Is anyone interested in the ZF 8HP transmissions?

[andrewb70]

In the last couple of years I have been reading up on various modern transmissions swaps, like the dual clutch ZF transmissions as well as the ZF 8HP70/90 range.

Is anyone interested in the 8HP swap?

After LS Fest my buddies Tom and Brian drank the ZF 8HP KoolAid with me. Tom found a smoking deal on 3 take out 8HP70 transmission and he is starting to dig into them in preparation for doing the needed modifications to use the TurboLamik TCU.

These transmissions are simultaneously complex yet simple. Here is the main case after the valve body has been removed.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/23/1183.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/ormJY)

This is the valve body with a total of 9 solenoids.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/23/1184.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orEKo)

This is the part that needs to be modified.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/23/1185.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orFti)

The shiny plate is the OEM TCU cover. That cover gets cut off and a PCB board gets soldered in place that allows the use of an externally mounted TCU.

I would be interested in hearing from people that are interested in this swap, especially with Holley EFI.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

Today I got the images that compare a T56 with the Dodge 8HP70. This was a collaborative effort between myself, one of my customers, and Domi-Works. The images compare a Dodge 8HP70 with a GTO T-56. The 8HP70 is the gray outline and the T56 in black.

Here is the side view and you can see how the top profiles of the 8HP70 are about the same as a T56. Keep in mind that this will change a little bit with the 1" adapter installed, as the 8HP70 will sit one inch back.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-001.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/ornSH)

This is the bottom view, and obviously the pan is wide, but the case profile is slim.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-002.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/or6Ee)

You can see that the case is slimmer in this top view.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-003.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orDW7)

This is the view from the rear...

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-004.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/or9DR)

The front view shows that the bellhousing overall diameter is about the same. This view also shows how much the 8HP pan extends down. I can tell by looking at this that the 8HP oil pan will be about 1" below a Holley 302-2/3 oil pan, which is very common for GM A-body LS swaps.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-005.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/or7sD)

and lastly a couple of 3/4 views from two different angles...

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-006.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/ortGh)


https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/25/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-007.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orAKP)

I hope these images can help people better understand the fitment requirements. Judging by these pictures, I don't think that I will have to do anything to the tunnel in the Cougar to make this work. It actually looks like the transmissions mounts are very closely aligned.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

Here are the images comparing the Dodge 8HP70 with a 4L80e.

Looking at the side view, you can see that the top profile of the 8HP70 basically follows the outline of the 4L80e.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/28/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-008.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orIHU)

The bottom view shows how the 8HP pan has a much smaller foot print.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/28/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-009.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orfRN)

From the top view you can see that the 8HP is a little wider in the area where the bellhousing transitions into the main art of the case.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/28/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-010.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orYAm)

The rear view shows the depth of the 8HP oil pan in the rear.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/28/Dr-EFI-Dodge8HP70-011.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/ordQw)

From looking at these pictures, I am pretty sure that the 8HP70 will fit where ever a 4L80e fits. If your particular vehicle needs to have the tunnel modified to use a T56 or a 4L80e, then similar modifications will be required for the 8HP70.

It also looks like the transmission mount will be very similar to the 4L80e location and to the T56 location. I will be using a TCP weld together crossmember kit. It has a universal transmission mount pad that needs to be welded in place.

Andrew

[WSSix]

That's interesting, Andrew. Do you have any concerns about it holding up to the abuse the Cougar can give it?

[andrewb70]

That's interesting, Andrew. Do you have any concerns about it holding up to the abuse the Cougar can give it?

There seem to be plenty of swaps that have been done with the 8HP70 with similar or more power than what the Cougar makes. The 70 stands for the torque rating, which in this case is 700Nm, which is 516lf/ft. By comparison GM rates the 4L80e at 440lb/ft, and we know how durable those transmissions can be even in stock form.

I have two friends that are doing this swap at the same time. The other cars are a 66 Fairlane with a LSx454 and a 2004 BMW M3 with a LT1/LT4 engine combination. All three cars are in the 600-700HP range.

