General Motors has made a tremendous effort to ensure their turbo hydramatic line of transmission continues and also keeps up with performance. One of this turbo hydramatics is the 200R4 transmission. Its ability to boost fuel economy and reduce engine wear is one reason it’s pretty famous. Another reason for its popularity is it’s a suitable replacement for its predecessor without much modification.
For drivers who desire more power, the 200R4 is an excellent upgrade to consider. The transmission is also affordable, easily reachable, and will serve its purpose. Read on as this article highlights other crucial information about transmission, which includes some common problems and solutions. But for a start, let’s see the 200R4 transmission in detail.
200R4 Transmission Explained
The 200R4 transmission is a 4-speed hydraulically operated automatic transmission—A series of General Motors hydramatic transmissions. And came as a successor to the TH200, a light-duty TH350 built to boost fuel economy. The transmission features a torque converter lock and 27 spline input and output shafts to withstand vehicle torque.
It is housed by an aluminum casing for protection and has a fluid capacity of 11 quarts. The transmission is about 27 inches long and 19 inches wide. It typically runs on four gears in the following ratios; 2.74, 1.57, 1, and 0.67, respectively.
It is hydraulically operated, so shifting is done via a throttle valve cable which can be replaced. However, one must ensure the cable is compatible and matches your car’s specifications; using the wrong cable can make the transmission wear faster. So it’s essential the cable matches your vehicle’s throttle bracket.
Manufactured by General Motors, the 200R4 transmission was used to replace the TH200 in 1981. And fitted into many Chevys from the ’80s and below. Updating from the three-speed TH200 to the four-speed 200R4 became necessary, where an overdrive gear must be added to the transmission.
Generally, the 200R4 transmission specs are almost identical to that of its predecessors—TH200 and TH350. Hence a good upgrade for cars using the former TH200 and TH350, as it will fit easily and not need much modification. Basically, the 200-R4 and TH350 bellhousing have the same length and same bolt pattern, so the driveshaft won’t need to be shortened.
They also use the same 27 Shaft spline. However, you may need to change the cross member of the 200-4R since it is mounted at the edge of the tail shaft. When swapping from the TH350 to 200-R4, you will need to replace the TH350 detent cable with a 200-4R adjustable cable.
Since the 200R4 is a non-computerized transmission, an aftermarket lockup adapter or toggle switch lockup can be used to activate the torque converter lockup. Though, using a premade lock up will make the conversion look more authentic.
Using lockups when converting from three to four-speed is essential, as failure to do that may result in too much torque converter slipping. And invariably leading to transmission failing quickly.
The 200R4 was, however, outfaced in 1990 and replaced with the 700R4—a four-speed transmission that was later replaced by the 4L60 and 4L60E. While the 200R4 was upgraded to the 700R4, one would expect a huge difference, right? So here is how to identify a 200R4 transmission without even going under the hood.
No doubt, both the 200R4 transmission pan and the 700R4 use 16 bolts. Their pan design is, however, different. While the 700R4 transmission pan takes a square shape, the 200R4 transmission pan looks thinner on one side, with the 200R4 16 bolt heads measuring 13mm.
Another way to identify the 200R4 is a code. The 200R4 transmission identification codes are written on a plate located on the right side of the casing near the tail shafts. You should find this plate fastened by a bolt. The codes are usually two or three letters written in big letters on this ID plate.
What about the 200R4 transmission vs TH350, how do you differentiate them? Their designs look pretty similar too. However, while the 200R4 uses 16 bolts, the TH350 features only 13 bolts. If you’re a performance driver, the best 200R4 transmission would be the versions built for the olds 4-4-2, Buick Grand National, and Chevy Monte Carlo SS between 1986 and 1987.
These versions feature a unique valve body, a larger reversed boost valve, a second to third middle servo, and a special governor assembly. They are usually differentiated from other versions with these transmission codes: BQ, OZ, BRF, CZF or KZF
The GM 200R4 transmission is a very affordable option and easily reachable. You could get them in junk and scrap yards—Built or stock. If you’re looking for a stock 200R4, you will mostly see them used. So by typing used 200R4 transmission for sale near me, you should see a list of shops offering them. Likewise, if you want a built transmission, simply type rebuilt 200R4 transmission for sale near me.
