Upgrade Your Transmission: 407 60 to 4080 Conversion Guide
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Reliability of the 4060 Transmission
- The Need for a 4080 Transmission
- The Benefits of Upgrading to a 4080 Transmission
- The Components Needed for the 4080 Conversion
- 5.1 The 4080 Transmission
- 5.2 Rebuild Kit
- 5.3 HD2 Shift Kit
- 5.4 Flex Plate
- 5.5 Wiring Harness
- 5.6 Cross Member
- 5.7 Drive Shaft
- 5.8 Oil Feed Lines and Dipstick
- 5.9 Adapter Harness
- 5.10 Stall
- The Installation Process
- Conclusion
- FAQ
🚗 Upgrading Your Transmission: Everything You Need to Know about the 4080 Conversion
Introduction
Are you looking to upgrade your vehicle's transmission for better performance and reliability? If you currently have a 4060 transmission and want to switch to a 4080 transmission, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll discuss the pros and cons of the 4060 transmission, the benefits of upgrading to a 4080 transmission, and provide a comprehensive list of all the components and steps needed for a successful 4080 conversion. So buckle up and let's dive into the world of transmission upgrades!
The Reliability of the 4060 Transmission
The 4060 transmission has proven to be a reliable option for many vehicle owners. It features a low-mileage rebuilt 4l60 with a Corvette Servo, making it a robust choice for everyday driving. With the addition of a trans cooler, the 4060 transmission performs even better, providing a smooth and reliable driving experience. However, if you're planning to boost your vehicle's power, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
The Need for a 4080 Transmission
As exciting as it is to increase your vehicle's power through boosting, it's essential to ensure that your transmission can handle the additional torque and horsepower. While the 4060 transmission has served you well, pushing it beyond its limits with a boosted setup could lead to potential issues and damage. Therefore, it's wise to invest in a stronger transmission that can handle the increased power. Enter the 4080 transmission.
The Benefits of Upgrading to a 4080 Transmission
Upgrading to a 4080 transmission comes with a range of benefits for performance enthusiasts. With the 4080, you can expect improved torque capacity and better gear ratios, allowing your vehicle to handle higher horsepower and torque outputs. This upgrade ensures that your transmission can support the increased power from boosting, delivering a smoother and more reliable driving experience. Additionally, the 4080 transmission offers the opportunity for manual transmission fun, making it a versatile choice for those looking to add some excitement to their vehicle.
The Components Needed for the 4080 Conversion
To successfully convert your vehicle from a 4060 to a 4080 transmission, you'll need several essential components. Let's break down each item and its significance in the conversion process:
5.1 The 4080 Transmission
The heart of the conversion is the 4080 transmission itself. While the price of the transmission can vary depending on your location and where you purchase it, a stock 4080 transmission typically ranges from $600 to $1,000. Look for a transmission that has been recently rebuilt or opt for high-performance internals to handle the increased power.
5.2 Rebuild Kit
To ensure the longevity and durability of your upgraded transmission, it's wise to invest in a rebuild kit. The price of a basic rebuild kit starts at around $250, while kits designed for high horsepower applications can range from $400 to $500. Choose a rebuild kit that suits your specific power needs and application.
5.3 HD2 Shift Kit
Adding an HD2 shift kit to your 4080 transmission will enhance its shifting performance. This affordable upgrade, priced at around $120, will provide smoother and crisper shifts, improving your overall driving experience.
5.4 Flex Plate
The flex plate is an essential component that connects the engine to the transmission. When choosing a flex plate, ensure compatibility with your engine type. Prices for flex plates range from $100 to $150.
5.5 Wiring Harness
To ensure proper communication between your 4l60 plug and the 4080 transmission, you'll need a wiring harness. Investing in a reliable wiring harness from reputable brands like ICT Billet or Michigan Motorsports is crucial to avoid any compatibility or functionality issues. Expect to spend around $90 to $120 for a quality wiring harness.
5.6 Cross Member
A new cross member will be needed to support the 4080 transmission in your vehicle. While some people opt to customize their existing cross member, purchasing a specified cross member for the conversion can save you time and effort. Cross members are readily available on platforms like eBay and Amazon, with prices ranging from $40 to $50.
5.7 Drive Shaft
For those building high-performance vehicles or engaging in racing activities, upgrading your drive shaft is highly recommended. The stock drive shafts of the 4060 transmission are known to have speed limitations, especially at speeds exceeding 100 mph. Getting a custom-made drive shaft will ensure optimal performance and safety. Prices for such upgrades can range from $750 to $1,000, depending on your location and specifications.
5.8 Oil Feed Lines and Dipstick
Don't forget to acquire the necessary oil feed lines and dipstick required for the 4080 transmission. These components play a crucial role in the proper functioning and maintenance of your transmission system.
5.9 Adapter Harness
To connect your 4l60 plug to the 4080 transmission, an adapter harness is necessary. This harness allows for seamless integration and ensures that your electrical systems work harmoniously. Ensure that the adapter harness you choose is compatible with your specific setup.
5.10 Stall
The inclusion of a stall converter will depend on your specific power goals and driving style. If you're building a high-performance vehicle or engaging in drag racing, a stall converter may be beneficial for increased launch and torque multiplication. Consult with a reputable transmission specialist to determine the best stall converter for your application.
The Installation Process
Once you have all the necessary components for the 4080 conversion, it's time to proceed with the installation. While the installation process can vary depending on your vehicle make and model, it generally involves removing the 4l60 transmission and replacing it with the 4080 transmission along with the associated components. If you're not familiar with transmission installations, it's recommended to seek professional help to ensure a smooth and successful conversion.
Conclusion
Upgrading your vehicle's transmission from a 4060 to a 4080 can significantly enhance its performance and reliability, especially when dealing with increased power from boosting. By understanding the components needed for the 4080 conversion and following the installation process accurately, you can enjoy a smoother and more exhilarating driving experience. Remember, investing in quality components and professional assistance will ensure the longevity and success of your transmission upgrade.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the stock drive shaft for the 4080 conversion?
A: If you're only performing a simple 4080 conversion without any major modifications, you may be able to use the stock drive shaft. However, for high-performance or racing applications, upgrading to a custom-made drive shaft is highly recommended to handle the increased power.
Q: Do I need a stall converter for the 4080 conversion?
A: The inclusion of a stall converter depends on your specific power goals and driving style. If you're looking for increased launch and torque multiplication, especially for drag racing or high-performance applications, a stall converter can be beneficial. Consult with a transmission specialist to determine the best option for your needs.
Q: Are cheaper wiring harnesses a good option for the 4080 conversion?
A: While cheaper wiring harnesses may seem like a tempting option, it's often better to invest in a reliable and high-quality wiring harness from reputable brands like ICT Billet or Michigan Motorsports. Cheaper harnesses may have incorrect pin configurations or manufacturing defects, leading to compatibility or functionality issues.
Q: Can the stock cross member be used for the 4080 conversion?
A: While it's possible to modify your existing cross member to accommodate the 4080 transmission, purchasing a specified cross member for the conversion can save you time and ensure proper support for the transmission. There are affordable options available on platforms like eBay and Amazon.
Q: How much horsepower can the upgraded 4080 transmission handle?
A: With the installation of high-performance internals, the 4080 transmission can handle more or less 700 horsepower. However, it's crucial to choose the appropriate rebuild kit and components based on your specific power goals and application.
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