Tonytheplumber

I'm just getting my feet wet with this project and I'm hoping somebody can help me figure out which year (93-95, 96-98, or 99-??) 4L60E trans to use. I have decided on a NP241 transfer case which will adapt to either trans with the corresponding factory trans to case adapter. The 241 came with the driver's side front driveshaft in the 88-98 GM pick-ups which had a floor shift 4wd shifter and is a popular swap for the guys who want to do away with the 246 t-case in the 99-current trucks. The question I suppose I have is in regards to the trans differences in the earlier 4L60E and the later 4L60E, or can/should I go for a 99-current 4L60E??? Trying to get my parts gathered up here and not sure which trans will have the best compatibility. I certainly want the E trans because I don't want to fool with any TV cables on the non-E and 700R4. I've already got my LQ4 and a set of 243s for it, so I'm really eager to sort out the trans and t-case details so I can get going with this Frankenstein. Thanks in advance for any help!

the_merv

iTrader: (88)

1998-up 4L60E..the newer style.

gnx7

iTrader: (28)

The 4L80E will be a much more durable transmission; however 1st gear in the 4L60E is deeper for off roading.

Tonytheplumber

I'm a fan of the 4L80, but this Bronco is all fiberglass, with no top or doors, only 33" tires and 4.10 gears. Should be very light and quick. Don't need the extra heft from a 4L80. And yes, the lower 1st gear in the 4L60 is a nice feature too.

So a 99-current (for the 4wd trucks) 4L60 is what I'm on the hunt for. Craigslist here I come!

NWolvie

You might want to double check the width on that NP241. I swapped a 383/700R4/NP241 in my dad's Scout 800, and I checked the width to see if it would fit in my 70 Bronco. Too wide. Might work with a clocking ring.

Tonytheplumber

I crapped myself when I did some measuring a couple of months back and found out that the 241 wasn't going to fit...so I thought. Then as I was starring mindlessly into the engine bay of the Bronco I realized that the trans tunnel and motor frame mounts for the engine are offset to the passenger side by about 1-1/2" to 2". Seems strange that Ford pushed the drivetrain off to one side rather than placing it in the center, but however you look at it, it seems that I now may be able to squeak the 241 t-case in there. At this point I only have the cash sunk into a used 241 off of Craigslist so not a huge deal if it ends up not fitting. My next concern is the oil pan to front dif clearance at full suspension compression.

NWolvie

If it doesn't fit, a clocking ring might help:

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/motor-tranny-t-case-performance/947181-nwf-round-pattern-clocking-rings.html

Tonytheplumber

True story.