r380 or zf auto

[orionpco]

i have both transmissions on hand and was planning on using the r380 in my project but as the time to place the powertrain between the chassis rails grows near i keep looking at the auto trans and wondering.

i would like some thoughts on this from you guys. most of you are way more familiar with the pros and cons of both. i myself am only familiar with the zf which was behind a 3.5 l in my old 89 rrc.

[jetmech]

the ZF with carbs ma have shift delays.

[ini88]

Remember the ratios between the boxes is slightly different. I doubt it will make a difference in the end. How are you planning to use the truck? Cruising or mostly trails?

[rover4x4]

R380

[o2batsea]

I don't want to appear sexist, but if there are any women involved, and you want her to be able to drive you home when you bust your leg falling down that rocky cliff when the well aged British Army shovel you were leaning on gives way, install the slushbox. It's detente, diplomacy,world peace and domestic bliss in the shape of a transmission. Think of it as a way to reach out and say "Babe, I want us BOTH to be able to enjoy this when I'm done and all the weekends and evenings spent away from you and under the bonnet of the truck will be time well spent because it will bring us closer after all is said and done" How can she argue with that? Oh the R380 may be sexier and more technical on the trail, but all that ain't worth a poop if you get the silent treatment every time you get behind the wheel. Trust me.

[James Pierce]

I don't want to appear sexist, but if there are any women involved, and you want her to be able to drive you home

I found one who already knew how to drive a standard. Only problem with this is she will want her own.

[WhiteD90]

I have had both and if you ever think you will do rock crawling in BIG ROCKS the ZF is the way to go, no question. I like manuals for other reasons but did the conversion for the crawling ability and never looked back.

If you go manual make sure you get the cross drilled input gear for sure or you will be doing a tranny job before long. documented here...

JT

[slorocco]

x2 on the autobox.

[orionpco]

thanks for the replies. i like a manual for the thrill of things but an auto box really makes texting while driving easier. lol my step daughter told me that one while reading your posts over my shoulder. im still up in the air about which i will use, but i am leaning to towards the slush box after reading the whole marriage harmony post.