Don't build a 408 and then cheap out by using an untested unknown condition converter. That will only lead to disappointment. There's been several interesting threads about converters lately, it would be wise to do some more research.
My grandfather had pulled the original drivetrain out of the 1985 Ram to put a 440 in the truck, he did this probably before I was born. I was born in 1987. The transmission didn't have many miles on it and it has been sitting in the garage tucked away in the corner ever since. So I am confident there isn't anything wrong with the Torque Converter or the transmission for that matter.
Once I get and build a Big Block for the Barracuda the 408 will be going back into the Jeep. The Jeep is awaiting to get re-done as well. But that is mostly just, paint, removing lift and rebuilding axles and such.
But everything will be getting re-used in other vehicles. Except for the Small Block 727 trans. Small block radiator and headers would go into the Duster. The 408 back into the Jeep. So pretty much the only thing that wouldn't be re-used is the Small Block 727.
So I don't want to spend to much money on the transmission. Just the stock torque converter and probably a shift kit. I'll save for a good torque converter for the Big Block.
