I have a 1970 Nova that I would like to install an automatic overdrive transmission.  I know allot of guys are installing the 700 r4s in their early chevys.  I know GM used to have allot of trouble with these trannies.  I plan on installing a 383 stroked small block in the car.  It will probably be around a 400 to 450 HP motor with nothing higher than 480 foot lbs of torque.

My question is:   Should I install a 700R4 transmission or should I install a TH 350 or 400 with a gearvendors overdrive.  I realize the gearvendors is expensive, but I would rather spend the extra money to get a set up that is reliable.

Any advice or opinions would be greatly appreciated.

check out bowtieoverdrives.com  and http://www.ptsnctb.com/index.asp

they both have overdrive trannies that can handle the power you want to make.

It all dependends on your skill level and knowledge on rebuilding. Parts to rebuild a 700-R4 will run about $700.00 thats minus a converter. If your not gong to run to hard the corvette converter will work. As usual its how much do you want to spend. If you do not have the skill level to rebuild,
I would go to a dealer such as Phoenix Trans or Century, in Texas they have the parts or trans you need.