
Why is my 4L60E transmission slipping? Because of mainly low fluid level or a slipping torque converter clutch, or slipping clutch or band within the transmission. This is a common issue with many GM vehicles using the 4L60E transmission, and the odds are high it will not require overhaul.
How much does it cost to rebuild a 4L60E transmission?
The cost of rebuilding a 4L60E transmission will vary depending on the specific model and year of the transmission. You can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,000 for the parts and labor. Final Verdict: How Much Is A Rebuilt 4l60e Transmission.
What is normal temp for 4L60E?
Only show this user. According to the owners manual for newer Silverado pick-ups (those with a 4L60, 4L80 or a 6L80 transmission): the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 82°C to 93°C (180°F to 200°F). It goes on to state that if the temp goes above that you need an external auxiliary cooler.
How to install a torque converter on a 4L60E transmission?
- First, hold the torque converter horizontally and face down (bolt holes facing towards the ground) so that the fluid will not drain back out.
- When ready to insert on the input shaft, turn the converter vertically with the bolt holes facing towards you. ...
- Continue to gently push on the torque converter and slowly rotate it back and forth. ...
How to test Shift Solenoid 4L60E?
How To Test Shift Solenoid On A 4l60e. One very easy way to test your shift solenoids is actually with a simple 9v battery to see if the solenoids are being activated. When using this method you’ll need a 9v battery and a pair of test leads. When testing your shift solenoids, the first step is to remove the plugs going into the solenoids from ...

How do you fix a transmission that is slipping?
1:504:13How to Fix a Slipping Transmission in Your Car (Fluid Change) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou just pulled the pan out and as you can see there's a lot of black crud inside then go back ontoMoreYou just pulled the pan out and as you can see there's a lot of black crud inside then go back onto the transmissions on the GM's the filter just pulls. Right off and you replace them due.
What are common problems with 4L60E transmission?
4l60e Transmission Common ProblemsNo Third Gear. A 4l60e with no third gear is a common issue that many encounter, especially in heavier vehicles or those that endure more stress than others, such as in race or towing applications.No Reverse or Second Gear. ... 4L60E Lost All Gears. ... Noisy Transmission. ... No third or Fourth Gear.
How do you tell if a 4L60E is going bad?
3 Symptoms Of A Failing 4L60E Transmission And How To Diagnose The ProblemsNo Third Gear – You put the vehicle in drive, start off the transmission, and shift to second gear. ... No Second Gear/Reverse – The second most common symptom of a failing 4L60E transmission is your inability to shift to second gear and go reverse.More items...•
Can a slipping transmission Be Saved?
You can solve transmission slipping yourself if it's simply low fluid, burnt or ineffective fluid, or transmission leaks. This will often require you to either check the fluid, change the fluid, or fix the transmission leak.
How do I know if my shift solenoid is bad 4L60E?
The main symptoms of a bad or failing shift solenoid include:Check Engine Light.Transmission Warning Light.Shifting delays.Skipping gears.Stuck in gear.Downshift or Upshift Issues.Limp mode.
How do I reset my 4L60E transmission?
How to Reset Your Transmission Control ModuleFirst, turn your key to “on.” Make sure your dash lights are visible. ... With the car on, but the engine not yet started, press the gas pedal all the way down.Hold the pedal down for about 10 seconds.Turn the key off, but don't remove it.Release the gas pedal.More items...•
What happens when a transmission control module goes bad?
Bad Transmission Control Module Symptoms Slow Acceleration: It takes longer than normal for your vehicle to pick up speed. Gear Slippage: Your transmission switches gears without warning or without you shifting. Inability to Shift: You can't shift out of neutral.
How can I make my 4L60E transmission stronger?
Now, let's dive in:Lay out the important parts on an assembly bench. ... Rebuild with an improved, thicker sun shell. ... Use five-pinion front/rear planetary. ... Use a larger clutch with an input drum reinforcement sleeve. ... Stamped Steel forward clutch apply pistons. ... Use more clutches and larger gear band servo pistons.More items...•
Can a torque converter make a transmission slip?
