I know the 4l80e is the choice to go with if you still want OD in your car and since mine is a DD it is about my only option.

What are all the pro's and Con's of doing a 4l803 swap?
I know it is a lot more money.. which i don't have much of at the moment..I know it's built to last longer but is it built for performance as well?
I haven't seen a 4l80e "stage whatever" kit need or come with a shift kit, is that something you can add, does it need it?
Would I only need a built 4l60e if i wasn't planning on pushing over 450-500 hp?

 

A well built 60e should serve your purpose at that power level. The 80E of course is the strongest of the two in any case but as you mention its and expensive swap, The trans is heavier also.

 

^ Agree completely. For your goals there is no reason to get into a 4L80e conversion. One "con" to going 4L80e is you loose a lot of 1st gear ratio. This isn't a bad thing with a big horsepower car but with a milder build you may need to add more rear gear to compensate.

 

So at what horsepower level do you typically go ahead and do the swap to the 80e? What is the 4l60e's limit?

 

I recommend built 4L60e transmissions up to about 750-800rwhp or if it is a dedicated race car. We have yet to find a solid horsepower limit to our Level 7 4L60e transmissions.

 

I don't give the 4L60E as much credit as others. About 500 HP is where I draw the line. Chances are the 80 is more cost effective at even a 500 HP level when you look at the upgrades required to make a 60 live.

 

I have Jakes 80 in my car,,love the trans and knowing launching my 383 off the transbrake and on the spray that the trans is not an issue. Then get out on the highway put the cruise control on and get over 20mpg. Wouldnt go any other way than the 80 its tough. And I am local to Jake, I have been all in his shop and I can tell you he knows exactly what he is talking about.