Before you purchase this transmission, you may wonder about the 6L80 transmission life expectancy to make sure you can really get a bang for your buck.
So, if you are thinking about buying a 6L80 transmission, or you are wondering if this is a good value for your money, then keep reading.
Today, we will discuss more about this transmission – its benefits, uses, and whether it is a good investment to consider or not. Let’s get started.
Understanding the 6L80 Transmission Life Expectancy
First, let us talk about the basics of the 6L80 transmission.
Basically, this is a 6-speed type of automatic gearbox. It is manufactured by General Motors and designed for use in AWD/ 4WD and RWD applications. This features a clutch to clutch type of operation and there is a wider gear ratio to ensure greater efficiency and excellent performance.
Certain vehicles use the 6L80 transmission such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Camaro, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, and the GMC Sierra 1500.
When it comes to its performance, it all boils down to how well you maintain it. Generally, certain issues can arise to this transmission such as reverse gear failure and slipping concerns. We will touch more on these issues shortly.
But if you keep it well-maintained, the transmission should last fairly long. It is all about proper maintenance and providing the right troubleshooting techniques to it when problems arise. Otherwise, the issue may continue to persist, which can be a big concern – in addition to how expensive it can get to repair or even replace the unit.
As for the strength of the 6L80 transmission, let’s talk about the amount of HP it is capable of handling. Basically, this transmission can handle up to 440 pound-feet of engine torque, as well as 664 pound-feet of output torque. There is no doubt that it is quite a good amount of power. This is why you can count on this transmission for high-performance requirements such as the Chevy Corvette and the Chevy Camaro.
In terms of weight, the 6L80 weighs 195 pounds (dry weight). But when filled with Dexron VI transmission fluid, it weighs about 230 pounds.
Problems With The 6L80 Transmission
There have been reports on issues with the 6L80 transmission. Here they are:
1. Reverse does not engage
If you select the reverse option, and yet your vehicle is still unable to move, it is possible that there is damage to the park prawl, which is the metal component that prevents the vehicle from moving or rolling. Either that, or your clutch is damaged and faulty.
2. Slipping in between gears
When you experience issues with slipping gears, perhaps when in reverse or between number 2 or 3, it is highly likely that there is a crack on the 1-2-3-3/5R drum. What this means is that you will have to replace the bearing and the drum as your only option.
3. Slipping in the first gear
Do you have a difficult time moving your vehicle coming from a complete stop? If so, then it could be that one of your solenoids is fixed in the off position. Either that, or there is an issue in your valve body.
4. Cracks in your 1-2-3-4 piston
The earlier versions of the 6L80 transmission are prone to develop some cracks and damages in the 1-2-3-4 piston. And in most cases, the cracks are in the piston. Thus, the best solution is to install an updated version of the 6L80 transmission 1234 piston, as well as a housing, which should address the issue appropriately.
5. Issue with the 4-5-6 clutch hub
Some damage can lead to a serious failure of your 4-5-6 clutch pump, in addition to your intermediate shaft. These are among the most common 6L80 transmission issues that can be quite serious and could impact your driving ease and experience.
6. Low sprag failure
When you have your vehicle in first gear, the transmission may seem as though it shifted right into neutral due to the low sprag failure. The only thing that is holding your output carrier in place is the low or reverse clutch.
7. Failed seals and cracks on the stator support shaft
Another issue with the 6L80 transmission is the stator support seal failure and cracks on the stator support shaft. When this happens, some problems may arise such as harsh shifts, clutch failure and delayed shifts. This is why it is best to have the stator support shaft inspected for damage symptoms and have upgraded seals installed to fix the issue.
Solutions To Consider
If you encounter issues with your 6L80 transmission, you may be seeking the most affordable solution to this problem. When you have your 6L80 transmission rebuilt, there are fewer components needed to be replaced. With a limited service life and a warranty that is up to 2 years, it may not be quite a good option.
On the other hand, used 6L80 transmissions are pulled out from a vehicle that has been wrecked. In this case, there is no guarantee on the lifespan if you are uncertain about the component’s history.
But with a remanufactured transmission, the original specifications of the manufacturer have been exceeded, which ensures a longer lifespan. This is why it is a far better option. The upgrade has improved the system and there are also other updated components such as the seal rings and the stator support shaft. Moreover, it has been tested fully for leaks, as well as balance, lockup, and concentricity.