[Bill Harris]

You shouldn't have any issue with a RVB that doesn't apply the reverse band unless you get stupid. The sprag in the C4 is pretty stout and not prone to failure like some of the GM three speeds. What it doesn't like is running it up to high speed in first, backing off and then tromping on the gas (i.e., stupid). That really slams the sprag from overrun to hold and if your gonna damage it, that would do it.

I like the "no engine braking" in first on mine, since I can run around the pits in first, back off the throttle and coast. I always apply the throttle very gently from coast though to prevent slamming the sprag.

I think there are reverse pattern valve bodies that do apply the reverse band in first, but that is tricky since the band has to be released going into second and the timing associated with that release can make for a really harsh shift (and trans damage) if it isn't done just right.