Researching 4L80E to NV4500 Transmission Swap

[trbankii]

Looking at Hypertech’s chips, they do LIST separate chips for automatic vs. manual transmissions.

Near as I can figure out, you need the PROM and possibly the CALPAK from a manual transmission vehicle to plug into the ECM - or the whole ECM with the proper PROM and CALPAK.

Unfortunately, it looks like you have to physically change the chips as the early ones aren’t able to be reprogrammed.

[trbankii]

Ok, it looks like I have to track down a ECM or PROM and CALPAK from a truck with a manual transmission to make the swap. How close does that have to be? Any K1500 GMC with a manual transmission - pickup or SUV? The pickups are rare enough with a stick - I’m guessing the SUVs are unicorns if they even exist.

[trbankii]

And am I limited to GMC? Or would a Chevy version work?

[DmaxMaverick]

And am I limited to GMC? Or would a Chevy version work?

They are one and the same, features for features.

[trbankii]

Thanks, Maverick. Does the pickup ECM work or is there anything specific about the SUV version?

[DmaxMaverick]

Simply, it will work as-is. However, because it's a SUV, it may have some features that are ECM dependent not present on a pickup. Much depends on the year model and optioned features. There are no manual tranny SUV's, so there will be no out-of-the-box solution. If you just plug it in and run it, you will see a continuous SES lamp, and may be forced into limp mode (not at a time of your choosing).

I do not recommend "pulling the bulb", as the SES lamp is a diagnostic tool that will alert you of other, more serious issues that may lead to damage, or worse.

What I would suggest......
Keep It Simple (and probably less expensive, all told). Contact Kennedy and purchase a power chip. He can adjust the program to eliminate the transmission monitoring (and other annoying EPA required features), while remaining specific to your model. A little boost in power and economy would be an added bonus.

[trbankii]

Ok, that makes sense. I was starting to see my search for an ECM to swap in becoming a lost cause. Most of the ECMs on eBay say to swap in your current chips - or just give a part number and say that you’re responsible for determining if it is an applicable use.

The other option would be to do the MFI swap. That would eliminate all the electronics...