I actually thought there would be more interest here. This transmission is basically becoming the LS of the transmission world. There are adapter plates available for every popular performance engine out there, new or old.

Andrew

[shinchane101]

Exploring modern transmission swaps can be quite intriguing, especially when it comes to the ZF 8HP range. It's great to see the interest in the 8HP swap grow, and kudos to Tom for securing those transmissions and working on modifications. These transmissions do have their complexities, but the potential benefits are exciting. Looking forward to hearing more Futbol libre (https://futbollibreenvivo.org/) from those interested in this swap, especially in combination with Holley EFI. Keep us posted, Andrew

[andrewb70]

Today Tom received a little care package from Sweden. We received all three kits and everything was packaged very nicely.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/30/1187.md.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orCSk)

This is the little PCB board that needs to be soldered in place where the stock TCU lives.


https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/30/1188.md.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/ors4G)

I was actually shocked to see how small the PCB board is. The TurboLamik TCU is not huge, but it is quite a bit larger than the stock TCU. I suspect that ZF has a lot of very talented electronics hardware engineers working for them and that the stock TCU probably uses some ASICs, while the TurboLamik uses more readily available, larger, general purpose chip sets. I also suspect that this si why everyone that tries to get around the stock TCU limits eventually hits a wall. That is because the ASICs have built in hardware limits that just can't be exceeded with software hacking. The TurboLamik has no such limitations and thus is more flexible.

The sleeve on the left is the adapter to use an earlier transmission where the converter snouts had a smaller diameter. We won't need them, but it is nice that they it is included. All of the hardware is included and individually packaged.


https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/10/30/1189.md.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/orTFK)

Andrew

[WSSix]

I had no idea they were finally making automatics that strong. I was easily impressed with all the gears they now have. Power capacity didn't even enter my mind. This is definitely interesting.

Btw, Tom bought the Forgeline's on his M3 from me. Small world. Wish we could have chatted longer when he came by to pick them up.

Thanks, Andrew

[BigBronco]

Very interesting.

I am such a manual transmission guy, that I have not paid too much attention to most of the newer automatics outside of watching what the 10 speeds have done with the ford s550 and f-150 platforms.

Appreciate the information and look forward to seeing how this will work and what it takes to integrate it into the holley.

[andrewb70]

I had no idea they were finally making automatics that strong. I was easily impressed with all the gears they now have. Power capacity didn't even enter my mind. This is definitely interesting.

Btw, Tom bought the Forgeline's on his M3 from me. Small world. Wish we could have chatted longer when he came by to pick them up.

Thanks, Andrew

Tom completely reworked those wheels with different hoops to fit his e46. They look great. That car is going to hurt a lot of GT3 owner's feeling after he does the 8HP swap...

Very interesting.

I am such a manual transmission guy, that I have not paid too much attention to most of the newer automatics outside of watching what the 10 speeds have done with the ford s550 and f-150 platforms.

Appreciate the information and look forward to seeing how this will work and what it takes to integrate it into the holley.

I have never owned a hotrod with an automatic, so it will be a new experience for me. If you can even call these transmissions "automatic".

Andrew

[groovyjay]

We are using halltech to control the ZF8 behind an LS3. Amazing transmission.

[andrewb70]

We are using halltech to control the ZF8 behind an LS3. Amazing transmission.

Care to elaborate on the technical details? I'm not aware of Haltech having any direct support for the 8HP except sending the necessary information to the 8HP over CAN.

How about some details about the hardware adaption and installation pictures?

What kind of car is it in?

Andrew

[srode1]

I have two friends that are doing this swap at the same time. The other cars are a 66 Fairlane with a LSx454 and a 2004 BMW M3 with a LT1/LT4 engine combination. All three cars are in the 600-700HP range.

I actually thought there would be more interest here. This transmission is basically becoming the LS of the transmission world. There are adapter plates available for every popular performance engine out there, new or old.

