TH400 to 700r4 Conversion

[veinbar]

I have a TH400 currently that needs to be rebuilt. With the suggestion of a few members I am now considering a 700r4 conversion. I drive a '79 SWB 1/2 2-wheel drive Bonanza. I know that the 700r4 will bolt up to the motor and cross member w/ no issues. The questions I do have:

1. My '400 has a 2-piece drive shaft. I will need a 1-piece for the 700r4. Does anyone know the exact length of a driveshaft on a '73-'80 truck w/ a 700r4?
2. Will the linkage have to be modified?
3. Will the direct line from the tail of the 700 to the 12 bolt be a safe/operational angle?
4. I know that the 700r4 requires additional cooling, but what else can I expect to change or modify with this conversion?
5. Do driveshafts really need to be balanced anymore? some people say yes, some say no.
6. Some 700r4 cores are better than others. Which years are the best cores to overhaul?

Other questions will pop up along the way, but this is a good start. Thank you in advance for chiming in with advice and information.