The 4L60E transmission has been in production for over twenty years, even longer if you consider the fact that it came from the 4L60 (700R4). the “E” at the end of 4L60 indicates that it is electronically controlled.
4L60E Identification can be quite a chore since the transmission has been in production for so long.
The 4L60E was utilized in cars and light-duty trucks. The 4L80E was used for heavier-duty trucks. When it was introduced, the original small-block Chevy engine was still in production, and it was retained for the LS Gen III line of engines.
The 4L60E bellhousing can bolt to either engine, although you may need an adapter to get a Gen III transmission to bolt to Gens I and II and vice versa.
For the purposes of easy identification, we have broken the 4L60E into four distinct eras. These eras are easy to identify from the outside of the transmission.
Here are a few characteristics that all years share
- ALL 4L60E transmissions have a 12-pin connector from the harness. They can be purple or green, depending on the year
- They all are shifted by the vehicles ECM
- They all have aluminum cases
- No changes in gearing
Distinguishing Features
The 4L60E transmission is a popular choice in many vehicles due to its versatility and performance. To correctly identify a 4L60E transmission, there are several key features to look for.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Bellhousing: A primary distinguishing characteristic of the 4L60E is its bellhousing design. The earlier versions (1993-1997) had a one-piece case, while later models (1998 and up) featured a two-piece case. Observing this difference can help in identification.
Case Tags: Another useful method to identify a 4L60E transmission is by deciphering the case tags. These tags contain information such as the model year, assembly number, and production date. For example, the first digit signifies the year (e.g., 4 = 2004), the second digit denotes the model, and the sixth to seventh digits represent the Julian date or day of the year.
Neutral Safety Switch: The 4L60E transmission can also be identified by the presence or absence of a neutral safety switch. Comparing pictures of 4L60E transmissions with and without the switch can assist in recognition.
4L60E One Piece Case Identification: 93-97
The one-piece case 4L60E was produced from 1993 through 1997. This is the easiest way to identify it. The 4L60 is the latter model 700R4 transmission, only the name changed, if you think you may have a 700R4 look here to identify it.
GM changed its naming nomenclature into a universal standard across all of its product lines. The 4 stands for four-speed, L stands for Longitudinal (for a rear-wheel drive vehicle), and 60 is the torque capacity.
60 is supposed to be for 600 pound-feet of torque that this transmission can handle. Although, everyone would agree that the transmission got better as time went on.
Making Sure Your Early 4L60E isn’t a 700R4
If the transmission that you are looking at has a one-piece case, you’ll want to make sure that you don’t have a 700R4/4L60. In order to verify that you aren’t looking at a 700r4 you’ll need to verify that the transmission has a harness connection, and not a TV Cable. At that point you can be certain that you have identified a 4L60E.
If you have a one-piece case transmission and you’d like to confirm that It is a 4L60E you’ll need to look at the code on the transmission.
Code Identification on Early 4L60E’s
The year code starts over every decade, but it’s not an issue because they have a two-piece case in the 2000’s. You can now jump down to the year identification guide. The 4L60E uses a dust cover similar to that used on the TH350 or TH400 transmissions.
- Four bolts connect the tail shaft (or transfer case) to the transmission.
- The vehicle speed sensor changed locations during the production run. From 1993 to 1995 (Corvette till 96’), it was on the driver’s side of the tail shaft. From 1996 and up, it moved to the passenger side.
- There is an information sticker on top of the bell housing at the very top of the transmission. It is impossible to read with the transmission in the car. It is very easy to read. But, if you are looking at a transmission in the car, or if the sticker has been removed, you’ll find that it has also been machined into the passenger side of the transmission at the rear corner above the pan.
- These have the classic 6 bolt bellhousing like the other classic transmissions that came before it.
- This version, as well as the 96-99 4L60E uses a 298mm input shaft/torque converter.
4L60E Two-Piece Case Identification: 1996-1999
The major difference between the two-piece case 4L60E versions, is that the bellhousing bolts have slightly different patterns. This case is made to bolt up to the older legacy engine bolt patterns, such as the small-block Chevy. 9 bolts connect the transmission to the engine, which is three more than the 93-97 version.
- Six bolts are now used to connect the tail shaft.
- They only have three different types of bell-housings in North America. The most common of these is the 90 degree V6 and V8 Bellhousing. There’s also a 60 degree V6 bellhousing as well. The last bellhousing type is the special Corvette adapter.
- This version, as well as the 93-97 4L60E use a 298mm input shaft/torque converter.
