Out with the 6L80, in with the 6L90!

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Hey everyone! Robbie here. I have an 08 Pontiac G8 GT that will be the test mule for this thing. As some of you may know there has been several threads strewn across the internet of people starting to attempt this particular swap, but every one of them came to a dead end, or guys decided to go with a different transmission. I am in a predicament now where I HAVE to do this swap from start to finish, and I figured all you guys would really like to know what all has to be done. The nice thing about this is that I own RHX Tuning here in Roswell so I will be able to inform everyone of what it takes not only to physically install the transmission, but also the amount of tuning that it takes to make it perform correctly. So here's the skinny;

I broke the transmission a few weeks ago, and I am in no way dissing the 6L80E. It handled over 600WHP for over 40,000 miles, so I am a happy camper. Recently I started doing a little bit of business with LMR, and I got offered up a deal that I absolutely could not refuse on a brand new Century built 6L90E that was initially going to be utilized in a Cadillac CTS-V. Knowing this transmission would still be able to offer me all the features that the 6L80E had, including TUTD, a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty, and the capability to handle in excess of 1000ft lbs of input torque in a 4000 lb car it was right up my alley. Not to mention I have a tight budget that it fit in, so it's on it's way.

Along with the transmission I will be installing a Reactor products SFI rated machined aluminum flexplate, ARP hardware, and a 9 1/2 inch FTI 3200 stall converter. Greg and I talked long and hard about building a converter that would have a small enough stator to allow excellent in gear idle quality for my reasonably sized cam, allowing it to make maximum vacuum and couple hard under boost. It has a pretty good sized pump, and is a small triple disk setup so that I can lock it up under WOT for high speed runs in Mexico or whatever. Driveshaft will most like be a slip yoke style handled by 1320 or DSS. Not sure yet, and the crossmember I will figure out as I go.

The engine will also receive an ATI Super Dampner and it'll come out for a short time because I need to address some pesky ass oil leaks.

Anyways I will be posting pictures of everything that happens during the swap. It may be after the turn of the year due to another project that is getting finished up, but I'm so excited about this I couldn't contain myself any longer.

Cheers!

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Forgot to mention, that after finishing the project I will be posting up the tune as well for everyone's viewing pleasure.

[rocket69GTP]

Interested in seeing this as it would be another good auto option for a G8.

[gr8lover]

Good luck with it---- should be an easy mod!!!

I put a prototype 6L90 in my car back a bunch a years ago..... (actually 1st 6L90 made in Toledo...hand built by me and my crew... ). i did it just for fitment purposes and had to return it back to the plant cause it had to be scrapped... :(.... fit real good and no issues in my tunnel or anything....

good luck and I am sure you will enjoy it..

[Slizzo]

I think the case length is an inch or few longer on the 6L90E, so you'll probably need a custom driveshaft.

Otherwise, will be great to hear and see progress on this!

[G8GT721]

Hope this works out for you, is the 6L90 that much stronger? The 1000ftlb is not listed/stated on century's site


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[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Good luck with it---- should be an easy mod!!!

I put a prototype 6L90 in my car back a bunch a years ago..... (actually 1st 6L90 made in Toledo...hand built by me and my crew... ). i did it just for fitment purposes and had to return it back to the plant cause it had to be scrapped... :(.... fit real good and no issues in my tunnel or anything....

good luck and I am sure you will enjoy it..

Right, you originally got me started on this as I read your thread from awhile back. No one has actually completed the swap on a G8 yet, but there has been one on a Camaro :)

I really really didn't want to lose any features so I figured this would be the best way to go. And thank you for your info in the past. Put my mind at ease a little when I was trying to justify clearances in my head. I'm sorry to hear that. I always wondered what happened to that thread and/or why you went with a different transmission.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

I think the case length is an inch or few longer on the 6L90E, so you'll probably need a custom driveshaft.

Otherwise, will be great to hear and see progress on this!

Correct, which is no sweat at all. :)


Hope this works out for you, is the 6L90 that much stronger? The 1000ftlb is not listed/stated on century's site


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1) 2

Not only have a few stock 6L90's taken CTS-V's into the low 10's with good tuning, they shift faster, and run cooler. This one is the highest level 6L90 build Century offers. They usually say that a transmission will handle 1200 horsepower or something like that, but I don't care for ratings done that way. It's initial torque that breaks parts and LMR states this trans will hold over 1000 lb/ft of input torque, as do the guys at Century. I had to call to get that information though.