AndrewI'm following and interested for sure, following just not commenting. Guessing the ZF8hp90 would have the same integration solutions.

[andrewb70]

I'm following and interested for sure, following just not commenting. Guessing the ZF8hp90 would have the same integration solutions.

Yes, the 8HP90 uses the same adapters and TCU. They are a little thicker in the middle of the case, but otherwise similar in dimensions to the 8HP70.

If the 8HP70 works well in my Cougar, I'll be doing a 8HP90 in my GTO.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

Today Tom sent me some pictures of the preparations that he is doing to the stock TCU in order to use the TurboLamik. This is the part that has to be removed from the valve body. Here it is sitting upside down and you can see the shiny plate, which is the case of the stock TCU. This top of this case must be cut off carefully by using e Dremel with a cut off disk.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/05/1190.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/oYUsc)

Here is the stock TCU with the cover cut off. You can see how impressively small the electronics are inside the TCU.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/05/1191.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/oYsEt)

Sadly, we can't use any of it, so all of the little wires that you to go from the circuit board to the pins have to be cut off and bent back.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/05/1192.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/oYCy8)

Here is the Domi-works PCB board. It will get soldered in place to bridge the appropriate pins so that the TurboLamik TCU can be used externally.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/05/1193.jpg (https://hostmyjunk.com/image/oYqKn)

Once the PCB is soldered in place, the little billet cover has to be glued in place. Tom found a local electronics repair place that will do the soldering at a very good price. We felt that this job was important enough to have a professional do it.

Andrew

[groovyjay]

Care to elaborate on the technical details? I'm not aware of Haltech having any direct support for the 8HP except sending the necessary information to the 8HP over CAN.

How about some details about the hardware adaption and installation pictures?

What kind of car is it in?

Andrew

We are collaborating and sharing with halltech. LS3 engine and 8HP are in a 1982 celica rally cross car. We also have the 8HP mated with 900hp Barra engine which sits in a 1980 MB estate wagon :D
https://www.facebook.com/reel/573826411567754

[andrewb70]

We are collaborating and sharing with halltech. LS3 engine and 8HP are in a 1982 celica rally cross car. We also have the 8HP mated with 900hp Barra engine which sits in a 1980 MB estate wagon :D
https://www.facebook.com/reel/573826411567754

I love the Mercedes wagon!!!

Which TCU are you using inside the 8HP70?

Andrew

[WSSix]

That wagon is silly, lol.

This is pretty cool seeing the insides of this transmission and what you're having to go through to control it. Thanks for sharing the pics

[andrewb70]

Here is another part that is necessary when doing the Dodge 8HP70 swap:

https://www.seemslegitgarage.com/product-page/dodge-8hp-park-release-kit

I should have it next week.

​​​​​​​Andrew

[WSSix]

...and that's why it's so easy to steal a Hell Cat. No key needed, pop up the shifter cover and pull the release to put it in neutral. I watch too many youtube shorts, lol.

[andrewb70]

Today I visited Vic, not just for lunch but to see if he can help with a small project.

I got these paddle shifters from DomiWorks a while back. I was actually going to use them on my GTO, but it seemed more appropriate to repurpose them for the Cougar in anticipation of the 8HP70 swap.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/28/1194.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rzirK)

We decided to keep it simple and just mount the paddles to the spokes of the steering wheel. Before taking off the steering wheel I actually mocked up the paddles against the steering when when it was still installed in the car.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/28/1195.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNGat)

This was the chosen location. It puts the paddles at the fingertips but keeps them tucked nicely and the left side one does not interfere with the turn signal stalk.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/28/1196.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rzyfa)

The location for the holes was laid out and the holes were drilled.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/11/28/1197.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rzvZk)

Apparently I forgot to take more pictures along the way, but here is a little video that shows one of the paddles in action.

