96 chevy k1500 lq4/4l80e swap

[kewljay223]

Not that this makes a huge difference but just want to input that I think after 03, the lq9 changed to stronger ls2 rods w/floating pins. Also, the gm gave the computer a slight performance tune taking advantage of the extra compression. Like I said, not a big deal. Just wanted to note the flat ls2 Pistons were not literally the ONLY difference....

Anyway, carry on. Btw, have you thought about milling the heads In combination with a thinner gasket to bump commission? Idk if this can be done for cheaper/at all... Just throwing the idea out there as I believe the 317's flow decent for stock to mild builds....

[hokeplaya05]

i had thought of milling the 317's, but i wanted to keep them the way they are because i want to go turbo down the road, so i could slap these back on then to bring compression back down

[Mickeymotormount]

As for reusing your original driveshaft, I don't think that will be possible with the 4L80E. The 80E is a longer transmission, and all else being equal, will require a shorter driveshaft. The front driveshaft you will have to grab from the donor because of how it mounts to the transfer case. I think there is a difference between the 2 so you may have to check on that.

Also, the hole is deleted on the bell housing because the water jacket is directly behind it. GM felt it wasn't necessary to drill it. With all their engineering expertise, I'll trust them on the issue.

[hokeplaya05]

thanks for the info, i was hoping i could reuse both ds, but i guess i will have to look into an alternative.

[hokeplaya05]

so i finally got my hands on a 4l80e! picked it up for $150 off local cl with stock tc, supposedly has 67k on it. i will be bringing it to a local trans shop to have it gone through just incase. will probably have a trango shift kit installed at the same time. i am thinkin about keeping the factory transfer case for now so i can keep my drive shafts providing i can keep it in the stock location. also have a cam spec'ed out, going with a 216/220 .600/.580 114+3 cam motion custom grind and PAC 1219 beehive springs, let me know what you guys think.

here are some pics:


and the pile of parts that is growing for the swap, still havent touched the motor

[Chris6060]

I'm heading to Alberta this weekend to pick up the 4L80E for my LQ4/4L80E swap in my '94 lol.

Brand new transmission still in the crate for a 2004 3/4ton. Already have the engine and transmission...

I'm excited to see how your swap goes!

[hokeplaya05]

thanks man! still gathering parts for the swap, hoping to get it done before winter at this point but i am also looking to buy a house before winter as well so we'll see what happens first lol