What made the happiest was the warranty.

[matts88yj]

Can't wait to see this come together! Going to be following this closely since a 408-418 with two snails are finding their way under the hood.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

One of these days..... One of these days Matt. I just want a single Borg Warner S500X with a 4" downpipe out the hood. lmao.

[spider1701]

Suscribed

[gtp6515]

Sub'd...long time no chat Robbie.

[drumsbh]

Sub'd!

Sent from my LG-LS980 using Tapatalk

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Sub'd...long time no chat Robbie.

Indeed it has been. Work and school has been keeping me strung up tight, Including the official opening of RHX Tuning. Been MIA on alot of the forums due to Gray Ghost change in setup as well, so its good to be back! :D

How's your car?

[NicD]

Done this on more than a few vehicles, just no G8s yet. The 90 will run just fine on the 80 program, no TCM/OS changes necessary and just do the typical tuning you would normally do and change the torque range on the tables if you want. Try to use a ZL1 camaro trans crossmember, might be plug and play not too sure on the G8s. The driveshaft just needs to be shortened up by a small amount.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Done this on more than a few vehicles, just no G8s yet. The 90 will run just fine on the 80 program, no TCM/OS changes necessary and just do the typical tuning you would normally do and change the torque range on the tables if you want. Try to use a ZL1 camaro trans crossmember, might be plug and play not too sure on the G8s. The driveshaft just needs to be shortened up by a small amount.

Right on! That's a big help to me! So trans functionality should seemingly be plug and play then. Considering the TCM is made into the trans, I should be able to plug in, rip the file, and HP Tuners will automatically load the trans segment? I'll look into crossmemeber and see where we're at. If the Camaro crossmember is the same as A G8's, the ZL1 as you said would be perfect. This may be easier than I thought!

[NicD]

Right on! That's a big help to me! So trans functionality should seemingly be plug and play then. Considering the TCM is made into the trans, I should be able to plug in, rip the file, and HP Tuners will automatically load the trans segment? I'll look into crossmemeber and see where we're at. If the Camaro crossmember is the same as A G8's, the ZL1 as you said would be perfect. This may be easier than I thought!
I would do a read of it when it's all together with the 90 for starters, have no idea what OS will come pre-loaded on the TCM inside that particular 90. Not sure if the 90 OS that comes pre-loaded will talk to the G8 ECM OS or not without codes/errors, if it does not just do a full write of your existing original 80 hpt file to load the original TCM OS onto the controller and go from there. It's really not hard and works just fine.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

I would do a read of it when it's all together with the 90 for starters, have no idea what OS will come pre-loaded on the TCM inside that particular 90. Not sure if the 90 OS that comes pre-loaded will talk to the G8 ECM OS or not without codes/errors, if it does not just do a full write of your existing original 80 hpt file to load the original TCM OS onto the controller and go from there. It's really not hard and works just fine.

Cool, well regardless I'll get it figured out. Thanks for your input buddy.

[Greg@PacePerformance]

If he loads the 80 program he might loose some of the features in the 90 program.
I might try using the 90 as is and hope you get lucky, but I doubt it will work since the vin will be incorrect at the very least.

[NicD]

If he loads the 80 program he might loose some of the features in the 90 program.
I might try using the 90 as is and hope you get lucky, but I doubt it will work since the vin will be incorrect at the very least.
The 90 OS more than likely will not play with the G8 ECM OS. Even in other setups it rarely works without being pissed off in some way and further more most 90 operating systems have quite a bit of a different setup as far as shift modes, etc go when compared to the G8 original.

[rocket69GTP]

I take it you will need a custom cut driveshaft and there isn't currently one on the market that will mate to a 6L90 and G8 rear end...

[Slizzo]

I take it you will need a custom cut driveshaft and there isn't currently one on the market that will mate to a 6L90 and G8 rear end...

Need a custom one anyway due to the length of the 6L90E vs. 6L80E, but the 6L90E is in the ZL1, and the Camaro and G8 diffs are direct swaps so...

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

If he loads the 80 program he might loose some of the features in the 90 program.
I might try using the 90 as is and hope you get lucky, but I doubt it will work since the vin will be incorrect at the very least.

Hello Greg! Well I'm not sure what will happen till I get it installed. I didn't ask but I am hoping that the TCM with the trans is blank. If not it's a cake walk to change it to a 90E program.