If you own an old 200R4 or intend to rebuild from scratch, there are auto shops from which you can get aftermarket parts. Aftermarket parts to build 200R4 transmission for heavy-duty applications are also available at shops that sell transmission parts.
The GM 200R4 transmission was fitted to GM’s high-performance trucks and cars. You should also find the transmission in General Motors’ B, C, D, and G body vehicles. Many other GM passenger vehicles can use this transmission because it was built with Chevy and BOP bell housing bolt patterns. Here is a rundown of all cars fitted with the 200R4 transmission.
Read More: Th400 vs. Th350 Transmission – In-depth Comparison
| Vehicles | Years |
| Buick Electra | 1981-1984 |
| Buick Estate Wagon | 1981-1990 |
| Buick Regal | 1983-1987 |
| Cadillac Fleetwood | 1981-1989 |
| Chevrolet Caprice | 1981-1981 |
| Chevrolet Malibu | 1984-1987 |
| Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1984-1988 |
| GMC Caballero | 1985-1987 |
| Jaguar ZR W L6 220 3.6L SS | 1982-1983 |
| Oldsmobile Customer Cruiser | 1986-1990 |
| Pontiac Parisienne | 1983-1989 |
200R4 transmission problems and fixes
The 200R4 no doubt has incredible capabilities. However, it’s not a perfect transmission. So here are common 200R4 transmission problems.
Not going into gear
One common problem that has plagued 200R4 is its inability to enter gear at all when pushed into gear. Several factors, including a broken linkage cable, could cause this. But the most obvious cause, according to users, is a wrong or faulty torque converter.
Generally, the 700R4 torque converter looks like that of the 200R4. So if you had mistakenly switched the 700R4 torque converter into the 200R4 transmission, your transmission might refuse to go into gears.
The converter goes bad if its turbine hub breaks from the turbine, causing it not to drive the input shaft and resulting in transmission not entering gear. The best way to fix this is to ensure you’re using the right torque converter and the broken turbine hub replaced.
Failure to respond when shifting through gears
The 200R4 transmission has reportedly refused to respond when testing by shifting through all gears. This issue can be caused by multiple factors but is mainly attributed to fluid issues and non-functioning shifter mechanisms. A great way to fix this is to ensure the fluid level is intact. If the fluid is low, try topping it.
You may also need to check the condition of the fluid and change it if it’s dirty. Suppose the shifter mechanism is not functioning well; fluid will not pass through, resulting in shifting issues. So ensure the shifter mechanism is working well and the pump is moving fluid as intended.
Slipping transmission
Another common issue with the GM 200R4 is transmission slippage. This may indicate some mechanical parts are worn out and need maintenance. Slippage can also be obvious during hard shifting, slowed acceleration, or a weird smell.
This could be due to low fluid or valve issues. An excellent way to fix this is to ensure the fluid level is at the right spot and the valves move freely.
Is the 200R4 transmission good
One question many would ask to be sure if this transmission is worth it is, is a 200R4 transmission any good? The 200R4 transmission is one of the best from General Motors’ line of Turbo hydramatic. It punctures out much power and helps improve fuel economy, and reduces engine wear.
One of its high points is that it can fit into most cars equipped with its predecessors without much modification. So if you’re upgrading from the GM Powerglide or TH350, the 200R4 is a good option as you wouldn’t have to worry about fitting.
Also, because its design and size almost equal the TH350 and two-speed Powerglide, converting them to a four-speed 200R4 automatic transmission is effortless. While not electronically operated, its improved torque capacity and robust build make it a better 4-speed non-electric GM build.
The 200R4 is also very easy to get as you will find it in scrap and junk yards and, more importantly, a very affordable option. While the 200R4 is not a perfect transmission and, in reality, its successor will outdo it, it can become a powerhouse with a few tweaks. Invariably becoming stronger than even its successor.
Frequently Asked Questions—FAQs
Is a 200R4 better than a 700R4
Short answer. Generally, the 700R4 will naturally outdo the 200R4; however, the 200R4 can be modified to be stronger than the 700R4. Long answer, which is better for you, typically depends on what you want and what kind of car you drive—comparing the 200R4 transmission vs 700R4. If you drive muscle cars with high-performance or large V8 engines, the 700R4 is a better option.