BiOfqDUWygM



Andrew

[andrewb70]

Here is where I am with all of this. I have been trying to gather as much information as I can about both the TurboLamik and the HTG, especially how they integrate with Holley EFI. Sadly, there is precious little information out there. So either it is not being done very much, or people are being very secretive. If you do a google search for Holley and HTG or TurboLamik, there is barely anything out there. Seems Legit Garage claims that they have done "many" Holley EFI systems with the HTG, but even their El Camino uses a GM ECU. I also joined the HTG and TurboLamik FB groups, and while there seems to be quite a bit of interest in these swaps, there is very little actual information.

I am going to the PRI show this coming week and have a meeting on my schedule with the TurboLamik US rep. I also purchased a CAN course from HP Academy, which has been very helpful. That is all I have for now, but I will be making updates as more information becomes available.

​​​​​​​Andrew

[dhutton]

Hi Andrew. I am following and curious what features and functionality you are hoping to achieve by integrating the Holley with the TCU versus both systems running independently. Just curious, not questioning the goal.

Watching this thread for possible integration into my 57 Buick Caballero build. :)

Thanks,
Don

[groovyjay]

I love the Mercedes wagon!!!

Which TCU are you using inside the 8HP70?

Andrew

No TCU. It’s all controlled through halltech.

[andrewb70]

No TCU. It’s all controlled through halltech.

I am not aware of any Haltech product that has direct control of the 8HP transmission. Do you have some more details, please?

Andrew

[andrewb70]

The ZF 8HP swap journey continues as well. Tom is working on prepping these transmissions for us. These two were probably the worst looking on the outside.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/12/14/1199.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNz68)



https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/12/14/1200.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNNen)

But they sure cleaned up nicely!

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/12/14/1201.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNZgc)

The really cool part about these transmissions is that they already have a CV cup on the output! If you guys recall, I was basically the one that popularized the use of modern CV driveshafts in older cars. My Cougar has had a dual CV driveshaft since I built it in 2015.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2023/12/14/1202jpeg.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNSu3)

The GTO has had a CV driveshaft in it since about 2012-2013ish...Both driveshafts use a carbon fiber tube.

So when using the 8HP in an older car, the front CV is already to go! I met with The DriveShaft Shop at the PRI show and they assured me that they can build driveshafts for these swaps.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

In addition to working on the electronics, we also had a chance to mock up the engine with the adapter and the transmission. Please keep in mind this is just a loose mock-up. We were missing a couple of key parts, like the flexplate and the dowel pins between the adapter plate and the transmission.

This is BA's engine. It was recently on the dyno and made just under 700HP.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1205.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNp7o)

This is one of the transmissions that Tom got and it already has the PCB modification performed.


https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1206.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNVvZ)

The Domiworks adapter plate fit the engine block perfectly. It is a nice touch that they included the oil pan bolts.


https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1207.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNggd)

The adapter has beautiful chamfers on all of the edges. I really appreciate that kind of detail.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1208.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNHkE)

The is the "wagon wheel" adapter that bolts to the torque converter and a stock LS flexplate. BA actually has a TCI SFI flexplate and I will be getting a SFI flexplate from Circle D. Notice that the wagon wheel has provisions for all 3 of the popular flexplate to converter bolt patterns.


https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1209.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNBrT)

Here are the transmission and the adapter plate put together. Notice the offset bolt in the adapter for Gen V LT engines. This is critical for Tom, who obviously has a LT based engine in his BMW.


https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1210.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rN2ei)

Here is a just a close look at the transmission and adapter.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1212.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNMuY)

This is more of the same from the other side.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/01/14/1211.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rNo5p)


More to come eventually. Things are in a bit of a holding pattern until this cold snap is over.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

My friend Tom is making progress on his e46 M3 Gen 5 LT 8HP swap.

