Dear George, Jerry, Walt, Jim, sjfd04 and mid-60s Buick tranny experts,
I am really not sure which way to go. My trans, I presume is a two-speed, will need a rebuild. That will probably cost me $1200.
Just to get some perspective the ST-300 is a real cruising transmission. Because it only has two gears there is less shifting (obviously) and the experience is less abrupt. If your goal is that sort of a car, that transmission was designed for the luxury drivers of the period and is extremely mellow. My Dad was sorry to find that the TH350 is considerably harsher when we switched to that in 1979
I always heard the overdrive transmissions were the way to go. If I need to change my rear diff ratio to accommodate a 700r or 200r, I may be better off sticking with the two speed? I have no experience this car as a driver, so I need some education and experienced opinions.
It isn't necessary to change the rear end ratio when going with say a 200-4R. I've got a 2.78:1 rear end in my wagon with the 200-4R. Of course I have an engine with tons of torque, but an A-body is a lightweight car. You could start out with the existing rear end ratio and change it later. The usual reason to go with a shorter rear end ratio is to get more power early for better acceleration. So it is desirable for some sorts of driving, but not necessary to get the up and running.
Cheers, Edouard
