boogyman

iTrader: (1)

Just picked up an E36 325 convertible a couple of weeks ago, to do an LSX swap.

I'd intended to go with the T56 tranny, but will probably end up going with an auto tranny for various reasons.

Does anyone know if a 4L80E tranny will fit in the 325? I'd heard that the 80E was physically larger than the 60E. Any ideas at all?

The reason I'm going with the 80E is because I'm going to turbo the engine while doing the swap, and the 60E is too weak to handle anything over 450~500+ RWHP, right? I'm not doing any drag racing, but will not baby the car.

rao

iTrader: (18)

It isn't going to fit without a LOT of modifications. The 80 is a much larger than the 60.

mramay

iTrader: (4)

I went with a 4L60E in my Benz because I didn't want to have to whittle up the tunnel to fit the much bigger 4L80E. I found a tranny shop here in Vegas that supports the local drag racers and they built me a 4L60 with the heavy duty shell, 5-gear planetary, and kevlar bands it takes to work with my 480HP LS6. I'd suggest you look into a 4L65E since it's stronger than a 4L60 and might just be able to be built sufficiently strong for your use. It's the same size as the 4L60.

The other item to think about is the rear wheel size you'll be using. Are you going to put big enough tires under the Beemer to require that robust of a tranny? My 3800 pound Mercedes will be getting tires no larger than 275/18 on the back as I'm trying to protect a $3500 differential. YMMV

Mike
Vegas

FBamBam50too

I seriously cannot think of one good reason to use that 80 in an E36...its huge...its HEAVY....did I mention HEAVY? Its expensive , expensive to build...true, its stout, but sort of like putting 10 pounds of flour in a 5 pound sack....good luck though....

E36LUVA

Yeah an 80 is overkill for a 3000lb car and the rear end might blow before the trans does so I don't think you'd have to worry about using a 60 instead. That 80 is designed to be used in 5000lb vehicles with over 300hp so they are very strong but they are just too big and heavy for the E36...

FastKat

iTrader: (10)

The 80 is considerably bigger than 60 and is likely to cause fitment issues. Most of the increased size is in the girth (width and height). As for weight, I think it's around 70-80 pounds heavier than the 4L60E.

With such a light car, you will probably not need a 4L80E.