- The vehicle speed sensor is still on the passenger side of the tail-shaft.
2 Piece Case Identification: 2000 and Newer
The 2000 and newer model looks virtually identical to its 96-99 predecessor, but there were many improvements made to strengthen the transmission. The major physical change is to the transmission bellhousing, this was in order to allow it to bolt to the newer LS series of engines.
- Still maintains the six bolt pattern at the tail shaft.
- The entire length of the transmission is ¾” longer.
- The ECM connector is green from 2000-2005, and purple from 2006 and up. The 2006 and up have a black input shaft speed sensor.
- While still compatible with the 1955 and up bolt pattern, the new LS series engines added a bolt hole at the very top, which is reflected on this bellhousing
- The input shaft and torque converter are now 300mm, which means that they are no longer compatible with each other.
The 4L60E transmission is both the physical and spiritual successor to theTH700R4. It was the workhorse of the GM automatic transmissions at the turn of the century. It began replacing the 700R4 (which was then known as the 4L60) in 1997.
They were both longitudinal transmissions with four forward gears and a reverse gear. The major difference between the two is the way the shifts are handled. The 4L60E uses computer control to shift. That is what the “E” stands for.
Instead of just knowing the throttle position to guess engine load, the ECM uses the sensors in the engine to know exactly what kind of load it is under. This allows for optimal shifts under all conditions, which improved fuel economy and engine life.
Resources:
- Here is a great video on Youtube from a guy who really knows his stuff.
- Here is a link to a forum on LS1tech.com. It has all of the codes on it.
- This is the most commonly used transmission for an LS swap, due to it’s relative affordability and availability.
4L60E Specs
| Manufacturer: General Motors |
| Production: 1992- Present Day |
| Type: 4 Speed Longitudinal Automatic |
Gear Ratios:
|
| Input Shaft: 298 mm |
| Torque Converter Lock: Yes |
| Overdrive: Yes |
| RPO Code: M30 |
| Outer Case Material: Aluminum, with a 2 removable bellhousing |
| Controlled by Computer: Yes: Controlled by the engines ECU |
| Weight: Roughly 133 pounds dry |
The gearing was a direct carryover from its predecessor. The 60 in its name refers to the fact that it was designed to handle 6000 pounds of gross vehicle weight. Although the acronym never changed, the 4L60E received continuous improvements throughout its existence. The later ones are certainly stronger.
What are the differences in 4L60E transmissions through the years?
The 4L60E transmission has undergone several changes since its introduction in 1993:
- 1993-1994: Early versions feature a removable bellhousing and onboard vehicle speed sensor (VSS).
- 1995-2005: This period saw significant changes and improvements, including a switch to the LS1/LSx engine platform in the late ’90s. Various updates were made to the valve body, separator plate, and accumulator springs in subsequent years.
- 2006 and later: GM introduced the 4L70E, an upgraded version of the 4L65E, offering better performance for certain applications.
Conclusion
In order to identify these transmissions, one can follow several steps:
- Determine if your transmission is a one-piece case, which was produced between 1993 and 1997. This is the easiest way to differentiate it from the earlier 700R4 model.
- Check the transmission’s torque rating, which should be up to 360 ft-lb (490 N·m) and weigh 133 pounds without fluid.
- Notice the difference in the bell depth: 6.5″ depth with 6 bolts for non-gen 3 LS applications and a 7″ depth with 7 bolts for LS applications.
- Look for the presence of 2 shift solenoids, known as Shift Solenoid A and B for the 4L60E family.
Finally, remember that the primary difference between the 4L60 and 4L60E is their control mechanism. The 4L60E is controlled by a computer, whereas the 4L60 is controlled by a TV cable. It’s important to note that these transmission models are not interchangeable and require proper identification for the smooth functioning of your vehicle.
By following these guidelines, enthusiasts and professionals alike can accurately identify 4L60E transmissions and ensure optimal performance for their automotive projects.
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Great Information!
Thanks
I’ll check out your links too.
Where can i find info about the tag information my is 7KLD i want to know the KL stans for
You have a 4l60e 15 pin
The entry and exit angles of the hard cooling lines for the transmission change between the one piece casing and the two piece casing because I’m having a major PITA trying to get the cooling lines from my 97 single piece into the new two piece transmission I am installing
Can u change the plug in that goes into the transmission can you change that
Yes u can. I used a 2008 4L60E on my 2010 truck by changing the harness
Im looking at a 4CAD TAG 4l60e trans, but can’t find the identification info on the net to see if it can withstand a 02-06 5.3 LS. Was told it came from a 04 4.3 chevy 2wd truck? Has the bolt on bellhousing and tail shaft housing.
