The GM 4L80E 4-speed overdrive transmission is the ultimate overdrive platform to suit virtually combination that requires the strongest overdrive transmission possible. Hughes Performance has a 4L80E transmission available for practically any engine combination and power level. Our Street/Strip series 4L80E is a great choice for combinations producing up to 850 flywheel horsepower. We offer an upgraded Heavy Duty Street/Strip series 4L80E that is capable of withstanding 1,000+ flywheel horsepower. Finally, we also offer our max upgraded Extreme Duty Street/Strip series 4L80E that is rated for use with 1,500+ flywheel horsepower.
The 4L80E offers several significant advantages for a wide variety of applications. The 0.75:1 overdrive ratio provides a significant reduction in cruising RPM which will help contribute to a dramatic increase in efficiency. The 4L80E utilizes a lock-up torque converter which allows you to have the best of both worlds… high stall speed and maximum torque multiplication to maximize the performance potential of your combination, and lock-up function via an internal clutch which virtually eliminates all heat build-up in the converter at cruising speeds while providing even more efficiency in addition to the efficiency increases already provided by overdrive. Robust internal components provide strength and durability that cannot be duplicated in lesser overdrive transmissions such as the 700R-4, 200-4R, AOD, 4R70W, 4R100, 518/618, etc.
Selecting a Hughes Performance 4L80E transmission for your vehicle opens the doors to all kinds of possibilities. While we offer 4L80E transmissions for all popular GM V8 engines, we have also developed a custom bellhousing system for the 4L80E that allow you to install this transmission behind a wide variety of non-GM engines without the necessity for any bulky and poorly fitting adapters. With our custom bellhousing system we offer 4L80E packages for the following engines: modular Ford (4.6L, 5.0L Coyote, and 5.4L), small block Ford (including 289, 302, 5.0L, 351W, 5.8L, and 351C), big block Ford 385 series (429 and 460) and Ford Modified (351M and 400M). Each bellhousing system is fully SFI-certified and requires no external bellhousing shields when used in a drag racing application. Each bellhousing system allows the use of an original style starter in the original position.
We offer a variety of electronic transmission control units that take all the guess work, complexity, and intimidation out of retro-fitting a 4L80E into your vehicle. Some of our electronic transmission control units are pre-programmed and require no software, laptop, or PC for installation, tuning, or proper function. Each controller includes a pre-terminated wiring harness for simple “plug-n-play” operation. We offer models with an optional throttle position sensor (TPS) kit and mounting bracket that will work with virtually any carburetor, and also have models available that simply splice into an existing TPS on an EFI-equipped engine. Our premium controller is manufactured by Compushift and includes a simple hand-held calibration module that allows you to fine tune shift firmness, shift timing, lock-up function, and select between automatic and full manual operating modes. The Compushift module also provides a real-time display of transmission function data including range, fluid temperature, line pressure, etc. Paddle shifters are readily available and can easily be installed with either controller option.
For those customers that would like to avoid using an electronic controller we offer a full manual valve body option on all of our 4L80E transmissions. This option eliminates the necessity for an electronic controller, and requires the user to manually upshift and downshift the transmission in all modes of operation. The full manual valve body option features a forward shift pattern, and still retains the use of the lock-up torque converter which can be activated by a separate toggle switch or push button (not included). The torque converter can be locked up in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th forward ranges if necessary. We also offer a transbrake valve body option on all of our 4L80E transmissions. Our transbrake option can be built as a full manual unit or as an automatic unit with full automatic shifting capabilities when coupled with one of our electronic controllers. Both transbrake options feature a forward shift pattern, and still retain the lock-up torque converter function as well.
Want to retain your mechanical speedometer? We have that covered as well. While the 4L80E was never offered by GM with a provision for a mechanical speedometer drive, we do offer a custom extension housing that allows the use of TH400 speedo gears and a TH400 speedo driven gear housing. Custom machining is required on the output shaft for proper installation of this kit. All components are provided installed on your transmission when you order the mechanical speedo option on your Hughes Performance 4L80E.
With all these options available the only question you need to ask yourself is why wouldn’t you install a Hughes Performance 4L80E? We offer everything from a basic transmission and converter package all the way to a complete turn-key package including controller, dipstick and filler tube, cooler, cooler hose kit, fluid, mount, etc. We are also an authorized distributor for Precision Performance Products shifters. While other shifters can be made to work with a 4L80E transmission, Precision Performance Products is the only company to offer a true correct shifter cable mounting bracket and shift arm specifically for the 4L80E which will help make your installation as simple as possible. Call us today for a quote on a custom 4L80E package tailored specifically to your combination!
