[questions about my "new" '79]

Suggestion for the "wood" veneer: Try Home Depot or Loews for the large wood tape or very thin wood overlay.

Wendell

[Actual mileage advantage THR700 overdrive automatic?]

To all:

Thanks for the data.

The key point for me is the city driving -- I only use if for work not highway use. In LA, the perception is there is no "highway" driving, only stop 'n go.

Apparently, so far, the "Monster Trans" assessment was what twnchgr has experienced -- 2 mpg.

I'll post on the later model site when the 4-speed was standard and see if there is a pronounced difference in city use. However, I doubt that the cars are limited to that use with most drivers.

Now, with gas at 4.60 here, the initial $1200+ to change out the trans may be worth it.

Thanks for the input.

Wendell

[Actual mileage advantage THR700 overdrive automatic?]

Since my posting, I called one of the transmission companies called "Monster Transmissions" and spoke to the tech rep.

The outcome, based on the 3:07 differential, the 350 engine, and a 3500 lb. car, the advantage in the city (Los Angeles traffic!) estimate was "Maybe 2 mpg at the most."

Does this fit anyone's expectation who has installed the TH700R 4-speed?

Anyone with a post-1982 Avanti that has the factory installed 4-speed automatic and what is your mileage in the city?

Obviously, the cost will be at least $800+ for the trans and then the installation cost of $$$??. I know I won't be able to do this one in the driveway.

At 60 MPH, my Avanti is turning 2900 RPMs --- BIG difference with the Tacoma truck at 1800 RPM.

Many thanks.

Wendell

[Actual mileage advantage THR700 overdrive automatic?]

My '79 has a 3:07 differential and a GM Th400 short shaft transmission.

Have any of you replaced your TH (GM Turbomatic) 3-speed transmissions with a TH700R 4-speed to obtain increased gas mileage?

If so, was there any substantial difference in city driving compared to the previous trans?

My '79, with the replacement GM350 crate motor with 35,000 miles averages 15 mpg in the traffic-clogged Los Angeles basin.

If a replacement, I know Myers Studebaker has a "kit" that enables the replacement -- dealing with the new crossmember and the electronic substitutions.

Any insight and specific mileages are appreciated if you have made such a replacement or have an Avanti year that came with the TH700R 4-speed.

Thanks,

Wendell

[Actual mileage advantage THR700 overdrive automatic?]

My '79 has a 3:07 differential and a GM Th400 short shaft transmission.

Have any of you replaced your TH (GM Turbomatic) 3-speed transmissions with a TH700R 4-speed to obtain increased gas mileage?

If so, was there any substantial difference in city driving compared to the previous trans?

My '79, with the replacement GM350 crate motor with 35,000 miles averages 15 mpg in the traffic-clogged Los Angeles basin.

If a replacement, I know Myers Studebaker has a "kit" that enables the replacement -- dealing with the new crossmember and the electronic substitutions.

Any insight and specific mileages are appreciated if you have made such a replacement or have an Avanti year that came with the TH700R 4-speed.

Thanks,

Wendell

[Rear vertical bumper guard]

At the Orange County La Palma Studebaker show, the Avanti next to mine was a restored 1978 sans the rear bumper "bumpers". The bumper was removed and the plating shop filled in the bolt hole and replated the bumper. The appearance was greatly enhanced without the, in my perception, meaningless rubber uprights.

Wendell