1. Slipping. A torque converter can slip out of gear or delay a shift its fin or bearing is damaged. This is because the torque converter changes the engine's torque into hydraulic pressure that is required to ship the transmission's gears.
Can a transmission flush Fix slipping?
Can a Transmission Flush Fix Slipping? A. Yes, your fluid might be the issue, whether it's contaminated, too high, or too low. However, a flush is typically done with a professional machine at a shop, so it's not an easy home garage job.
Can a dirty transmission filter cause slipping?
When the transmission fluid isn't clean or is blocked by a clogged filter, the internal components won't have the lubrication they require to function properly. This could lead to shifting issues, grinding gears, slipping transmission or other common symptoms of transmission problems.
What is the best transmission stop slip additive?
Our pick for the best transmission additive is the Prolong Super Lubricants PSL15000. It is one of the best transmission additives on the market. It reduces leaks, shudders, slippage, and sludge buildup. For a less pricey option, consider the Lucas LUC10009.
Is the 4L60E a good transmission?
The 4L60E is one of General Motors' most versatile and durable 4-speed transmissions. It was formerly known as Turbo-Hydramatic 700R4 and is currently the electronic version that is popular today: 4L60E.
What controls shifting in a 4L60E transmission?
In the 4L60E the up-shifts are completely controlled by the PCM. The 4L60E can only do what it's told.
Can a 4L60E be used without a computer?
Externally, all it needs is a 12-volt source and an engine-vacuum reference. However, if your trans is, in fact, a 4L60E, running it off a computer is mandatory. On "E" transmissions, the computer controls everything: TCC lockup, gear changes, shift quality and firmness, and line pressure.
How often should you change transmission fluid in a 4L60E?
How Often To Change 4l60e Transmission Fluid. It's recommended to replace transmission fluid every 30-50,000 miles depending on use and transmission condition.
How Much Transmission Fluid Does A 4L60E Hold
For those of you running a stock 4L60E transmission, it has a dry capacity of 12 quarts of transmission fluid. Although, this figure is based on th...
How To Convert A 4L60E To Non Electronic
By default, the 4L60E is an electronically actuated transmission, rather than adopting older hydraulic or mechanical designs. While there are plent...
How To Remove 4L60E 4x4 Transmission
Removing a 4L60E is a tricky process, especially for 4x4 vehicles. Begin by lifting up the vehicle, and keeping the engine running. Once it's warme...
How Many Gears Does A 4L60E Have
The 4L60E transmission has 4 forward gears and 1 reverse gear. One of the flaws of the 4L60E is the gearing ratios that it operates in. Its 1st gea...
Is The 4L60E A Good Transmission
Although we've noted down plenty of 4L60E transmission problems thus far, this is a fairly dependable and versatile transmission if well cared for....
Why Is The 4l60e A Bad Transmission? Is It The Worst Ever Made?
For many, the 4L60E transmission is a good transmission, but for others, it appears as if it is the worst transmission ever made. One GM owner stated: “My opinion is that the 4L60E is not the worst transmission ever made. Did you buy the truck new or used? If used, then one has no idea exactly what the transmission went through before you bought it.”
What does the number 4 in the 4L60E transmission mean?
The 4L60E transmission is equipped to withstand as well as a handle the max engine torque of 360 lb.-ft. Additionally, the 4L60E’s name states a tremendous amount about the transmission. The number 4 in the title indicates that the transmission is a 4 speed transmission. The L in the title signified that the transmission as an engine that sits longitudinally. The 60 in the name signifies that there is 6000 pounds of GVW.
How Long Do 4l60e Transmissions Last?
Different 4L60 owners offer their perspective on the longevity of the 4L60e transmission:
What Is the Difference Between A 4l60 And A 4l60e Transmission?
The biggest difference between the 4L60 and 4L60E is how both are controlled . For 4L60E control comes from a computer. For the 4L60, control comes form a TV cable. With one being controlled by computer and the other not, there are compatibility issues that the two have.
