MoonMan
03-29-2010, 11:12 AM
I plan on running either a 4L60E or 4L80E (see below for use). I have seen rebuilt ones on Ebay that can handle 500ish hp for ~$1,000 including converter (I would not buy this type of part off Ebay...just listed for comparison purposes). On the other end of the spectrum is $3500-4000 for one from Bowler, TCI, Level 10, Coan, etc.
My question is isn't there any middle ground? If not, that's fine I don't want to skimp, however, I'm already over budget and don't want to spend unnecessarily for what I'm running.
I have a 72 Camaro with an LS1 (from a '00 Corvette). It will have an upgrade cam, heads, headers and cold air induction. So probably 450-475 hp at the crank??? Not a track car but will be run hard when driven!
Thanks for your time and any guidance,
Tim
Jake's Performance
03-29-2010, 08:49 PM
Yes,
There is "middle ground".
Some of the larger transmission companies have higher prices because they have high overhead.
It also costs time and money to do R&D.
I have a smaller shop that specializes only in GM automatics for performance use.
I don't do much with the 4L60Es. We do some for local customers but most of what we build is 500+ HP.
We've traditionally catered to the drag racing crowd but nowadays the power levels on even daily driven performance cars is easily 500+ HP/TQ so we've concentrated on these applications as well.
We have a sale going on the 4L80E's until April 1st. Depending on core, options, etc they start at $1700.
I've had potential customers call and ask how we can sell them for $1700 when a similar trans from other places is $6000+ (Maybe I need to up my prices :eek:)
The basic 4L80E is rebuilt with all new clutches and friction materials, new shift solenoids, internal wiring harness, valve body is reconditioned, internal upgrades such as rollerized rear carrier to case, fwd hub to direct drum, heavy duty intermediate snap ring, new boost valve, new shift valve springs, new valve body separator plate, hydraulic modifications to increase apply pressure and for better shift feel, and other mods.
It's very capable at up to the 750-800 HP/TQ range. It only needs an upgraded input shaft and forward hub at power levels up to ~1200ish.
We have mechanical speedometer tailhousings available for $350 additional with a build.
We've developed a new transbrake that works with automatic function or full manual and can retain the use of the stock depth pan where ground clearance is an issue. It also has very good release times for the drag racing guys.
Check out the website and call, email, or PM with questions.