He is using a spare 5.3L L83 block for mock up. You can see the Domiworks adapter plate along with his custom engine mounts.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/03/16/signal-2024-03-16-162002-1.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/ruir4)

Working with a lift and some tables the engine and transmission drop out the bottom.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/03/16/signal-2024-03-16-162002-2.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r3GvS)

Tom is using a transmission mount sold by Holley, but it will be modified to work with a stock BMW crossmember. This particular crossmember is from a later F-series BMW.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/03/16/signal-2024-03-16-162002-3.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r3ZgT)

With the transmission mocked up at the correct engine angle the transmission pan is level and flush with the rockers.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/03/16/signal-2024-03-16-162002-4.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/ruyk5)

The tunnel needed to be massaged just a little in a few places, but he will be able to reuse all of the stock heat insulation panels.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/03/16/signal-2024-03-16-162002-5.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r3z7E)

This car is going to hurt some feelings.

Progress is being made...

Andrew

[andrewb70]

I got a notification from eBay showing a BMW shifter for $120. I jumped on it because it was black. Most other ones are silver. I don't really even know what kind of BMW it is from.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/04/03/1213.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r3Bwp)

Andrew

[andrewb70]

j-3sc-zxZww

Andrew

[WSSix]

Very nice. Glad you're making progress.

[andrewb70]

People have been asking for a comparison between the 8HP90 and the 8HP70. Here are some pictures that compare the two, as well as comparing the 8HP90 to a T56 and also a 4L80e.

First the 8HP90 against the 8HP70:

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP70-8HP90-SIDE.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxMYh)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP70-8HP90-TOP.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxKMD)

This is the 8HP90 against the 4L80e:

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-4L80-BOTTOM.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rx2Ge)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-4L80-FRONT.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxgUH)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-4L80-REAR.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxoRP)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-4L80-SIDE.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxwVm)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-4L80-TOP.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxmbw)

This is the 8HP90 against a T56

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-T56-BOTTOM.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxE4U)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-T56-FRONT.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxxnN)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-T56-REAR.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rx0mG)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-T56-SIDE.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rx5Uk)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/05/06/8HP90-T56-TOP.md.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rxDXK)

We are scheduled to do some TurboLamik testing with the new firmware that has full Holley EFI CAN support this coming Saturday.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

I am really surprised more people are not interested in this transmission swap for their projects.

Andrew

[srode1]

I am really surprised more people are not interested in this transmission swap for their projects.

AndrewI think there will be a lot more interest when its lined out and on the road. I'm following and I'd guess lots of others are too.

[andrewb70]

I think there will be a lot more interest when its lined out and on the road. I'm following and I'd guess lots of others are too.

Here is a copy and paste that one of my customers posted recently:

"Well, I want to update this as my car has been on the road a while. This is a bit long.

Background on the car:
75 camaro with a forged 370 LS
LSA heads(factory stock with springs)
LSA blower with 2.45 upper and stock lower
BTR Stage 2 turbo cam(226/231 @ 0.050, 0.600/0.610 lift on a 113)
1-7/8 header to 3" x pipe and magnaflow mufflers
Junk yard 8hp70(500 bucks!)
Stock converter
SLG LS to 8HP adaptor
Turbolamik computer
Ford 9" 3.00 rear gears
DCT(brand) shifter--basically a sequential shifter but can be used to put in R/Drive


Andrew and Lukas got CAN working(I can't thank them enough for their time spent getting it working!) and we had some trials and errors on my car to get it to work. This was on my part.. but for whatever reason, it just wouldn't work with spliced connections from the old transmission harness I was using. I ordered some holley pins and sure enough it started working!

-----------------------

Originally I was using analog sensors which added some wiring just so I could move the car around, but was driving it. It was funky on some of the shifting or even when in gear, but really did work pretty well. It was all within the tune, but not something I was too worried about. I knew the trans was in good shape and everything was working. The trans for the most part felt positive, but I was somewhat second guessing myself if it was worth the work. Few months go by and everyone is busy, I am kind of burned out and working on other projects and I get a call. Hey we got CAN working! Awesome! Except.. yeah my wiring was bad(again my fault even though the wires showed the same Ohms and continuity as the new wire I put in). Turbolamik and Andrew decide to try a new computer. Still nothing, so we decided to rewire the CAN wires(only 2 wires are needed for communication!) and it works!