What causes a transmission to slip?
The Transmission Will Begin Slipping 1 Internal mechanical failure will be the cause of transmission ‘slippage’. 2 Your transmission fluid will appear at a low level. This is generally due to a fluid leak somewhere which will result in the transmission slipping.
Why is my transmission fluid low?
Your transmission fluid will appear at a low level. This is generally due to a fluid leak somewhere which will result in the transmission slipping.
Do 4L60E and 4L60 have the same gear ratio?
They have the same length. Both the 4L60E and 4L60 have the same number of gear ratios as well as the same number of gears.
What are Some Common 4L60E Transmission Problems?from motorverso.com
While most argue that the 4-speed 4L60E is one of the best transmissions ever to come out of a factory, it also has its haters. Despite a great reputation, there are a few things that are well-known to go wrong on a 4L60E.
Why does my 4L60E clutch stop working?from motorverso.com
It’s caused by the rubber seals on the 3-4 piston shrinking. This happens because of age, heat and general wear . This leads to the clutch pack getting too hot and, eventually, it will stop working. This is one of the most commonly reported 4L60E transmission problems.
Why is Electronic Shifting Better?from motorverso.com
There are very few drawbacks when comparing electronically-controlled transmissions to those controlled by hydraulics or mechanically.
Why won't my transmission come out of 1st?from motorverso.com
If you have no reading from the speedo and the transmission won’t come out of 1st, the most likely problem is the vehicle speed sensor ( VSS ). On-board diagnostics (OBD) may provide some light on this without having to take the transmission apart.
Why doesn't my transmission shift?from motorverso.com
If the transmission only shifts manually (and therefore doesn’t shift automatically ), there is probably a problem in either the PCM or one of the related sensors sending information to the PCM.
What does 4L60 mean?from motorverso.com
In 1990, GM altered its designations, and so the 700R4 was renamed “4L60”. This stood for: 4 forward gears. L ongitudinal applications (rear-wheel-drive) 60 00 lbs gross vehicle weight (GVW) – this means that the transmission can be safely used to haul 6,000 lbs of car along with it.
What does it mean when a transmission is kaput?from motorverso.com
Basically, the transmission is kaput. Usually, this represents a snapped output shaft, although it could be any major component of the transmission. If you can feel any play in the driveshaft, it indicates that the output shaft has broken.
Why is slow, slipping or no reverse a 4L60E transmission problem?
Because you wouldn’t want your 4L60E transmission to be responding slow or slip when put into drive. Also, sometimes the transmission is unable to go into reverse which is a problem with the 4L60E.
How to diagnose these common 4L60E transmission problems precisely?
If you want to pinpoint the cause then you can use a software diagnostic tool to be plugged into your transmission control unit but it is recommended to use one as written in the manual.
Why is 3rd or 4th gear shift failure a 4L60E transmission problem?
While driving on road if you experience a difficulty or complete failure while shifting from 3rd to 4th gear then your 4L60E transmission is surely having problems.
Why is torque converter clutch engagement/disengagement failure a 4L60E transmission problem?
If your torque converter or if you are not getting the desired response when you release the brake and press the throttle pedal then you are most definitely experiencing torque converter engagement or disengagement problems.
What transmissions did GM make before the 4L60?
Before the Late 4L60-E transmission, there was the Turbo 700R, which was introduced in 1982. The 4L60-E is GM’s successful continuation of the ever-improving 700R4 (aka “4L60” since 1990), introduced in 1982. The 4L60-E is the “E”lectronically shift controlled version of the 4L60. The Late 4L60-E was released in 1997 in and fully phased into wide use through GM by 1998 in both RWD car platforms (including the C6 Corvette) and trucks in both 2wd and 4wd configurations. (Most transmission models are not distinctively noted with the “E” since all GM transmissions are now also controlled electronically.)
How much does a 4L60E transmission weigh?
