GM’s Hydramatic 4L65E transmission setup is heavily based on the popular 4L60E series, however it is powered up by using heavy-duty parts and components to allow for enhanced strength as well as performance. Let us learn more about the 4l65E performance transmission in the next part of the post to help you understand it in a better way.
According to the information provided by a reputed website, the heavy-duty version rates at 380 pound-feet of massive torque and the same goes up to 400 for the regular car version. Steve Ford, a renowned chief engineering MD claims that the 4L65E can take in about 20 percent more torque power than the L60. The maximum torque power for the 4L65E is about 380 pound-feet and the max torque (gearbox) is a whooping 670 pound-feet. The maximum shift speeds hover around the 6,400 RPM mark from 1st to 2nd gear, 6,200 RPM from 2nd to 3rd, and 5,600 RPM from 3rd to 4th gear.
As for the usage, 4L65E performance transmission was developed for use in GM heavy vehicles, mostly trucks. However, at a later stage, these engines were adapted for use in Corvette, and some other Chevy performance cars. The 2005-2006 model of the Pontiac GTO was adapted from the Holden Monaro, which also makes use of the 4L65E transmission. It is also used in the Cadillac Escalade All-wheel-drive and some other trucks that takes up power from the 6-liter eight-cylinder gasoline engine of GM. Some of the notable vehicles include SSR, GMC Sierra, Silverado, GMC Sierra Denali, Hummer H2 and H3. This can also be purchased as an aftermarket product.
Talking about the 4L65E transmission, it has 5-pinion planetary carriers. It comprises of large sized sun-shell gears that are made by using high-quality powdered metal. With the help of this process, each and every components of the transmission get increased strength and power. In addition to that, the bell housing fully wraps around the torque converter, this helps in he reduction of vibration. The 4L65E performance transmission also features induction-hardened turbine shaft. The good news is that various other 4L60E parts and components can be replaced with premium quality heavier-duty components. The wet weight, according to a reputed testing website is about 200 pounds.
The gear ratios for transmission are:
- 3.059 to1 for 1st gear
- 1.625 to 1 for 2nd gear
- 1 to 1 for 3rd gear
- 0.07 to 1 for 4th gear
Now, let’s talk about the nomenclature of the transmission. The 4L65E performance transmission's model number basically refers to its basic features. It tell that it is a 4-speed transmission setup, where it is positioned longitudinally and it is controlled completely by using various electronic parts. In the newer models, it is referred to as 4L65 and not 4L65E transmission.