4.8 to 6.0 Swap

Tspark · November 3, 2016

Hello All,

I am new to the forum and looking for some advice. I am wanting to swap my 4.8l vortec with a 6.0l vortec. I also want to swap my transmission from a 4L60E to a 4L80E. I have done some research and everything i have read all connections from the harness to the motor and tranny will connect right up and all I would have to do is flash the computer for a 6.0 tune.

Now with my 6.0 I dont want a bone stock engine. I want to make some decent horsepower and torque at least over 400 on hp and about the same on torque. What mods should I do or start with. I am buying a engine to rebuild to my specifications once I narrow down, cam, pistions, etc.

Also because my truck is 4x4 should I change the differentials out?

Any feed back is appreciated.

Chris · November 3, 2016

No not everything on the trans will, also need a new driveshaft. You can run the 6.0 on a 60E. I am. My original made it to over 180,000 miles and 60,000 of those were with the LQ9 6.0. Also for a 4L80E you need a new crossmember, adapter harness, maybe a flex plate spacer, driveshaft due to length. Also since it is 4wd, something between trans and transfer case may need to be changed. Look at PATC. They have a lot of the swap parts

kstruckcountry · November 3, 2016

4L80 swap on a DD 4x4 is a myth.... I have never seen one on here, anyway. For the money to put in a 4L80, new crossmembers, 2 new driveshafts, wiring adapter, you can build a 4L60 that'll be just as tough without having to hack up everything.

I would swap in the 6.0, retune, and go from there. 6.0 is already a big power bump, no sense in adding more power until you've found what needs to be upgraded durability-wise.

Chris · November 4, 2016

4L80 swap on a DD 4x4 is a myth.... I have never seen one on here, anyway. For the money to put in a 4L80, new crossmembers, 2 new driveshafts, wiring adapter, you can build a 4L60 that'll be just as tough without having to hack up everything.

I would swap in the 6.0, retune, and go from there. 6.0 is already a big power bump, no sense in adding more power until you've found what needs to be upgraded durability-wise.

This here is a resource on what a 6.0 with a 4L60E can feel like.