From bells to valve bodies, added solenoids, changes in pump and convertors. The 4L60E transmission weighs 146 pounds dry, and 162 wet.
What does a leaking front seal mean on a transmission?
Transmission must be removed and rebuilt. May have to replace converter also if hub is scored. Note that a leaking front seal usually means the bushing is walking out.
How to check if a transmission pump is broken?
Remove transmission and rebuild, or refill pan and find the leak. If out of fluid, avoid running the engine until the transmission is refilled to avoid pump damage. To check for pump failure, check fluid level with the engine off, then start the engine and recheck fluid level. If level does not go down when engine is running, the pump is broken.
Why is my trans loud when moving in reverse?
20. Trans seems noisy when moving in 1st and Reverse, noise goes away instantly if you shift to N or the transmission goes into 3rd gear: Reaction planetary is worn out due to high miles or insufficient lubrication. Not a critical failure, but not a good sign either. Transmission must be removed and rebuilt, sooner rather than later.
What is a 4L60 E?
The 4L60-E is the “E”lectronically shift controlled version of the 4L60. The Late 4L60-E was released in 1997 in and fully phased into wide use through GM by 1998 in both RWD car platforms (including the C6 Corvette) and trucks in both 2wd and 4wd configurations.
What is a 30. 1-2 shift?
30. 1-2 or 2-3 shift is slow/soft above part throttle: Transmission is on its way out. Transmission must be removed and rebuilt.
What transmissions did GM make before the 4L60?from twincharlotte.com
Before the Late 4L60-E transmission, there was the Turbo 700R, which was introduced in 1982. The 4L60-E is GM’s successful continuation of the ever-improving 700R4 (aka “4L60” since 1990), introduced in 1982. The 4L60-E is the “E”lectronically shift controlled version of the 4L60. The Late 4L60-E was released in 1997 in and fully phased into wide use through GM by 1998 in both RWD car platforms (including the C6 Corvette) and trucks in both 2wd and 4wd configurations. (Most transmission models are not distinctively noted with the “E” since all GM transmissions are now also controlled electronically.)
How much does a 4L60E transmission weigh?from twincharlotte.com
From bells to valve bodies, added solenoids, changes in pump and convertors. The 4L60E transmission weighs 146 pounds dry, and 162 wet.
What does a leaking front seal mean on a transmission?from twincharlotte.com
Transmission must be removed and rebuilt. May have to replace converter also if hub is scored. Note that a leaking front seal usually means the bushing is walking out.
How to check if a transmission pump is broken?from twincharlotte.com
Remove transmission and rebuild, or refill pan and find the leak. If out of fluid, avoid running the engine until the transmission is refilled to avoid pump damage. To check for pump failure, check fluid level with the engine off, then start the engine and recheck fluid level. If level does not go down when engine is running, the pump is broken.
Why is my trans loud when moving in reverse?from twincharlotte.com
20. Trans seems noisy when moving in 1st and Reverse, noise goes away instantly if you shift to N or the transmission goes into 3rd gear: Reaction planetary is worn out due to high miles or insufficient lubrication. Not a critical failure, but not a good sign either. Transmission must be removed and rebuilt, sooner rather than later.
What is a 4L60 E?from twincharlotte.com
The 4L60-E is the “E”lectronically shift controlled version of the 4L60. The Late 4L60-E was released in 1997 in and fully phased into wide use through GM by 1998 in both RWD car platforms (including the C6 Corvette) and trucks in both 2wd and 4wd configurations.
What is a 30. 1-2 shift?from twincharlotte.com
30. 1-2 or 2-3 shift is slow/soft above part throttle: Transmission is on its way out. Transmission must be removed and rebuilt.
Does adding fluid to a sprite fix the problem?
Adding Fluid did not fix the problem. At the beginning, it was shifting into third, would rev up to about 4000 revs, and then lock into gear and proceed as normal. Then it would start to slip in Overdrive.
Can you diagnose a transmission problem?
