4L80E Transmission Interchange Chart: (Make, Model & compatible year)

Checking out the 4L80E transmission interchange chart is the first thing you may want to do before interchanging. Many forums discuss the matter, but I know there is no definite answer. There I move ahead, and here is what I found. 

Generally, the 4L80E transmission is mechanically compatible with Chevrolet-style GM engines. Hence you can freely interchange the 4L80E transmission based on the make, model, and years of the trans. 

So, if you want to interchange your 4L80E transmission instead of paying thousands to replace the whole trans like me, then I am here today for your assistance. Keep on reading. 

4L80E Transmission Interchange Chart

You know, recently, I purchased a 2000 C3500 CCLB. It is a 4L80E transmission vehicle, and I was pretty sure that it was toast. 

So essentially, I decided to have the compatible year of the 4L80E transmission that will interchange with my year model. 

I have a deep search to accomplish the task, and here is what I get.

Factors Affecting Interchangeability 4L80E Transmission

In 1991 the 4L80E started its journey and continues till today. Since then the 4L80E transmission has not had any major changes over the years. So, as a result, they are mostly compatible.

But it is also a point to be noted that the 4L80E transmission has added some new features compared to its predecessor. 

Such changes include electronic controls, lock-up torque converter, or overdrive capability. 

These are the factors that can affect the interchangeability. That is why, I like to highlight 4L80E differences based on years.

#1- (1991- 1993) 4L80E Transmission 

They are essentially similar and interchangeable. They are also known for having a crappy connector. 

Although most of them have been updated by now, some are not and may need replacing the connectors. 

The transmissions have older-style lubrication and have cooling lines behind the bell housing. 

Besides 1991- 1993 4L80E transmission has a larger overdrive clutch with a 16-element sprag. 

These are the early transmission and do not contain provisions for bolting MLPS [manual lever position switch]. 

These are the factors that can have little effect while interchanging, right? 

#2- (1994- 1996) 4L80E Transmission

These trans are the same as the 1991- 1993 4L80E transmission with a little difference. 

The 4L80E transmission has updated the EPC or electric pressure control solenoid in these models. 

Among the transmissions, some even have longer shift shafts for the manual lever position switch or MLPS. 

So you should consider the factor while interchanging your trans. 

Also, refer to the Nissan transmission interchange chart if you have one and plan for interchanging. 

#3- (1997- 1999) 4L80E Transmission

The 1997- 1999 4L80E transmissions have been updated to the new style of lubrication. It has one oil cooler behind the bell housing. 

The 4L80E transmissions of these years also use the same bell housing bolt pattern from the previous years. 

Hence in these years, lubricating and cooling systems have been different from the previous ones.

#4- (2000- 2003) 4L80E Transmission

In the case of the 2000- 2003 4L80E transmission, you will find all the things are the same from 1991 to 1999. 

So what about the difference? It is just in the bell housing pattern. In these years, the bell housing pattern has been updated to LS style. 

#5- (2004- Up) 4L80E Transmission

Same as the earlier years of the 4L80E transmission with a bit of change in the valve body. 

So keep in mind this matter while interchanging the 2004- Up 4L80E transmission with the others.

By the way, just for extra knowledge, the 4L80E transmission was almost similar to the 4L60 transmission. 

The only difference is that the 4L80E transmission was made for heavier loads. 

Still, you may need the 4L60E transmission interchange chart before swapping the trans.

Common Issues May Arise When Interchanging 4L80E Transmissions

In the case of interchanging transmission, I heard that many of the users face many difficulties. 

It is because other trans have significant changes over the years affecting their interchangeability. 

That is why I decided to try to know the issues I may face while interchanging my 4L80E trans. 

So I asked the experts and they say that the users may encounter several problems in interchanging the 4L80E transmission if they are not properly built. 

If the transmission is properly built, lubricating circuit changes will not be any more extensive issue as the transmissions are interchangeable.

If not, the main issue will be overheating and maintaining the service of the trans. 

Besides if you run your trans with low fluid, tear down will occur and the gear will shift hard or not at all.

Incidentally, I suggest you can also check the 4T65E transmission interchange chart so as not to face any issues while interchanging or swapping if you have one. 

Tips For Successfully Interchanging 4L80E Transmissions

Interchanging the 4L80E transmission is not an easy task. So it is always better to seek the experts’ help doing the job. 

Still, if you are confident in your expertise, you can move ahead to interchange your trans by yourself. 

Here are some useful tips that you can follow up on . 

• Try to purchase your 4L80E transmission from a trusted and experienced source or person. 
• Consider little factors like bell housing or lubricating circuit while interchanging 4L80E transmission. 
• Ensure the parts are properly built. 
• You can also go to the junkyard and rebuild the transmission.
• Flush the transmission oil after interchanging. 
• After interchanging or rebuilding your 4L80E transmission, flush the transmission oil every 500 miles.

Final words

That is all from me today. I hope you get all the information about the 4L80E transmission interchange chart.

If you still do not understand the interchange of the 4L80E transmission, then you can just plan to go to the junkyard. 

The junkyards have cross-reference chat, and they are the people who know the best what fits with what. 

So either you can get another 4L80E transmission to replace or the parts with their help.

Video References

Transmission Bench

Rasel

Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering

Education: Mechanical  engineer

Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA

Rasel is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.