The 90 OS more than likely will not play with the G8 ECM OS. Even in other setups it rarely works without being pissed off in some way and further more most 90 operating systems have quite a bit of a different setup as far as shift modes, etc go when compared to the G8 original.

You wouldn't happen to have access to do the changeover on the VIN would you?

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

So check this shit out! It just got here:

20690

I never realized the shear size of these transmissions. Here it is next to a fully built Ace Racing 4L80E and built transfer case for the "Street Truck" which is a massive setup:

20691

20692

[gr8lover]

For the tune, my gut is saying you will have an issue running the 6L90 tehcm in your car...... I dont think you will be able to make it talk and work properly without a ton a very creative work on that end of things... I dont think a tech2, hp tuners, or anything will make it easy..... however, one thing that would work would be to swap your 6L80 tehcm and put it in the 6L90.... you should be then be able to program it with EFIlive or Hp tuners to change things accordingly...

I could be very wrong... but my gut is telling me this is the case from various meetings we had years ago with product eng and the controls people... but if you find someone that can find a good way to overwrite or trick it, then you should be all good.... if not, last case scenerio if you need help I can try to figure out a way to compare all the Valbe body differences.... valves, springs, etc... and be able to make it work easy for you,..... I am not a software guy for sure, so I know nothing about this except for the hallway talk... but component specifics and the differences between 6L80 and 6L90 I can figure out rather quickly if you need it... good luck and let us know it goes on the software side of things and if you need any info to help make this work on the mechanical part of things, let me know..

[NicD]

You wouldn't happen to have access to do the changeover on the VIN would you?
Well that's not the problem anyways as some TCMs don't have VINs in them anyways... the 90 OS is usually not compatible with the different ECM OS that we have, at least I haven't found one yet that works without it complaining about it. Heck it's not even compatible with the 2010 Camaro ECM operating systems that I've found and those are newer yet. Regardless, the 80 OS works just fine with a full flash onto the new 90 TCM (it's the same computer as the 80 anyways) with HPT although I would copy the 90 oncoming/offgoing pressures and volume tables and shift pressure tables for starters and keep the G8 shift timing structures as is and modify to suit your setup. This has worked on countless other cars and swaps that I've done.

[-Ray-]

Good luck with your project.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

http://m.ls1tech.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1546829 is what I've found. Hmmmm

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Good luck with your project.

Thanks man

[gr8lover]

http://m.ls1tech.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1546829 is what I've found. Hmmmm

Interesting thread.... but not being a negative guy... :)... I think it will be a bit more interesting to do than a Camaro ZL1 trans into a Camaro SS... due to the similarity of the rest of the car, the ECM, etc...

if you try to take a ZL1 info and use it in the G8 that may not work out so well..... whereas no sweat in a normal camaro ss....

good luck....

[spider1701]

What about using a Camaro ecm on the 6.0? IS that possible, then you could have them communicating better.

[NicD]

http://m.ls1tech.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1546829 is what I've found. Hmmmm
Again, the ZL1 TCM OS (that pre-loads clutch packs for faster shifting) is not compatible with anything that I have found other than the corresponding newer Camaro ECM operating systems, it didn't even work with the 2010 Camaro we tried it on. If it works 100% with the G8 ECM OS I would be VERY surprised. Using your original TCM 80 OS will be a for sure 100% correct match and everything will work for your ECM since it's the original and all switches like shift patterns, etc will line up.

[Greg@PacePerformance]

If all else fails we will be offering stand alone controller for the 6L transmissions in 2014 ;)

I rode in a Dodge Cummins truck making about 900 lb.ft. of torque using a stock GM 6L90 and it was shifting perfect.

[Phil@PnP Tech]

Interesting thread.... but not being a negative guy... :)... I think it will be a bit more interesting to do than a Camaro ZL1 trans into a Camaro SS... due to the similarity of the rest of the car, the ECM, etc...

if you try to take a ZL1 info and use it in the G8 that may not work out so well..... whereas no sweat in a normal camaro ss....

good luck....

I still think there is some merit to the ls1tech article. The Camaro SS has an E38 ecm and the ZL1 is an E67... so bssically they got ZL1 transmission segments to communicate with an E38... which is what's in our G8s.

This may be plug and play if the desired ZL1 segments are already on your new transmission. If you got one with truck segments, you might need a tech 2 and a ZL1 vin... or possibly have Bill segment swap them in.

Edit: If I read a bit further on what NicD said... looks like he may have tried this and didn't have results with the older OS's...