It's been about a month since CAN has started working, maybe a bit less, but I've been driving the car a bit since it made a world of a difference! I've been playing with different tune settings of the trans(I made 3 modes and it's cool to see the differences between them) Andrew set up a few things in the Holley software to enable toque cut which makes it shift smoother/faster. Heck I thought this was it and was super stoked on how well everything is working. I took a buddy out for a rip and he couldn't believe how well it drove and how well it just applied the power with the nice gear ratios that we get with these 8 speeds. Rolling 3rd-5th is a wild ride!

So I got a call this morning, "can you hop on your computer real quick" and lucky enough I could! Login and Andrew and Lukas were working on switching TPS to PPS in the turbolamik software(they got it working in a matter of minutes) and Lukas noticed an issue with the torque calculation. He starts going through it. WOW. I thought this things was smooth before, that was like icing on the cake! I describe it as if I blind folded someone and threw them in the car, they would swear its a new car. The upshifts are crisp and positive and the car feels faster than it ever has(even compared to the 489 big block and t56 magnum it had). I went out and did a data log for Andrew, I noticed I only got up to 68% throttle and 4700rpm and it felt like a rocket ship. The shifts were pretty perfect in the way they felt too.

Would I recommend this conversion? Absofreakinglutly. Going from a 4l80e to an 8hp70 makes the car feel like it picked up 150-200hp(thinking of a 150 shot of nitrous)."

I have two more customers that should be on the road in a couple of weeks.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

Here is a little video from the customer above.

LRu1r4cc9Ls

Andrew

[camcojb]

Sounds great. Is there a way to use the stock speedo and tach with it?

[andrewb70]

Sounds great. Is there a way to use the stock speedo and tach with it?

Tach, yes. The Holley ECU has a tach output on the main harness. To drive a mechanical speedometer, you would have to get one of those cable drive boxes. People used to use them 20 years ago, and I am not even sure if they are made anymore.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

This car belongs to my long time friend Brian. Last year he had a catastrophic driveshaft failure that took out the floor pan, exhaust, 4L80e transmission and the LSx454 block. It took a year, but it has been rebuilt better than before. The engine internals were balanced and put into a Dart block. A different cam was added and it made 700hp on the engine dyno.

The transmission was replaced with a Dodge 8HP70, using the TurboLamik, which communicates with a Holley Dominator ECU over CAN.

She is wearing her dancing shoes to party.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/09/01/BA001.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r0xvK)

The new center console will likely get extended further back and upholstered.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/09/01/BA002.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r0wkk)

https://j.hmjimg.com/2024/09/01/BA003.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r0rwG)

It also has a dual CV 3.8" diameter carbon fiber driveshaft from The Driveshaft Shop. This car will be at LS Fest next weekend and I am hoping very good things.

If anyone is going to LS Fest, some say "hello" to me in the TurboLamik booth.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

Doing a little trans brake testing.

AqLwqlVjB-g

Andrew

[Will_Cook_86]

Hey Andrew,

Can you do a compare with the 4r70w, 6r80, to the 8hp70?

[andrewb70]

Hey Andrew,

Can you do a compare with the 4r70w, 6r80, to the 8hp70?

I appreciate the chance to compare those transmissions, but frankly, I don;t know much about the 4r70 or the 6r80, except that they are older Ford transmissions. The 4r70 is similar to a GM 4L60 and the 6r80 is comparative to the GM 6L80.

The 4r70 is an older design and can be controlled directly with Holley EFI. The 6r80 cannon be controlled directly by Holley EFI, but I believe US Shift has a controller.

The 8HP is just an amazing transmission. I have been in the Chicago area the last couple of days. I am staying with my friend with the Fairlane and we will be heading to LS Fest tomorrow. Riding in the Fairlane is an unreal experience. The car can go from a lazy Sunday cruiser to a race car with a trans brake at the click of a switch. We ran across newer BMW M5 that wanted to play and I think he was a little surprised when we pulled on him, despite his "blurble" tune...