I HAVE A 2002 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500 EXTENDED CAB LT WITH A 5.3 VORTEC THAT TRANSMISSION LINE BLEW OFF AND I LOST ALOT OF TRANSMISSION FLUID IN ABOUT A TWO BLOCK DISTANCE OF DRIVING IT. I FIXED THE LINE AND CONNECTED IT BACK TO RADIATOR, PUT 4 QUARTS OF TRANS FLUID IN IT AND DROVE IT HOME (MAYBE 5 TO 8 MILES)WITH NO PROBLEMS. IT SAT OVER NIGHT WHEN I GOT IN THE NEXT MORNING IT HAD NOTHING, NO REVERSE, NO DRIVE TO AMOUNT TO ANYTHING AND AFTER A FEW MINUTES IT STOPPED PULLING ALL TOGETHER. I JACKED THE REAR END UP TO SEE IF IT WAS PUMPING AT ALL AND BACK RIGHT TIRE DOES SPIN AS THOUGH PULLING, BUT WHEN YOU HIT GAS PEDAL IT STOPS THE WHEEL ALL TOGETHER.
Takes 11 quarts
I’ve got a 2008 avalanche and two transmission and one torque converter how am I to know?
I have a 1991 Camaro with a swapped LT1 engine and a 700R4 tranny. looking to put an M30 4L60E in it. are there any issues I need to address?
I have a 2003 Chevy 4 wheel drive extended cab Silverado what other year Transmissions will work in it
Do you know the life expectancy of a 2008 4L60E transmission?
Looking to buy a used 2008 Chevy Trailblazer LT1 8 cylinder 5.3L with about 140k.
Stay away from those trailblazers the engines are sh*t
Man what caused you to post this I have 02 and it has a 190000 on engine and it is the best thing about the truck if I can just get transmission to cooperate I think I will have something to drive for a few years just my experience sorry you had a bad one if I can help with anything please email me thanks Ray White
I have an 02 Chevy Avalanche 4 x 4 trying to find another transmission for this vehicle didn’t know what years I could interchange transmission is a 4 l 60 e thanks
2000 to 2006 4l60e will work in your vehicle.
too many changes to the 4l60e throughout the years to ask questions on a online forum. Hard to tell good info from miss info, I know this didn’t help but that’s my two cents. Transmission bench on that one channel is a great one for
the 4l60e.
I have 1998 GMC Z71 truck my question is the 1999 Chevrolet 4X4 Ext Cab Truck Transmission compatible with my 98 GMC?
It’s possible. They change case design in 1999 but there are some 98s that have the 99 to 06 4l60 in them due to their “year” starting mid year.
The engines are different the went from SBC to LS 98-99 older body style SBC newer LS.
I’m trying to put a 02 4l60 in my 98 right now so dare I’ve had change fly wheel just hoping that it will work right died anyone think I’ll have any problems
can i put an 03 trans in an 09 both are GMC sierras both are 4l60es
After reading what you said could be the problem I checked the connections under my seat it turned out one of the connections had become dislodged. Pushed it back in place and the light went out straight away.
Thanks for your information can’t go to the dealership as their closed due to CVD problem. Probably would have been ripped off anyway.
O I forgot the problem was the air bag light was staying on constantly 2018 Nissan X Trail
Thanks again 😊😊👍
My ac clutch won’t engage. I seen online that you can manually bridge the relay with a paper clip and it will engage the clutch. It did that, and it worked, everything ran fine. I changed the relay out and it still wouldn’t work. I put a new pressure switch on it but it still won’t engage normally. The refrigerant is fine too. What could it be?
Hey I’m having trouble getting my 4l60 e it will go into gear but won’t upshift, I swapped tranny and since that it stays in one gear, it does reverse just curious what I should try to do hoping it don’t mean that tranny is bad too
Have you found out yet I am only getting reverse in my trailblazer and it is rebuilt like 2 months ago
I’m having the same problem. I have Reverse and 1st but won’t upshift. I have the RPO c,ode: M30 Plus the additional MX0 which is defined as a Merchandised Transmission> I think equates to Overdrive. Have you solved your problem? I’d be interested to know if you have solved your problem and what the problem was..
Check the fitness of the harness plug on the switch you replaced. Not sure which pressure switch you replaced, as there is a high pressure and low pressure. You can bypass the low pressure switch in the same fashion as you did for the relay. You say the refrigerant is fine too, but if you replaced a pressure switch the refrigerant would have come out. Did you get it recharged?