However, for vehicles with V6 or smaller V8 engines, the 200-R4 should fit with minor modifications. The 700R4 can blow up when faced with real power. Whereas the 200R4 torque capacity is better and, with a few tweaks, can even withstand up to 1000 horsepower. However, the 700R4 is more durable and easier to get than the 200R4, so the 200R4 may not be a good choice for modern vehicles.
If you own a car that has featured the three-speed TH350 and wants an upgrade to a four-speed tranny, the 200R4 is a better option. It will fit easily and need little or no modification. The 700R4 fourth overdrive gear is more powerful, hence rotates at a lower rpm which allows for better fuel mileage. Cost-wise, the 200R4 is more affordable and even simpler to operate.
What vehicles came with the 200R4
What cars came with a 200R4 transmission? General Motors’ high-performance trucks and cars came stock with the 200R4 transmission. You will literally find them on GM’s B, C, D, and G-bodied vehicles.
The transmission between 1981-1990 was also fitted to GM’s rear wheel drive application that had the 301 Pontiac, 231 Buick, and the Oldsmobile 307, 350 gasoline, and 350 diesel engines. The multiple bell housing of the 200-R4 transmission also allowed it to be fitted into several Chevrolet 267 and 305 with V8 engines.
How much horsepower can a 200-4R handle?
How much horsepower a 200-4R can handle depends on which you have—stock or rebuilt. The stock 2004R can withstand about 550HP. However, rebuilt 200-4R can handle between 700-1000HP.
Usually, rebuilt transmission outputs more power than stock. Reason is they are built according to what a vehicle requires, which also influences the parts used.
With just a few right tweaks, a stock 200R4 can be turned into a performance 200R4 transmission outputting as much as 1000 horsepower. If you, however, do not have a stock 200R4, you can search for used 200R4 transmission for sale and do the modification by buying only a few parts. Understand that if you’re rebuilding from scratch, it will cost more since every aftermarket part is new and of higher quality.
It can even be cheaper if you can do it yourself, all you need is to get the 200R4 transmission rebuild kit, and you are good to go. In case, you can’t build it yourself, contact a professional or buy one already built. To know the prices of built 200R4 near you, simply type rebuilt 200R4 transmission for sale near me together with the shop name you intend to get their prices. For example, if you want the price for Craigslist, simply type built 200R4 transmission for sale Craigslist.
What year did 200R4 come out?
The 200-R4 was ushered into the market in 1981, replacing the outdated three-speed TH200 transmission. And fitted into Chevy’s vehicles built from 1980 downwards. It was, however, outfaced in 1990 and replaced with the 700R4, which was later named the 4L60 and, subsequently, the 4L60E transmission.
How many gears does a 200-4R have?
The 200-4R is a four-speed transmission, so it comes with four forward gears and one reverse gear. The first has a ratio of 2.74:1, the second at 1.57:1, the third at 1.0, and the fourth at 0.67:1, with the reverse at 2.07.1.
The fourth (overdrive) gear allows the engine on which it was installed to rotate at a lower rpm than a three-speed TH200 transmission. This ultimately helps minimize fuel consumption and engine wear. It also allows one to upgrade to a bigger rear wheel axle while allowing the car to be still streetable.
How much does a 200-4R weigh?
Without the Torque converter and fluid, a stock 200-4R weighs 118 pounds. However, with a torque converter and fluid, it can go up to 125 pounds. A customized 200-R4 transmission may weigh higher depending on the aftermarket parts used. The cars on which the transmission is fitted also determine its weight.
Final Words
The 200R4 transmission is GM’s four-speed automatic transmission and is among their Turbo hydramatic. It was used to replace the TH200, a three-speed turbo hydramatic. The 200-R4 helps save fuel and is very affordable. Because its design and that of its predecessor are close, it will be a suitable replacement for those cars equipped with either TH350 or two-speed power glide.
It’s a suitable replacement because it fits and doesn’t need much modification. Generally, the 200-R4 is a perfect fit for vintage cars, thanks to its drive shaft, bell housing, and mechanical speedometer. While not a perfect transmission, a few tweaks can turn it from the 80s transmission to a modern powerhouse.
