HAHAHA, it's got a 5 pinion planet version (4L65E) of the 4L60E! It will blow up in short order also. Supposedly they are to receive the 4L80E in the next year from what I read.

 

its got more than just the 5 planetary od. its got hardened parts and a redesigned valve body as well as a few other little tricks

 

Really?! I though it was good only for ~15tq more over the 4L60E. Can you elaborate a tad more on the internals...I am interested.

 

Yes, I would definitely like to be in line to be shown why in the hell they get to wear SS badges and run $40,000!

 

i testdrove one too back in the spring. i wasn't too impressed either. i think they are supposed to run about 15.4. you can build a better looking and performing truck for cheaper. how much were they selling it for? in the spring they were around $40-41 K. now i think they have come down to $36K. is this true?

 

Nah, you can pick them up for $32-33K (plus TT&L) if you know where to look.

 

I paid invoice ($35,xxx) before the rebates in June. After rebates and GM card discount, I'm in for $31.

 

Ive got an article on the tranny somewhere, if i can find it ill tell you exactly what they did. But I know it has the hardened output shaft and more clutches than the 4L60 as well.

 

4L65E info:

"24221888 4L65-E Automatic Transmission

GM Hydramatic has baked even more technology enhancements into the automatic transmission line up with the new 4L65E. This transmission, the latest creation from GM Hydramatic Motorsports, is a four speed, offering all the latest heavy duty components to stand up to the power of the LS6-405 HP Corvette engines.

Upgrades like induction hardened turbine input shafts, larger intermediate servo, an additional three-four clutch plate. All go toward accommodating higher engine power output. The 4L65E offers optimized performance, fuel economy and increase durability. This sate-of-the-art transmission features the latest heavy duty components and high tech-electronic controls. The advanced electronics controlling the LS6 engine also manages the 4L65E shift points, providing unparalleled performance and durability, P/N 24221888 also includes the torque converter. (No core charge required on this transmission)."

 

LOL, beat ya to it. Seems like a mildly built 4L60E...I still wish they'd address the sun gear reaction shell!

Basically (what it seems to me):

Hardened input shaft
5 Pinion Planets
'Vette Servo
6 or 7 clutches in 3-4 pack