The low pressure switch will be on the receiver/drier or somewhere on the low pressure line, the high pressure switch is usually located on the high pressure line near the condensor or near or on the compressor itself.
On my Dodge and my son’s Chevy trucks we had to replace the plug on the low pressure switch with a new “pigtail” as it wasn’t making good contact and would also come loose while driving especially on bumpy roads. Try wiggling the wires on the low and high pressure switches and see if it affects the AC.
You can test the switches with an ohmeter while the ac is running. I don’t know if there any spec.s available, but if they are open (ohm reading of infinity) they would need to be replaced. The low pressure switch will open if the internal pressure gets too low, likewise the high pressure switch will open under high pressure; this protects your ac system and it will make the AC compressor cycle on and off. You can verify this with an ac gauge set and watching the high and low side readings. They should climb fairly quickly, then taper off when the compressor kicks out, then rise again when it kicks back in.
I own a 04 deville and in process of replacing the 2 check valves for the secondary air injection system. I ordered 1 valve from one supplier and the other from another manufacturer (gm). Much to my surprise they both are the same with different GM part numbers. How come?
It’s not the battery. It has something to do with the key
Is a 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe 2wd 4l60e transmission interchangeable with my 1996 gmc suburban 4×4 which also has 4l60e transmission , both engines are 5.7l
I dont believe so . the output shaft size (in my experience) is not the same 4×4 being slightly bigger, simple solution is to change the transfer case with the tranny, if both are identical . check output shaft size diameters!!!!!! only other thing to check is the plug in to the tranny , same color same number of pins=ok
Is a 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe 2wd transmission interchangeable with my 1996 gmc suburban 4×4 , both trucks have 5.7l engines
Will need to change the shafts out since one is 2wd and the other is 4wd. They cost about $50 and of course you need to have someone who will do it for you. Best of luck!
I have a 95 GMC c1500 truck.
Has a 6.5 non turbo diesel.
What year 4l60e will fit?
Ford ecosport titanium 2014 has problems with ABS for only 80000 km. Very disappointed problem.
Can somebody decode this transmission tag for me 4L60E trans 9CED
I have a 2003 GMC Sonoma 4.3L 2wd that needs a transmission. What other years and makes are compatible?
Did you ever have any luck on your transmission. My 03 just lost 3rd & 4th. I found another one but it came out of a 99 suburban & don’t want to take mine apart unless I know it will work.
Hi I got a 2012 Chevy 1500 4.8L with the transmission gone and I have a transmission out of a 2005 Chevy 5.3L would anyone be able to tell me if this transmission would work in my newer truck?
Hello, I have a 2008 jeep grand cherokee limited, V8 with 5.7 that sat for almost 2years before I bought it, I have fixed the water pump, change the spark plug and others, but yet it brings white smoke from the exhaust that will block others behind me to see their way, and when accelerating it jerk and sometimes stepping on the gas it will take a second before accelerating. Please what do you think is the cause
I have a 2000 ford Taurus the steering wheel is tight plus it schimees tired of throwing money into it. what should I do
I have 02 Sonoma 4.3L 4×4 crew cab, changed the torque converter and torque converter solenoid and all shift solenoids filter and gasket. My transmission is still acting like it doesn’t have any power. the RPMs go up very high and hesitates to move and takes a long time to pick up speed. also shifts hard second to third and does not seem to shift in to forth. The shift from first to second is usually normal. can anybody tell me what’s wrong.
If u changed the transmission good chance u need the computer reprogrammed
Does anyone know which 4L60e transmissions would replace the one in my 2007 Chevy Express AWD? Would a transmission from a 2006 4×4 Sierra work?
I’ve been told that the 1995 GMC 4L60E tranny is year specific. No tranny made before ’95 will work nor can one after ’95 fit because of a change in the wiring harness (it being some type “experiment” for ’95 only). What number of pins are in the ’95 electrical connection?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
I think it’s a 15 pin plug and two wires change on the plug fro 95 to. 97 it’s a white wire and a tan and black wire change places on the plug that the only change in transmission,as far as 4l60e is those two wire pull the pins and swap spot on the two wires only one is a tourq converter sensor and one is a shift selinoid
I have a 2007 h3 hummer base model. Had transmission rebuilt (Pro).My problem is that when it gets around 35 degrees in winter time, I half to go from 3 gear, 2 gear, then into drive before it goes.(It will move in 3gear and 2nd. gear.) Any idea as to why this happens?