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Ok Nic, I think I'm on the same page, so taking my file and sending it off with the TCM to have that particular OS flashed to it seems to be my best bet. I can't remember if the CTS-V is equipped with an E38 or not, or else I'd just go that route and load up a 2.5bar custom OS to let it rip.
I'm kind of drawing a straws though because I'm not sure what all is involved to change a trans OS, unless I can rip the file and have Bill do a segment swap?

Your comment about preloading the clutch packs though, is something that occurs with the ZL1 OS. I haven't had the opportunity to tune a ZL1 yet, so I m guessing there is a feature somewhere in there that I don't have access to with my G8 file? My first thought was about the oncoming pressure presets, but what I think you mean is a section in the valvebody that builds pressure on the clutches before the shift occurs.

[-Ray-]

The CTSV has the E67 ECM.

[NicD]

Ok Nic, I think I'm on the same page, so taking my file and sending it off with the TCM to have that particular OS flashed to it seems to be my best bet. I can't remember if the CTS-V is equipped with an E38 or not, or else I'd just go that route and load up a 2.5bar custom OS to let it rip.
I'm kind of drawing a straws though because I'm not sure what all is involved to change a trans OS, unless I can rip the file and have Bill do a segment swap?

Your comment about preloading the clutch packs though, is something that occurs with the ZL1 OS. I haven't had the opportunity to tune a ZL1 yet, so I m guessing there is a feature somewhere in there that I don't have access to with my G8 file? My first thought was about the oncoming pressure presets, but what I think you mean is a section in the valvebody that builds pressure on the clutches before the shift occurs.
There is no such thing as a segment swap on the newer ECMs/TCMs, they are independent. Just do a full read to save what is in it once it's all swapped/plugged in (just in case), then do a full flash using your original file from before with the old TCM in it and it should run.

Preloading clutch packs is how they get rid of some of the lag inherent in the manual shifts, it's nothing to do with the settings in the tune it's just built into the newer operating systems.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

There is no such thing as a segment swap on the newer ECMs/TCMs, they are independent. Just do a full read to save what is in it once it's all swapped/plugged in (just in case), then do a full flash using your original file from before with the old TCM in it and it should run.

Preloading clutch packs is how they get rid of some of the lag inherent in the manual shifts, it's nothing to do with the settings in the tune it's just built into the newer operating systems.

Nice to have your knowledge in here. Thank you.

[Phil@PnP Tech]

The newer OS's are still made up of segments... just the engine and trans segments fall under different OS's for different control modules yes. The majority of segments swaps are from the LS1-B's where the trans segments fell under one OS but the term is still is used. I guess the new term would be "OS swap". This swap is kind of like back when people were swapping a 4l80e in place of their 4l60e. With some repinning, the 4l60e segments would run a 4l80e. Sooner or later, more bins got posted and compatible 80 segments started showing up. If it is even possible, see if hptuners can swap in a few different 6l90e OS's into your hpt file. Maybe a ZL1 file wont work but maybe a CTSV will, It would be at least worth a shot. Any newer 6l90e OS has got to be better than the 6l80e.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Tweaker, just sent an email to Bill. We will see what he has to say.

I have a very good 80E trans tune as it is and will modify it if that's what I need to do.

[gr8lover]

Still wishing you good luck but even at the plant, we cannot reprogram or flash a Tehcm from one vehicle to another without many issues and will not work in 95% of the cases..... a ZL1 trans into a Camaro SS not an issue due to the similarities...... I am hoping you can do it, but thinking the only good way to do it would be to use your 6L80 tehcm and mount the 6L90 VB.. but again, I am more mechanical than controls/software/etc... Good luck!!!

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Thanks everyone, at this point I am not at all limited to the method of programming used, so as many ideas posted in here is great. Of course I'd like to use the simplist way, as will everyone else who uses this thread. I'm still waiting on my torque converter, and tuning will come last on the to do list, the mechanics come first. :)

[spider1701]

How is this project going...gonna need a trans this year so....very interested.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Hey everyone! Sorry for the massive delay in updates. I've been out of the country for the past month, so there's been no way for me to update anything. As of right now, I've almost finished Gray Ghost and I'll be rolling my car on the lift as soon as its finished. A few pics of what is currently holding up the G8 project.

http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/IMAG0246.jpg
http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/IMAG0247.jpg
http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/IMAG0248.jpg
http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/IMAG0359.jpg
http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/IMAG0361.jpg
http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/IMAG0366.jpg

http://i1191.photobucket.com/albums/z461/IDRIVEAG8GT/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0369.jpg

All I have to do now is bolt the turbo on, do some simple wiring and put the transmission and transfer case back in, then its ready to go break some hearts.

