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4l80e in Limp mode?

Old Dec 24, 2017 | 10:45 AM
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Default 4l80e in Limp mode?

I purchased an '03 GMC Savana 3500 from auction for the 6.0l/4l80e to swap into a '70 GMC. Vehicle had no driveshaft so I couldn't test drive. Fixed that and find the only gears I have are 2nd and reverse, which research says is "LIMP" mode. I have power to the transmission, but I also have fluid in the main connector to the transmission. Fluid looks great, very clean and my cheap scanner picks up no tranny related codes. I would love to see this thing shift out once before pulling for the swap. TIA for any help.

Last edited by krue; Dec 24, 2017 at 10:50 AM. Reason: Add info
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 10:53 AM
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Check speed sensors. And tps sensor. Check grounds.
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 01:42 PM
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I guess I should add that I have to start the vehicle by bypassing the starter relay. Everything powers up with the key on but it will not turn over.
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 02:49 PM
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Bad key switch? If so that could be an issue.
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 04:43 PM
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Does your scanner show shift solenoid state data?

Check the Fluid Pressure Switch states as well, If the PCM thinks it's in manual 2nd.....The truck will take off in 2nd.

4l80e in Limp mode?-j2ixy75.gif

Attachment 718161
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 05:06 PM
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Buy a new valve body and all electronics. Off ebay.
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 05:17 PM
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Originally Posted by Jays_SSZ28
Buy a new valve body and all electronics. Off ebay.
What makes you say that? The fluid in the connector?
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 05:44 PM
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Originally Posted by krue
What makes you say that? The fluid in the connector?
It's the most popular answer. Don't bother with anything else, start throwing parts at it until either you're broke or it starts working.
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 05:46 PM
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I see you had no questions for people who gave solid technical advice.
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Old Dec 24, 2017 | 10:08 PM
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Originally Posted by Jays_SSZ28
I see you had no questions for people who gave solid technical advice.
I guess I don't know what I don't know. I am a parts swapper, I suck at troubleshooting.

Last edited by krue; Dec 25, 2017 at 06:35 PM.
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Old Jan 8, 2018 | 07:36 PM
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Swapped ignition switch and no joy. Is there a way to see what gear the transmission neutral safety switch says the transmission is in without a dash cluster?
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Old Jan 16, 2018 | 04:21 PM
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Originally Posted by krue
I purchased an '03 GMC Savana 3500 from auction for the 6.0l/4l80e to swap into a '70 GMC. Vehicle had no driveshaft so I couldn't test drive. Fixed that and find the only gears I have are 2nd and reverse, which research says is "LIMP" mode. I have power to the transmission, but I also have fluid in the main connector to the transmission. Fluid looks great, very clean and my cheap scanner picks up no tranny related codes. I would love to see this thing shift out once before pulling for the swap. TIA for any help.
If you have fluid in the connector that will make it go into limp mode. Put a new harness in the trans. Isn’t hard to do just pull the pan.
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Old Jan 19, 2018 | 06:01 PM
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Originally Posted by MECHAMZ28
If you have fluid in the connector that will make it go into limp mode. Put a new harness in the trans. Isn’t hard to do just pull the pan.
Any preferred sources? Any to avoid? TIA
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Old Jan 21, 2018 | 07:09 PM
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Originally Posted by krue
Any preferred sources? Any to avoid? TIA
I got mine at Whatever it Takes transmission supply but they are on eBay also. Just look up 4l80 harness. Might have to know what year trans you have. If the cooler lines are side by side I think that’s a old model. If ones a few inches behind the other think it’s a new model. Like 2004 up
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Old Jan 22, 2018 | 09:05 PM
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Originally Posted by MECHAMZ28
I got mine at Whatever it Takes transmission supply but they are on eBay also. Just look up 4l80 harness. Might have to know what year trans you have. If the cooler lines are side by side I think that’s a old model. If ones a few inches behind the other think it’s a new model. Like 2004 up
Is that the same one in Jackson? If so I may just go visit my buddy who lives in Terry and check them out.
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