Andrew

[Will_Cook_86]

I appreciate the chance to compare those transmissions, but frankly, I don;t know much about the 4r70 or the 6r80, except that they are older Ford transmissions. The 4r70 is similar to a GM 4L60 and the 6r80 is comparative to the GM 6L80.

The 4r70 is an older design and can be controlled directly with Holley EFI. The 6r80 cannon be controlled directly by Holley EFI, but I believe US Shift has a controller.

The 8HP is just an amazing transmission. I have been in the Chicago area the last couple of days. I am staying with my friend with the Fairlane and we will be heading to LS Fest tomorrow. Riding in the Fairlane is an unreal experience. The car can go from a lazy Sunday cruiser to a race car with a trans brake at the click of a switch. We ran across newer BMW M5 that wanted to play and I think he was a little surprised when we pulled on him, despite his "blurble" tune...

Andrew

Thats why I'm looking at doing either 8hp70 or 8hp90. After looking at size comparison you did of the 4l80e and t56 to the 8hp90 and 8hp70. I'm thinking of going with the 8hp90 for the peace of mind.

[andrewb70]

Thats why I'm looking at doing either 8hp70 or 8hp90. After looking at size comparison you did of the 4l80e and t56 to the 8hp90 and 8hp70. I'm thinking of going with the 8hp90 for the peace of mind.

It will be interesting to see how the 8HP70 holds up in the two test vehicles that I am involved with. We will be racing both of them at LS Fest this weekend. The Fairlane has 700HP at the crank and the BMW made over 700RWHP.

The Fairlane will be launching off the trans brake with a 2-step rev limiter. That car has always hooked pretty well.

The BWM will be launched softer off a foot brake, mostly to keep the rear axles from breaking, although he has spares, just in case.

I too have been looking for a 8HP90 for my GTO, but the price and lack of availability might put me into an 8HP70.

Andrew

[Will_Cook_86]

I too have been looking for a 8HP90 for my GTO, but the price and lack of availability might put me into an 8HP70.

Andrew

Will you be recording those races for you yt channel?

I'm hoping to get mine sorted out by March. Then emailing you tuning.

[andrewb70]

Will you be recording those races for you yt channel?

I'm hoping to get mine sorted out by March. Then emailing you tuning.

I'll definitely be taking as much video content as possible. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me: projectgattago at gmail dot com

Andrew

[Will_Cook_86]

I'll definitely be taking as much video content as possible. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me: projectgattago at gmail dot com

Andrew

Awesome, thanks

[will69camaro]

It will be interesting to see how the 8HP70 holds up in the two test vehicles that I am involved with. We will be racing both of them at LS Fest this weekend. The Fairlane has 700HP at the crank and the BMW made over 700RWHP.

The Fairlane will be launching off the trans brake with a 2-step rev limiter. That car has always hooked pretty well.

The BWM will be launched softer off a foot brake, mostly to keep the rear axles from breaking, although he has spares, just in case.

I too have been looking for a 8HP90 for my GTO, but the price and lack of availability might put me into an 8HP70.

Andrew

Looking forward to those results. Very strongly considering this as a replacement to my 80e in the C10.

[PTAddict]

Andrew,

Is there a Mopar ECU/TCU solution for this trans with Gen 3 Hemi? Or is it the same situation as with the non-Mopar engines ...

[andrewb70]

Andrew,

Is there a Mopar ECU/TCU solution for this trans with Gen 3 Hemi? Or is it the same situation as with the non-Mopar engines ...

I have no idea. I don't work with OEM ECUs. I only work with Holley EFI and you can use Holley EFI on Gen 3 Hemis.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

1TxJFYswFMY

[WSSix]

That's moving damn quick.

[andrewb70]

Little action from last Thursday.

