Why is this required when going to an 80E? I read that it is for proper alignment of the starter/ring gear when using the 80E flexplate. Of course it will also push the converter further into the trans. That would mean that the factory 80E trucks must come with the spacer. Is this correct? Or does this only apply to certain model years?

What about the billet flexplates? Is a spacer still required, or is this offset machined into the plate?

 

The 4l80e was never redesigned(unless really lately) for the gen3 engines. 99-00 6.0's and 4.8's(manuals) had longer cranks. They redisigned the 5 speeds for the 4.8 and shortened the cranks. They developed a spacer for the 6.0 in 01+ to mount up properly to the gen1/2 designed 4l80e housing and did away with the longer cranks all together.

At least this is the way I understand it.

 

That is how I pictured it. With the shorter cranks on the newer engines, they would all require the spacer. I have received conflicting information, so I just want to clarify this.

 

The 4L60E flexplates are dished in the middle, making them sit out further from the crank snout. For whatever reason, the 4L80E flexplates are completely flat, necessitating the use of a spacer to push them out to the same position as the 60E flexplates.

 

I run a Hughes LS1 flexplate... no spacer... with my Vig 3200

Bill

 

I assume this one is dished similar to the 60E plate then?

 

either way, anyone installing a 6.0L from a heavy duty truck into their 1/2 ton will have the spacer laying around, wouldn't hurt to have it on hand if you need it then it's there.

 

It is a dished flexplate designed for 60E use... the Vig3200 (9.5" triple disk) I'm running in my 80E... has 60E style 3 bolt billet cover for fitment to the flexplate.

Bill

 

Didn't know there was such a critter. 80E back half/60E front half? I guess that's what was meant when I was told I wouldn't need a spacer as long as I get an "LS1 converter" for the 80E.

 

Spoke with Chuck at FLT. All of the PI Vig LS1 converters(both 60E and 80E) have the same 3 bolt front unless specified otherwise. So they all bolt up to a 60E style flywheel. No new flexplate or spacer required.

So I should be good to go with a HD 60E style fllexplate.