I believe the 80E version of the 246 has a 5 or 6 pinion planetary carrier depending on the model year. The 60e version is a 4 pinion.

 

What's the difference?

 

Higher torque capacity. Now I'm thinking it is the 60e version that had the pinion count change, possibly part way through 2004. So say 4(60e) vs 6(80e). Don't have access to my service manuals this week. Just checking in on WIFI while on vacation.

 

After checking.....The 60E version actually went down from a 4 pinion to a 3 pinion during 2004. 80E version stayed at 6 pinion.

"There are two versions of the NVG 246 EAU, which depend on the transmission applications and vehicle applications. If the vehicle is equipped with a transmission RPO M30, the transmission splines in the input gear will have 27 teeth. With this application the planetary carrier assembly will have 3 pinion gears. If the vehicle is equipped with transmission RPO MT1 or MN8, the transmission splines in the input gear will have 32 teeth. The planetary carrier assembly on this application will have 6 pinion gears.
Some of the changes to the transfer case, that will take place over this model year, include the following:

• The oil pump suction pipe and screen will change to a one piece design.
• The case half bolts will have a cup style washer and the bolt can be used again.
• The clutch apply plate, clutch hub, and clutch oil restrictor plate will have a design change.
• The 4 pinion gear planetary carrier assembly is changing to a 3 pinion gear design."

 

Thank you. I should have picked up the transfer case when I had the opportunity to. Oh well, seems like many guys indeed are running 11s on a stock 3 pinion transfer case so I should be fine...