You really can’t guess here. If you have a transmission problem it CAN be diagnosed without throwing parts at it. Solenoids can be tested, pressures can be checked, and when you’re done you’ll have a VERY good idea of what the issue is. Unfortunately, transmission diagnosis is usually beyond the DIY due to the cost of the specialized tools that are often involved. That said, I’d recommend you take it in to have it properly diagnosed before you do anything. If you find the transmission to be bad, I’d recommend you get a replacement if you’re going to do it yourself. If the rebuild comes with a warranty and is cheaper, you might consider that option in stead. This is one of those times where a little money spent on diagnosis can go a long way toward a successful repair.
Why does my transmission keep slipping?
Low transmission fluid is probably the most common cause of why your transmission is slipping and probably also the easiest to fix. When the fluid level drops, the pressure required to engage the gears properly is reduced. This causes a strain during shifting, which causes it to start slipping and then overheating the transmission fluid.
How to fix a slipping transmission?
The first step you should take to fix your slipping transmission is to check the transmission fluid level and carefully inspect the condition. If the fluid level is low, but the color seems fine, you should first try to fill it up. If it is brown, you want to consider changing the fluid and the filter. If the fluid is black and smells burnt, you ...
What causes transmission fluid to slip?
Transmission slipping can also be caused by burnt transmission fluid. The burnt fluid smells like burnt toast and has an abnormally dark color. If the transmission fluid burns, it becomes ineffective.
Why does my transmission fluid burn?
Burnt transmission fluid occurs when your transmission is overheating, but it can also be a mix of very old transmission fluid combined with high fluid temperature. Worn parts can also cause black transmission fluid in the transmission that needs to be changed.
Why does my torque converter slip?
The most common problem with the torque converter is that it fails to build pressure to transfer the torque properly and it will therefore cause a slipping transmission.
How to check transmission fluid level?
Checking the transmission fluid is often super easy by just looking at the dipstick in the engine bay or check your service manual on how to check the transmission fluid level. Remember that the transmission system is a sealed system, and the transmission fluid should not disappear if it isn’t leaking.
How to tell if transmission is slipping?
Check Engine Light or Transmission light. Burnt smells. The most common sign when a transmission is slipping is that your engine RPM speed will not match up with the vehicle’s speed. If you owned your car for a while, you have probably learned how your engine behaves and when your transmission should shift ...
Why is my transmission slipping?
Here are some reasons your transmission is slipping. If your transmission is slipping, grinding, making loud sounds that you know are just bad, chances are it needs a thorough diagnosis. Low, worn out or burned transmission fluid. Solenoid problems. Worn or broken transmission bands.
Why do transmission bands slip?
Transmission bands and clutches must engage and release in precisely regulated time for the transmission to perform optimally. Transmission bands can become worn or broken, which will cause the transmission to slip. Bands are what link the gears in the automatic transmission together. To fix this problem, the defective bands should be replaced.
What happens if a torque converter fails?
Transmission fluid must flow through the torque converter at the right times and amounts – if it fails, the transmission will not only start slipping, it might display other problems, such as just not going into gear, burning, smoking, jumping gears while driving, or blowout.
Why does transmission fluid wear out?
Low or burned out transmission fluid is a major cause of gear wear and tear. Over time gears can wear out – especially if they have been running hot and inefficiently due to lack of or worn out transmission fluid.
What happens if the solenoid malfunctions?
If the solenoid malfunctions, not enough fluid is pumped into the transmission, which will result in the transmission overheating and slipping.
How to tell if you're slipping?
There are some common signs that you can look for. Signs of slipping can appear in a number of forms when you are driving, or even sitting at idle. Signs include: Engine revs or chugs. Slow, weak or delayed acceleration. Difficulty shifting gears or hard shifting. Grinding, whining or other strange noises.
Where does the torque converter connect to the transmission?
The engine and transmission connect at the bell housing, which contains the torque converter for automatic transmissions, as opposed to a clutch for manual transmissions. The torque converter joins the engine and the transmission so the wheels will turn.
