Rick_Vor

iTrader: (36)

Any advantage to changing from the AWD to a 4WD transfer case? I did a couple searches but I couldn't find anyone that has done the conversion.

I had my pumped up 4L65E freshened up (4th starting slipping again) so it's time to shop for a 4L80E. I've ran into a couple that also have the push button transfer case. It would be nice to be able to use 2WD for the MPG and I would be able to throw it on a dyno but is there any reliability/strength benefits? Any problem driving around in 4 wheel high on the highway (75-80mph commute)?

thanks, Rick

tarinitup

iTrader: (11)

I bet you'll be fine with either transfer case and it comes out to whatever you like more. I'd do a 4wd so you can have fun and dyno when needed and also have traction at the push of a button.

dewmanshu

iTrader: (4)

See I love my 4wd but everybody I know that has AWD loves their AWD and wouldn't want 4WD. I will say it is different. Doing 70 on the highway is WAY more noticable in 4wd vs AWD. AWD definitely is...uhm..less "grindy" feeling if that makes since. As far as fun, I hardly use my steering wheel to make turns when I am under 20mph.

Darky

Commuting in 4 Hi shouldn't be a problem, so long as you're in snow or some other very low traction surface. Generally a true 4wd part time doesn't like turning when it has traction. Also, you may need to keep the speeds below 75-80 with a part time case. I'm not sure how the GM cases operate (my 4wd experience is in Jeep and my old Geo Tracker), but I know the Tracker didn't recommend speeds above 55 in 4Hi, the Jeep recommends lower speeds, but higher than 55 I think. But then, keeping the speed down shouldn't be a problem if you're using the 4wd for traction in snow etc since you shouldn't be doing 80 in snow anyways... AWD wouldn't have those issues but you also would be stuck turning the front axles/drive shaft all the time.

thunder550

iTrader: (70)

I don't think you'll notice any MPG gain going awd vs 2wd...either way, you still have to turn the transfer case and that's what robs the power and extra fuel. If I were in your position I'd just stick with what I got...I don't see much advantage to swapping other than the "cool" factor of being able to do 2wd burnouts.

Wilde Racing

iTrader: (26)

being able to easily dyno it...

Rick_Vor

iTrader: (36)

Got a chance to talk to Rick at Synergy about it yesterday. He also recommended keeping the AWD. He said the AWD units launch with much less wheelspin than the 4WD models. I know even when I load the stock converter to 2000 rpms and 6-7 lbs of boost, I get no wheel spin other than a little chirp (my 0-60 is 4.46 in a crew cab). Bad part is now I have to buy a $400 27 spline output shaft for the 4L80e instead of a $250 32 spline input shaft for the 4WD transfer case.

Rick

AKlowriderZ71

iTrader: (22)

I drive 80-85 mph in 4x4 all the time during the winter. I wouldn't do it on dry roads, but for winter in the AK, no problemo. The drivetrain certainly can handle it.

thunder550

iTrader: (70)

I thought the t-case input gears were all the same?

Justin @ EAD Performance

iTrader: (33)

I wouldn't do the 27 spline output shaft in the 4L80e. There have been numerous failures. Get a 32 Spline Input Gear for the NVG149.