Ok guys I've searched and not come up with clear information. I have a 2009 silverado extended cab that just got its new motor. It should be capable of 650 rwhp if all works out well for me. With stock engine and turbo on 8 lbs I had 442 rwhp and my transmission took that for 10,000 miles but I think I've pushed it too long and I don't wana be stranded. I am looking into a 4l80e swap but I am unsure what year model I need to look for that will be the most compatible with my existing hardware , harness ect. Do I need to find one manufactured from the body change in 07 or will any 4l80e swap in with new wires/ mount? What would be the most cost effective means of swapping to a stronger transmission.

 

Any year will work. The newer ones have the top bell housing bolt for ls motors. Most will recommend a 97 and newer for the better lubrication. I'm gathering parts for an 80e swap on my truck also.

 

There are two schools of thought on the lubrication. Some builders think 96 and before are better, some think 97+ are better. You can tell a 97+ by the cooler fittings on the passenger side being separated by a foot or so. The older ones have the lines stacked on top of each other like your 60.

99+ have the top bell housing bolt that corresponds with LS engines.

Avoid 93 and older IMO, they have strange wiring and missing bosses for the neutral safety switch.

Otherwise, small internal changes happened inside over the years, nothing that makes a huge difference as far as I'm aware.

I'd find anything 94 and newer that looks like it's in decent shape and doesn't have a ton of clutch material in the pan.

 

I think there are 3 different types...

< 1997
1997-2001.5
> 2001.5

the one i was told to buy was the 1997-2001.5 since it has the larger OD sprag. Also i have been told the newer 2001.5 have some internal alignment issues...

 

I never put that top bolt back in anyway...hell I only have the 4 beside the dowels and the ones on the bottom

 

Jakes has some good 4L80E info: 4L80E FAQ

 

Larger sprag can be added to newer trans units also

Just save yourself and buy an 80e that came behind an LS engine , freshen it up with oem Borg Warner clutches , good shift kit , larger sprag and good triple disc converter .

Then go kick *** !