I do realize you asked for opinions from anyone who has installed a 4L80E.
I have not. I did look into it. I have a 68 El Camino (I know, wrong forum, but I know the guys around here) and just sold the PG trans out of it. Building a very mild low torque 350 for it with a roller cam for longevity. It will have to tow my car hauler from time to time.
I looked at the 4L80e but decided on a 200R4 instead. It seemed like a much easier swap, not being totally electronic. Don't even have to change the driveshaft. Just have to dial in the TV cable and use a kit for the lock up converter. On the other hand, you will have to use a stand alone electronic controller on the 4L80E.
Now, back to teaching her to drive a stick. First, I should disclose, generally speaking, I hate automatics. The El Camino and my wife's MB are the only autos in our stable. I have converted 5 or 6 BMW's from auto to stick over the last 25 years. If there were a feasible way to convert the wife's CL600, I would do it.
Even if you are going to end up using an auto, you really should teach her to drive the stick. What if she ends up liking it? You're off the hook!!! My kiddos are grown now, but I taught each of them to drive using stick shift cars. Mind you, they had never driven an auto when they learned to drive with a stick. For many years, none of them would even consider a car without a stick. There is just something special about being that involved with your car.
Anyone install the 4L80E ??? Thoughts, doubts, comments????
