The 700R-4 is a GM 4 speed overdrive automatic transmission. The first model 700R-4 transmission appeared in the US around 1982. Unfortunately the transmission developed a bad reputation, as early models were prone to failures. The transmission was redesigned in 1985 and again in 1987 when a larger sprag was introduced.

All of the 700R-4 automatic transmissions fitted to Holden Commodore V8 engines are of the later design.

The 700R-4 is available with different bell housing bolt patterns. The Chevy V8 version, will bolt to Chevy V8 petrol, V8 diesel and Turbo bolt pattern Holden 308 engines.

The 700R-4 utilises a lock up torque converter for improved efficiency. The engine ECM controls the lock up. To perform this operation the ECM requires a speed input from the vehicle speed sensor or VSS.

The Commodore 700R-4 automatic transmission was replaced by the 4L60-E in the Holden 1993 VR model. The transmission is electronically controlled by the engine management computer.

The 4L60-E has a magnetic induction speed sensor (VSS) which monitors the main output shaft speed. The speed sensor information is used by the computer to determine the gear shift points. Marks 4WD Adaptors manufacture a special adaptor kit for the gear driven transfer case (MFK354E) that will allow the 24mm diameter speed sensor to be retained.

The V6 commodore and Oldsmobile 3.8ltr EFI V6 engines were also fitted with 700R-4 and 4L60E transmissions.

The 700R-4 and 4L60E both have an overall case length of 594mm/23.4", when coupled to the adaptor housing (160mm/6.3"), this gives an overall length of 754mm/29.9".

The 700R-4 and 4L60E both have the following gear ratios: 1st 3.06:1 2nd 1.62:1 3rd 1.00:1 4th 0.70:1

The 4L60-E 6 bolt transmission was introduced into the late model VS and VT engines it is also fitted to the factory super charged engines.

The transfer case adaptor housing replaces the automatic transmission extension housing. The adaptor housing then fits to the transfer case using the original Toyota bolts. The housing has mounting provision for the Hilux/4-Runner hi/low lever.

The automatic transmission will need to be disassembled. The main output shaft is removed and replaced with one supplied in the adaptor kit. This output shaft has a new spline to connect to the Hilux/4-Runner coupling sleeve found on the main shaft of the 5-speed gearbox. Our kit that replaces the Hilux 4-speed gearbox is supplied with a new coupler sleeve.

The output shaft in the kit is supplied on an exchange basis. (Australia only) If your shaft is not supplied with the original order a deposit of $110 will be charged. Change over shafts that are pitted, rusted or heat damaged will not be accepted. The deposit will be refunded when a suitable shaft is received at our factory. Postage or freight is the responsibility of the sender.

When fitting a Holden V8 or Chevy V8 engine and TH700/4L60E automatic transmission in place of a Hilux 4-cylinder and 5-speed gearbox, the transfer case will need to be relocated rearwards. Drive shaft modifications will be required. This also applies to vehicles previously fitted with a 4-cylinder and 4-speed gearbox.

When fitting a Commodore V6 engine and TH700/4L60E automatic transmission in place of a Hilux 4-cylinder and 5-speed gearbox, drive shaft modifications will not be required. However if a 4-cylinder and 4-speed gearbox is being replaced the transfer case will need to be moved back to the same position as a 5-speed.

Marks 4WD Adaptors manufacture crossmember relocation mounting kits to suit vehicles previously fitted 4 or 5-speed transmissions. These kits are used when replacing the 4-cylinder and 4 or 5-speed gearbox with a V8 and TH700/4L60E, they are also required when replacing the 4-cylinder and 4-speed with a V6 and TH700/4L60E.

The mounting plates supplied are 25mm/1" thick and are welded to the chassis rails. They are drilled and taped to allow the crossmember to be re-bolted to the vehicle with the original bolts. They also allow more clearance between the floor pan and the transfer case and help to reduce the drive shaft universal angle, thus reducing drive line vibrations.

Marks 4WD Adaptors manufacture a Commodore, shifter mounting and display kit to fit all vehicles as well as Hilux and 4/Runner.

The universal kit consists of a TPS and mounting bracket, digital display and mounting bracket, bolts, screws etc.

The Hilux and 4/Runner kits consist of a new floor mounting plate that accepts the original Commodore shifter mechanism. They also come with a TPS and mounting bracket, digital display and mounting bracket, bolts, screws etc.

The shifter is fitted to the transmission tunnel in the original gear lever position; this enables the original gearlever boot to be used, which makes the installation look very neat and professional. The shifter display can be fitted under the dash or near the shifter. The display indicates the gear positions, which are illuminated green while the actual gear selected is indicated with a red LED next to the relevant gear.

The display is also fitted with a fault indicator light, which is used to show any ECM or PCM problems. This light is also used to read the fault codes making it very easy to diagnose any problems.

The display is also fitted with a Lockup indicator light which is used to show when the torque converter is locked.

As all automatic transmissions have limited engine braking on steep declines we would recommend you consider using our Rock Crawling Gears or Dual Transfer Case Kit for improved performance and added safety when off road.