I'm getting ready to get the ls4 swap started in a few weeks and I'm finding complete engines at great prices! But non of the transmissions are available from those engines!! My question is can I some how adapt a starter so it can work on the non hd transmission? The ls4 does not have provisions for a starter on the block due to it having a transmission mounted started, someone please chime in. Car is a 2006 Monte Carlo LT with 3.9L VVT V6.

 

I would be surprised if the 4t65e could handle the power if you could even manage to make it work with the ls4. I don't think I would even trust the HD with it either. Try checking junkyards for the correct transmission.

 

The 4t65e-hd which is the only transmission available from the factory for a LS4. It has a very specific bellhousing that incorporates the starter mount. This differs from All other 4t65e transmissions.
Also there is a difference between the Chevy (manual shift/ sport mode) and Pontiac (tap-shift)4t65e-hd transmissions.
Also the Chevy model can disable the DOD/AFM simply by selecting 1,2,3 on the gear shifter.. only in 4 will the DoD/AFM work. Pontiacs cannot do this.

 

Wait there's a difference in transmissions from Chevy and Pontiac? That's only for the ls4 correct?

 

There has always been some differences for example, the same 4t65e found in some chevs like the 9c1/9c3... do not advertise they have no traction control or diff anti score, some other models have the sport shift, which is you can drop the gear shift lever into 1st gear and put the pedal down and it will let the computer shift when required all the way to the speed limiter. Pontiacs did not have this either.


Another example is in 2006 for example there were 14 versions of the 4t65e, only 2 of these would fit the LS4 and then there was the Volvo versions also.

 

unless you are going to get it built before you install it I wouldn't trust a non HD transmission on an LS4. As is sits stock it will eat HD transmissions.

 

Part of this is correct! the LS4 is really hard on the 4t65e-hd.


Not to bash or anything but the part about, "unless you are going to get it built before you install it I wouldn't trust a non HD transmission on an LS4."
I want to make it clear, there is no other 4t65e or 4t65e-HD that will bolt up to the LS4. There are only 2 models that will fit and are very specific as the LS4 has no starter mount on the block, therefore the transmission bell housing has a special mount cast into it for the mounting of the starter ( which by the way is different also)


Here is an example: Chev 4t65e-HD for a LS4 only





A little harder to see it here due to the shipping clamp