New Dodge/Chrylser autos

["Allan Weidenheimer" <allanw@domain.elided>]

The following of from an article in Street Rodder magazine, June 1997:

The 518 compares with the 727
The A-500 compares with the smaller, 904 (little brother of 727)

The 518 can take 400 ft-lb of torque, and you can use two toggle
switches to operate the lockup torque converter and overdrive,
or get aftermarket electronics from Rostra Electronics to do
so automatically.

The 518 ratios are 1st-2.45, 2nd-1.45, 3rd-1, OD-.69
A-500 is 1st-2.74, 2nd-1.54, 3rd-1, OD-.69.  

518 and 727 can use non-lockup or lockup converter, but the 
input shaft is different, 24 splines for non-lockup, 23 splines
for lockup.  Non-lockup was in 90-91 for the 518.

518 is in full size Dodge vans (mostly 360s) and pickups 
(including diesel and V-10) and all V-8 Jeeps.
A-500 is in V-6 and 318 powered Dakotas, and V-6 and I-6
Jeeps.

90-94 versions have the same speedo gear as the 727.  Later
units have an electronic sender.

The 518 will bolt to all Chrysler small blocks, 273, 318, 340,
and 360 from 62-97.  Adaptors are available for the early
Chrysler big blocks, 383, 400,413, 426 and 440.

518s have a 2-1/2 inch deep, ribbed, cast aluminum
pan and note, it will fit on a 727.  Added oil capacity for
the 727, but you might want a plate under it for protection 
on a 4x4.

Allan Weidenheimer
72 1210 Pickup