[C1] 4L60E installed in stock C1 frame?
10-23-2018, 08:07 AM
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Drifting
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4L60E installed in stock C1 frame?
Wondering if anyone is running (or has heard of) a 4L60E used in a stock C1 frame? From what I've read on the internet, it appears this transmission can be used behind a Gen 1 engine, with just an aftermarket torque converter that makes it a bolt on installation. I know there are numerous restos out there running this trans in custom frames, but never heard of one in a stock frame. Seems to be a better developed trans than the 200R4 or 700R4, but not sure it if will fit without butchering the tunnel, something I'd like to avoid.
Butch
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10-23-2018, 08:42 AM
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Le Mans Master
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Butch, the 700r4 and 4160E are basically the same transmission physically. However, the 4160E is computer controlled so it requires an ecu or separate electronic controller in order to know when to shift, while the 700r4 uses a TV cable (think of it as a mechanical throttle position sensor). They both use a one piece case with the same dimensions and transmission mounting point. Minor modifications to the mount are required to install either in a C1 (I have the 700r4 in my 1961), but the 4160E requires more complexity to install an electronic controller.
Last edited by Factoid; 10-23-2018 at 09:01 AM.
10-23-2018, 09:00 AM
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Le Mans Master
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The controller runs around $600 and requires some additional connections you don’t currently have with the most significant being a 0-5v tps signal and required tach input. A tps that mounts to your throttle bracket is available and most ignition boxes can provide the tach signal. It also provides a bunch in interesting options like paddle shifter controls, electronic speedometer, etc. Here are the installation instructions for one to give you an idea of the challenge at hand.
https://static.summitracing.com/glob...structions.pdf
The other option is the 4160. Frankly, it is the best of the 700r4 line as it has all the updates, bells, and whistles, but retains the mechanical TV cable vs. the electronic controller.
https://static.summitracing.com/glob...structions.pdf
The other option is the 4160. Frankly, it is the best of the 700r4 line as it has all the updates, bells, and whistles, but retains the mechanical TV cable vs. the electronic controller.
10-23-2018, 09:01 AM
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Drifting
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Thanks Factoid! I found the thread below by doing an internet search (I can't find sh*t using the forum search feature). Pretty well poo-poo's the 4L60E in my mind and suggests the 700R4 and 200R4 instead, just like you chose. I have issues with my legs sometimes and believe going AT could be a better option for me. Also, as I get older, something safer about just punching the gas and having to pay attention to steering and traffic and forgetting about RPM's. I know this sounds sacreligious for a vette, but as someone pointed out in another thread. The majority of the C-7 are ordered with AT; more than a few lessons to learn from that fact.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...in-a-62-a.html
Butch
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...in-a-62-a.html
Butch
10-23-2018, 09:13 AM
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Given both of my Corvettes are bastards, I have no issue with any mods that make them better. Both have power steering and power disk brakes up front. Both have much improved seating and interiors, but the ‘64 has more leg and headroom.
While I love my ‘64 with the M-21 4 speed, at my age (62) my left knee is sore at the end of a day of driving (as are my cheeks from the big grin). It is 520hp, raw and a ton of fun to drive.
My ‘61 is much more refined. Coilovers, r&p steering, and lowered. A 365hp 350 gives it some power. The auto makes it like driving my wife’s MB (well, maybe not quite). It lacks the raw get up and go of the ‘64 and it is a little more cramped than I would like. All that said, I would probably go for the non-electric version of the 4160 if I did it all over again, more for piece of mind than anything else.
Best of luck in your decision!
While I love my ‘64 with the M-21 4 speed, at my age (62) my left knee is sore at the end of a day of driving (as are my cheeks from the big grin). It is 520hp, raw and a ton of fun to drive.
My ‘61 is much more refined. Coilovers, r&p steering, and lowered. A 365hp 350 gives it some power. The auto makes it like driving my wife’s MB (well, maybe not quite). It lacks the raw get up and go of the ‘64 and it is a little more cramped than I would like. All that said, I would probably go for the non-electric version of the 4160 if I did it all over again, more for piece of mind than anything else.
Best of luck in your decision!
10-23-2018, 09:19 AM
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Drifting
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My biggest concern is fitment with the 4L60E or 4L60. I prefer no computer as I would like to keep it simple, but if those trans require more than minor tunnel modifications I would choose a different trans. Decided retro is not for me (thanks to a forum guru who showed me the light), but definitely going for bigger engine, trans, IFS, A/C, disc brakes and Dakota gauges, to make it a more fun driver. Just lining up the ducks before the project is started.
BH
BH
Last edited by Dreaming60’s; 10-23-2018 at 09:21 AM.
10-23-2018, 11:46 AM
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Wondering if anyone is running (or has heard of) a 4L60E used in a stock C1 frame? From what I've read on the internet, it appears this transmission can be used behind a Gen 1 engine, with just an aftermarket torque converter that makes it a bolt on installation. I know there are numerous restos out there running this trans in custom frames, but never heard of one in a stock frame. Seems to be a better developed trans than the 200R4 or 700R4, but not sure it if will fit without butchering the tunnel, something I'd like to avoid.
Butch
Butch
The 4L60E does require an electronic controller PCU to run. But if you also want a Holley EFI fuel injection system, the controller will run both the 4L60E transmission and EFI fuel injection system. You will need to also get an electronic distributor to run the new electronic tachometer. Crossmembers can be installed on a stock frame for transmission support.
10-23-2018, 12:04 PM
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Drifting
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Thanks Mike. So, it can be installed with an aftermarket computer or go with the straight 4L60 and use no computer, but any idea of the fit in a stock tunnel with the stock frame? It also sounds like although it can be done, it might not be the most economical for the results. KInd of like installing an LS3. The engine cost is just the tip of the cost iceberg, support systems add more than the engine.
BH
BH
10-24-2018, 12:51 PM
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Drifting
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Heard from a corvette friend (yeah, I actually have a few) and forgot he's running the 700R4, just like Factoid. He installed his without any issues and no issues since.So, it's unanimous, 700R4 is the A/T for me.
BH
BH
10-25-2018, 10:37 AM
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It might, but my only reason for switching from a Muncie, is to gain the OD. It has a 4:11 gear, that is fun below 50-55 mph, but miserable above that and I will be doing more highway driving in the future. Thought about a Tremec 5 spd., but also thinking to the future ,when an AT might be preferred.
BH
BH
10-25-2018, 08:41 PM
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