As for the car I've almost got it all figured out on the 6L90E. I ordered my converter yesterday and my flexplate and ARP hardware came in. Today I ordered a dial bore indicator and micrometer set as I plan on studding the bottom end of my motor and I'll need to recheck clearances to make sure the caps don't egg. Tomorrow comes headers, header studs, ARP converter bolts, super dampner, MSD starter, LS9 head gaskets and a new set of Morel Racing lifters. Then soon after the nitrous kit and other things to go on in conjunction with the transmission.

[STL_G8GT]

that block looks incredible. Should be an amazing project!

[thebeast]

Nice engine there!

[spider1701]

looking forward to hearing about what you did to make the 6l90 work.....

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

looking forward to hearing about what you did to make the 6l90 work.....

Well I haven't started yet, but hopefully late next week I'll have it up on the lift. Maybe sooner.

[gr8lover]

Awesome engine.... looks like my engine (but you have the cool ass intake!!! awesome!!!!).. granetelli valve covers (appears like), Mast black label heads, sweet!!!!!! Nice job !!!!! would love to see that thing scream!!!!!

[G8GT721]

Wow, do you have a thread about the truck?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk 2

[Blanky]

Gr8 how is that 4l80 doing? Whats the swap cost w/ labor

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

that block looks incredible. Should be an amazing project!

Thanks! So far its been an absolute blast, but the project is spanning on almost 5 years now due to changing setups and whatnot. Bob and I found this is the route we really wanted to go with and we plan on this being the last change in setup, bust a 9 in the quarter then turn the boost down and enjoy it on the street.


Nice engine there!

Thanks, glad you like it.


Awesome engine.... looks like my engine (but you have the cool ass intake!!! awesome!!!!).. granetelli valve covers (appears like), Mast black label heads, sweet!!!!!! Nice job !!!!! would love to see that thing scream!!!!!

Thanks alot! Yeah you're pretty much spot on, the valve covers are actually Holley products, might as well be Granatelli though. On full tilt, the engine should have the capability to produce 1800 horsepower. Although I doubt we will ever turn the boost up over 30 psi, and 95% of the time it'll run around on the street at about 700whp on 8 psi.


Wow, do you have a thread about the truck?

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk 2

Yep sure do:
http://www.performancetrucks.net/forums/projects-gallery-189/gray-ghost-turbo-427-lsx-build-515506/

[STL_G8GT]

Thanks! So far its been an absolute blast, but the project is spanning on almost 5 years now due to changing setups and whatnot. Bob and I found this is the route we really wanted to go with and we plan on this being the last change in setup, turning the boost down and enjoying it on the street.

That's great to hear. It's real easy to start sinking money into a project and get so caught up in the potential of it that it's either a) not enjoyable on the street because it's flat out too much power, or b) such an adrenaline rush that you blow it up pushing it beyond what it's built for. Sounds like you've intelligently found a happy medium. Congrats!

[AVIDMOTION]

Subscribe

[apacheguy]

any updates for us?

[Unavowed]

Any chance this happened or just all talk?

[-Ray-]

Maybe his other project has him busy.

[matts88yj]

Maybe his other project has him busy.

This is the case with the preparations he has coming up for TX2K. Actually has two vehicles he is taking out there that are taking up all of his G8 mod time.

[Unavowed]

Updates?

[D00by]

Yes updates!

[matts88yj]

Robbie doesn't get on any of the forums much but life caught up with him a bit. Still working on it but at a slower rate than he had planned.

[-Ray-]

Isn't he doing a 1000 hp twin turbo set up now?

[matts88yj]

Not sure on that hp number but yes he is also working on a more race car inspired TT setup.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Hi guys! I've been retarded busy. I didn't think I was ever going to get the ball rolling on this but I have finally gotten the funds back together. TX2K, and LBK2K14 completely drained me and well it's hard to do anything with no cash.

Anyways, lots of updates!

I sold the blower off the car, and ended up buying a new daily driver. I picked up a 2000 Regular cab shortbed Silverado with a 5.3, and ended up doing a light transmission rebuild, tune, exhaust (since the cats were plugged) and sometime soon, gears. So far I'm happy with it and it's the new little shop truck. Late this month I'm temporarily moving to Carlsbad for my internship which just piles on the stress but it's M-F so I'll be back on the weekends to do work on the car.

