4L80E in a Street Rod project...
Thread Starter
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 313
Likes: 5
From: Mississippi Gulf Coast
4L80E in a Street Rod project... I'm changing directions on my '36 Chevy from a Turbo Buick drivetrain to an LS-based motor and automatic tranny. I've got access to an LS1 Camaro motor and a 5.3 truck motor. I'm leaning toward the truck motor just because it's more complete.
Since I'm basically starting with a "blank slate" (no wiring harness at all yet, crossmembers custome built, etc.) I'm thinking a 4L80E would be the way to go right from the beginning.
I realize that I'll need a convertor and adapter to use the 80 behind the LS, but beyond that would I be better off ($$$ wise) to buy the tranny, ECM, harness and all from the truck I get the tranny from? It would seem simpler since I'm not adapting it to any existing wiring harness. According to this link http://www.drivetrain.com/autotransc....html#CADILLAC there were 4L80e trannys behind some 5.3 and 5.7 equipped vehicles. Would that eliminate the need for adapters?
Your thoughts and input are appreciated.
Richard
Since I'm basically starting with a "blank slate" (no wiring harness at all yet, crossmembers custome built, etc.) I'm thinking a 4L80E would be the way to go right from the beginning.
I realize that I'll need a convertor and adapter to use the 80 behind the LS, but beyond that would I be better off ($$$ wise) to buy the tranny, ECM, harness and all from the truck I get the tranny from? It would seem simpler since I'm not adapting it to any existing wiring harness. According to this link http://www.drivetrain.com/autotransc....html#CADILLAC there were 4L80e trannys behind some 5.3 and 5.7 equipped vehicles. Would that eliminate the need for adapters?
Your thoughts and input are appreciated.
Richard
Last edited by 1936 LS1; Oct 22, 2008 at 03:47 PM.
If you are not going to have alot of power, (over 550rwhp), the 4L60-65E is fine and less expensive to build. We've installed the salvage yard harness, ecm, motor, and trans combo as well as aftermarket. It is really up to the customer and his ambitions. Yours sounds nice. Can you get some pics when your done? Good Luck.
Thread Starter
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 313
Likes: 5
From: Mississippi Gulf Coast
If you are not going to have alot of power, (over 550rwhp), the 4L60-65E is fine and less expensive to build. We've installed the salvage yard harness, ecm, motor, and trans combo as well as aftermarket. It is really up to the customer and his ambitions. Yours sounds nice. Can you get some pics when your done? Good Luck.
About 550-600 is my ultimate goal. I'll eventually turbo the LS1 but I'm gonna get it up and running first. That's why I was leaning toward an 80.
I was thinking a stock 4L80e would last a pretty long time even once I increase the power level.
Is there an 80 that doesn't require a special TC to put it behind an LS motor?
Am I correct in my thinking that a 4L80E will bolt to a 5.3 truck block without needing spacers or custom convertors? I ask because I have access to a 5.3 truck motor too.
BTW, here's a link to some pics of the '36
http://rides.webshots.com/album/103395615gKuKRz
Last edited by 1936 LS1; Oct 23, 2008 at 06:15 PM. Reason: addition
I believe the truck crank has a different depth than a pass. car. The car motor may require a spacer in some applications. The trans will bolt right up. Tell the converter company what you have and they set you up. I'm not at the shop right now, but I can find out. I would definately lean to the 80 with that power. As a matter of fact, I would look at BS3. Killer harness, lots of options for the turbo and trans combo. And that sticker! lol. I'm helping a bud with a 69 Post SS 396, now housing a 582 w/809HP and 745LBS on pump gas and 2000cfm throttle body. He has an 80. The BS3 is awesome! I can't wait to help tune the trans. He's also planning 300HP NX. If you upgrade, the 80 will handle it. John Meanny has I think 1300HP in that twin turbo ride with an 80. You'll have lots of room, and lots of fun. Get some pics as you gain progress. Good Luck.
