I've read through this thread more than once & wanted to say thanks for the info + the additional insight/input from other members sharing their experiences.
So you want to install a 4L80E? Learn from my mistakes (and successes!)
- Thread starter 454GrandPrix
- Start date
Great write up. And great Info. Not trying to hibachi the thread at all. But I do have a dumb question. You did mention that you had to cut the “ears” off the trans. What exactly is that? Or where? I just had my firewall completely prepped and painted and would like to avoid banging it up as much as possible.
Attachments
I'm ready to swap the 4L60 for a 4L80 with plans of adding boost to my 5.3 engine. I'll probably buy a trans from FB marketplace, as this seems to be the go to place for buying stuff these days. What should I be looking for and what should I definitely avoid? Should I use the trans as is, should I take it to a rebuilder, or should I just change the filter and fluid? Should I attempt to rebuild this myself? I'm not looking for 1000 horsepower, but 600 hp max would probably be the goal. All the suspension is brand new, new QP 9" out back. The 60 definitely has to go.
I would like to add that I'm not asking about this because I don't want to do the research. It's because I know you guys have been through a lot of the headaches and successes, and I value your opinions.
I would like to add that I'm not asking about this because I don't want to do the research. It's because I know you guys have been through a lot of the headaches and successes, and I value your opinions.
Last edited:
I picked up a used GM reman 4L80E out of 2009 van with the 6L that supposedly had an injector stick with 60,000 km on the reman, paid an eye watering $1500 Canadian. It works great, factory converterh flashes at 2100 rpm, anywhere from 1500 to high 2000's are claimed online, mine is right in the middle. The center cooling lines will require clearance to your floor pan, even with braided and angled fittings. Earlier onrs have the more conventional placement like your Malibu. The 4L80E a big monster and tight everywhere. Look Amazon if you want to save money on a driveshaft. I ended using a 96 to 05 Blazer 3.5" replacement driveshaft on my 70 A body. It used a 1350 to 3R rear conversion U joint and the front used a 1350 U joint, made swapping the 27 spline to 32 spline 4L80E yoke a breeze. The driveshaft looks like a factory heavy duty in the perfect length.
Bolting it in unchecked is ‘crap shoot’ territory. But I understand doing that as well. Personally, I would just to figure out if it works well or not.
Regarding power capabilities, 600hp is nothing a properly functioning 80e. Keep it below 190-200 degrees and it will last damn near forever at 600hp.
Thanks for the replies. I figured that I could buy two or three FB transmissions for the price of a rebuild from someone I don't necessarily know or trust. I have a brand new PST drive shaft that I can get shortened. I might try cleaning one up and doing the Transgo shift kit. If it dies, it dies. I don't have boost yet, so I guess I can try to abuse it behind the NA 5.3 and see how it works.
Similar threads