I scrapped the nitrous idea, because I came across a deal on stroker components that'll be put in an LS3 block to make a 417. I have a set of WCCH LSA heads here that I'll end up milling down to have 70cc chambers. Then I got this ridiculous idea to do twin 62mm Precision turbos. So as of now I'm piecing together this TT kit, but now that I have the money the trans swap will come first. I sent my FTI converter back because Greg and I had..... Issues. I'll be ordering a Circle-D converter tomorrow. Anyways, as soon as that converter comes in this trans is going in. I'll have my Edelbrock Vic Jr. Intake manifold here tomorrow, along with rails and low profile elbow. I'll get it installed so I can fire it up and move it onto the lift. I'm sorry I have kept everybody waiting for so long.

Between customers vehicles, the truck, and my dad's new CTS-V, I have had zero time to do anything. Can't wait to post pics tomorrow though!!

[GXP-G8]

Hey Robbie, you must still have the G8.
I have the Red G5 you helped with some trans stuff.
Bought me a White GXP and loving it.

Get that BEAST running Sir !

[Blown396]

Would love to run into some you NM G8 guys some time. We're occasionally down in Roswell to visit my girls Mom. I've seen a couple nice G8's out here, but no one stops to get to know each other out here :uhm: Anyway, looking forward to your progress!

Eric

[-Ray-]

Hi guys! I've been retarded busy. I didn't think I was ever going to get the ball rolling on this but I have finally gotten the funds back together. TX2K, and LBK2K14 completely drained me and well it's hard to do anything with no cash.

Anyways, lots of updates!

I sold the blower off the car, and ended up buying a new daily driver. I picked up a 2000 Regular cab shortbed Silverado with a 5.3, and ended up doing a light transmission rebuild, tune, exhaust (since the cats were plugged) and sometime soon, gears. So far I'm happy with it and it's the new little shop truck. Late this month I'm temporarily moving to Carlsbad for my internship which just piles on the stress but it's M-F so I'll be back on the weekends to do work on the car.

I scrapped the nitrous idea, because I came across a deal on stroker components that'll be put in an LS3 block to make a 417. I have a set of WCCH LSA heads here that I'll end up milling down to have 70cc chambers. Then I got this ridiculous idea to do twin 62mm Precision turbos. So as of now I'm piecing together this TT kit, but now that I have the money the trans swap will come first. I sent my FTI converter back because Greg and I had..... Issues. I'll be ordering a Circle-D converter tomorrow. Anyways, as soon as that converter comes in this trans is going in. I'll have my Edelbrock Vic Jr. Intake manifold here tomorrow, along with rails and low profile elbow. I'll get it installed so I can fire it up and move it onto the lift. I'm sorry I have kept everybody waiting for so long.

Between customers vehicles, the truck, and my dad's new CTS-V, I have had zero time to do anything. Can't wait to post pics tomorrow though!!

Looking forward to seeing pics of your build.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Hi guys, I'm back again! Not really too much progress has been made except for getting the Vic Jr in. It looks sweet and I know there's been tons of debate about this intake fitting our cars but no one that I know has tried. So here's the answer. It does fit with about 1/8th inch to spare when you use the ultra low profile elbow.
22264

Sorry it's a so dirty but you guys can see what I mean.
22265

[-Ray-]

I was thinking of doing that intake and selling my ported FAST 102. Glad to see it fits. I didn't want to buy just to test. Thanks for throwing up the pic!

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Hey Robbie, you must still have the G8.
I have the Red G5 you helped with some trans stuff.
Bought me a White GXP and loving it.

Get that BEAST running Sir !

What's up bud?! Glad to see and hear from you. You'll have to bring your G8 down sometime. I'd love to see it.

Oh yeah I'll get it running again, all it takes is time and money!


Would love to run into some you NM G8 guys some time. We're occasionally down in Roswell to visit my girls Mom. I've seen a couple nice G8's out here, but no one stops to get to know each other out here :uhm: Anyway, looking forward to your progress!

Eric

Definitely Eric. We've got a pretty cool car clan that hangs out at the old candy factory on the weekends. Come down sometime and get acquainted!


I was thinking of doing that intake and selling my ported FAST 102. Glad to see it fits. I didn't want to buy just to test. Thanks for throwing up the pic!

You're welcome. I was super happy when the hood shut on it yesterday. :D I will say this though. I don't have the hood liner anymore. I ripped it out a long time ago. That might be the key for this working.

