I need to get a 4L80 in my truck but money is a bit tight after the holidays. I wish I had the 4 grand for a L5 and all misc swap parts but I don't so I am tring to save some dough by doing a salvage yard swap. I have found a low milage (37K) '05 in A-grade condition or a high mile (122K) '02 in B-grade condition for about $250 less. I have looked thru the several rebuild threads and I feel confident I can do it but would require the purchace of a few special tools. My questions are:
1.) is the value of a complete rebuild worthwile after buying the used trans, upgrade parts and special tools?
2.) Is there a 'valve body only' shift kit available for the 80 and is it worthwile to install? From what I have read the HD-2 requires a complete disassembly of the trans to change the drum spring packs. I installed a TransGo in my 4l60 several years ago which was all valve body mods sans the boost valve in the pump.
Third option would be to aquire the low milage tranny and install as is. Note that I am planning on ~750rwhp with the new setup once it is all said and done.