsepower input.