In other news, I ordered my stroker parts. They'll be coming in with another motor soon. As soon as I finish writing I'll be ordering turbos and a few fuel system components.

Wilson is going to be fabbing my turn downs for the turbos to mount on and the rest of the piping to complete the kit. Our foundation though will not be factory manifolds, they will instead be a set of Hedman 304 stainless shorty headers for a Gen 5 Camaro

[-Ray-]

I'm going to finish this single turbo so I can drive my car this summer. Then I'll be doing twins. Ordered the cam today.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Little more progress. Transmission is out as of today. It was actually quite a bit more simple than I had thought it would be. Only problem was getting the bell housing past the headers on the way out. Had to use a pry bar on both sides to make a little additional clearance. I'll be working on removing the engine most likely tomorrow.
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also had my buddy giving me a hand today.
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[bryand]

Subscribed for the info in this thread. Thank you to the op for starting it. Awesome projects in here.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Progress is at a halt right now. Waiting on parts. Time to go intercooler shopping!

[camopaint0707]

whats the stock trans rated to handle?

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

It's really only rated at 469 horsepower. But I've taken it to 700whp and it held for quite some time.

[-Ray-]

Progress is at a halt right now. Waiting on parts. Time to go intercooler shopping!

I'm waiting for parts too. There is work I can do so ill concentrate on what I can do.

[slo gto]

hope this works without too much work.

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Well, bad news. I got my fuel system components in from Summit today..... and I went to go pull the pressure line off the ZL1 system, and I broke the fucking nipple right off the pump. So at that point I was pissed and irrationally thinking, so I ordered a CTS-V system, and a Vaporworx MAP referenced PWM. I'll be using a Kenne Bell BAP to up the juice so hopefully it'll be able to produce over 1000whp worth of fuel.....

Dammit that pissed me off.

[STL_G8GT]

Well, bad news. I got my fuel system components in from Summit today..... and I went to go pull the pressure line off the ZL1 system, and I broke the fucking nipple right off the pump. So at that point I was pissed and irrationally thinking, so I ordered a CTS-V system, and a Vaporworx MAP referenced PWM. I'll be using a Kenne Bell BAP to up the juice so hopefully it'll be able to produce over 1000whp worth of fuel.....

Dammit that pissed me off.

Way to go on the V system! :)

[thebeast]

I hope that fuel system is enough!
doesn't seem to be in ctsv's but who knows

goodluck.
also answered your intercooler question in your other thread.

If you remove the crash bar from the front, you can go thicker than 3in. as far as wider and or taller, might have to start making some modifications to the radiator support. but you are going to need all you can get

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

I hope that fuel system is enough!
doesn't seem to be in ctsv's but who knows

goodluck.
also answered your intercooler question in your other thread.

If you remove the crash bar from the front, you can go thicker than 3in. as far as wider and or taller, might have to start making some modifications to the radiator support. but you are going to need all you can get

Thanks man I appreciate it!

I'm going to run a BAP through the controller. Vaporworx told me explicitly not to exceed 17 volts, and that they have made CTS-V' s make over 1000whp with a little left on the table with that setup which is perfect for me.

I'll go look at the other thread.

Thanks once again!

[Carl@Vaporworx]

How about a little fuel math?

http://i1152.photobucket.com/albums/p490/carlc6/CTS-Vfueltable157vphoto_zps377b71c9.jpg (http://s1152.photobucket.com/user/carlc6/media/CTS-Vfueltable157vphoto_zps377b71c9.jpg.html)

Change the 0.55BSFC to 0.6 makes the BHP @ 60psi/15.7v = 1025hp at the piston.

Subtract 125hp for the supercharger = 900FWHP.

Up the voltage to 17.5. For CTS-V 1v=14% performance improvement. 900FWHP * 1.28 = 1150FWHP

The CTS-V may tend to bleed off pressure through the safety valve above 63psi. Note the large decrease in pump output from 60-65psi vs. the change from 55-60psi.

17.5v will work fine for the controller, but no way will it handle anything more than that without permanent incurable damage to the controller. Limiting the amount of voltage is good for all the components involved since having excessive fueling capabilities makes zero additional horsepower. Here's how to tune the BAP to best match the engine (in a safe, legal manner of course.)

1) Start off with the BAP set to 17.0v. Use the BAP Hobb's switch to turn on the voltage increase at the appropriate time (4psi is usually a good starting point.) Do not feed the system excessive voltage when it is not needed. It's hard on all components.

2) Attach a digital voltmeter to the BAT + and FUEL + terminals of the VaporWorx controller. Start the car. At idle the voltage should be around 6.5v.

3) Note that under heavier engine demand the voltage decreases. This is normal as more "average" voltage is being sent to the fuel module.

4) Watch the voltage at maximum engine power. The point where the controller is providing maximum ouput is when the voltmeter reads 0.2v. In reality it can be as low as 0.16v but 0.2v is safe. If the engine is not yet at maximum power at 0.2v then the fuel system is max'ed out.

5) If the engine reaches maximum power before 0.2v, note what the voltage is at that point. If it's 2.3v, reduce the BAP voltage from 17v to 15.5v. Rinse and repeat until there is 0.75 - 1v on the voltmeter.

Using the above procedure will help provide enough fuel to feed the monster plus a safety margin while maximizing component life.

[Greg@PacePerformance]

You get a like for that great post Carl :)

[Carl@Vaporworx]

Thank you Greg!

[Unavowed]

Is the 90 in yet?

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

Thank you Greg!

Damn Carl thanks! I appreciate that very much!

[IDRIVEAG8GT]

So I have great news guys. Just about every component is here besides turbos and intercooler. My converter arrived from Chris at Circle D. I installed it in the transmission last night and now that I have both the 6L90E and 80E sitting side by side I'm taking measurements for the crossmember. I heard a vicious rumor that the CTS-V, and ZL1 Camaro share the same crossmember and that the SS Camaro and G8 also share the same crossmember. If so that means I'd be able to order up a ZL1 crossmember and have it bolt right in. If not I will go ahead and fabricate one. Then I'll begin trial fitting the transmission.

Also I got tired of messing with the trans and while I still have the engine in the car I decided to trial fit the new valvecovers from Hamburger performance and mount my catch can.
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[Carl@Vaporworx]

Damn Carl thanks! I appreciate that very much!

I'm glad to help. Please keep us up to date on how it works for you.

[nmrwr85]

I need some updates on this!!
Oh and I'm originally from Roswell and was just there around last June in my IOM G8. I didn't see any other G8s from Roswell to Artesia, and back to Las cruces while I was there. I'll be there again at the beginning of this July so I'll have to look up the shop.

[nmrwr85]

Google gave me the answers. Sorry to hear what happened!

[GXP-G8]

no updates available.......

http://g8nation.com/showthread.php?t=42567&highlight=IDRIVEAG8GT
Robbie is no longer with us :(

[RichsGreyGT]

Dang that is tragic. I read all his posts on perf upgrades and his boosted pickup truck.

Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

[Darkmanx]

Whats the big difference between the 80 and the 90

[-Ray-]

Extra clutch plate, addition pinion gears, Beefier trans housing since the gears are bigger than the 6l80. It's also 1.4" longer.

[Darkmanx]

Extra clutch plate, addition pinion gears, Beefier trans housing since the gears are bigger than the 6l80. It's also 1.4" longer.

thanks ray, God bless the dead.

[Unavowed]

So has anyone successfully transplanted a 6L90 into a G8?

[lineofeld19]

So has anyone successfully transplanted a 6L90 into a G8?

Chris Henry at Chenry motorsports has. You can find his page on Facebook with some pics of the transplant.

[Warpig]

I also have done this swap. Mine was completed this year. I just did a short write up comparing the internal parts. Best trans I've had in this car, and I've been through 5 6L80's.


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[AVIDMOTION]

I think the 90 is a much better trans then the 80. I never liked my 80 much, had all kinds of little quirks. I thought it a pretty tough trans to last 130,000 of my constantly driven like stolen miles. I didn't realize really how crappy it really was until I sold my G8 and got a 2013 SHO with performance package. This 6 sp trans is what a 6 sp trans should be like stock. No flares, no mushy gear changes no nothing wrong. The one thing the 80 was is strong, I'll give it that.
God bless the OP, sorry to hear.

[Darkmanx]

I also have done this swap. Mine was completed this year. I just did a short write up comparing the internal parts. Best trans I've had in this car, and I've been through 5 6L80's.


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Where's the write up?

[Warpig]

http://www.g8board.com/forums/19-g8-gt-talk-v8/247641-6l90-swap.html#/topics/247641?page=1&_k=mfmkao


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[Darkmanx]

So trans , custom crossmember, 1 inch drive shaft, take tcm from 6l80 and put in 6l90 and tune it and thats it?