U37x41A4BBY

We were making consistent 10.9x passes at 124.x MPH. Sixty foot times were in the 1.5x range. This was done with over 100 pounds of subwoofers and a spare tire in the trunk.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

Here is a cool product that you guys might be interested in:

https://www.crossmembers.com/products/8hp70-swap-block-transmission-gf-mut-8hp70

I will be using it to mock up the 8HP70 in my Cougar, along with their Godzilla mock-up block.

​​​​​​​Andrew

[ScotI]

Here is a cool product that you guys might be interested in:

https://www.crossmembers.com/products/8hp70-swap-block-transmission-gf-mut-8hp70

I will be using it to mock up the 8HP70 in my Cougar, along with their Godzilla mock-up block.

​​​​​​​Andrew

Those things are great for easier swap prep + validations.

[andrewb70]

This is one of my customers cars:

https://youtube.com/shorts/vUFEIJCOSsY

vUFEIJCOSsY

Andrew

[Strictly Attitude]

I have been contemplating one of these in my 72 Chevelle I have a fueltech ft 550 lite and they offer an option to tune the trans. I need to figure out a adapter plate/converter for it to mount to my Gen 1 but just started drinking that cool aid.

[andrewb70]

I have been contemplating one of these in my 72 Chevelle I have a fueltech ft 550 lite and they offer an option to tune the trans. I need to figure out a adapter plate/converter for it to mount to my Gen 1 but just started drinking that cool aid.

I don't know anything about Fueltech or their 8HP controls, but Domiworks offer a Gen 1 SBC adapter.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

I am working on my own 8HP70 swap into my 67 Cougar. I was using the 5th gen Camaro starter. Well, that starter has a unique nose on it and it does not work well with the Domiworks adapter. I recall having a similar clearance issue when I used that starter with a stock T56 bellhousing. Instead of butchering the adapter (more than I already did) I ordered this truck starter. It has a different nose, but still have the connector for the solenoid wire.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/06/30/1242.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r7LUo)

You can see where I have already clearanced the adapter, but had I used this starter from the beginning, that would not have been necessary.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/06/30/1243.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r71Gi)

The other difference with this starter is that it does not have provisions for the heat shield, like the one that is used on the 5th gen Camaro starter. I don't think this will present any issues.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/06/30/1244.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r7RRR)

This shows how much the bellhousing has to be notched in order to clear the nose of the starter. I could have done a slightly smaller notch, but I didn't want to keep messing with it.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/06/30/1245.jpg (https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/r7aV7)

I plan to 3D scan that area and have a small cover designed and 3D printed. The engine swap party is a little over 2 weeks away.

Andrew

[andrewb70]

The ZF8hp70 transmission fits better in my Cougar than the T56. I was able to raise the back of the engine about an extra inch, which actually improved the relative angle of the engine to the rockers.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1260.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rjol4')

This is the view on the driver's side.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1261.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rjwc5')

and the view on the passenger side.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1262.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rjx6S')

I used an 8HP70 mount from Holley and even recycled the transmission mount from my 89 Suburban project. I also made a new crossmember by starting with a Chris Alston Chassisworks Mustang crossmember kit. The new crossmember turned out pretty good, except when we went to install the exhaust, it hit the crossmember. :��:

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1263.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rjELT')

I've had these little plastic bellhousing block off plates in my tool box for 15 years and I finally have a chance to use them. This one seals off the driver's side of the bellhousing.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1264.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rjmhE')

This side loops around the started nose and seals off the passenger side opening.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1265.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rj00Z')

I ordered a small Earl's cooler to use for the transmission and we found a good place for it on the side of the hood latch support.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1266.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rj5Cd')

My buddy Brian took this shot after we got the hood back on it.

https://j.hmjimg.com/2025/07/21/1267.jpg ('https://www.hostmyjunk.com/image/rjDZo')


Saturday afternoon FedEx delivered the blower belt and a few minutes later....

EtY2P_9rAS4

Tom handled the transmission fluid fill procedure while Brian shifted through the gears, which is required to fully fill these transmissions.

Yesterday I ordered a dual CV driveshaft from The Driveshaft Shop. In the meantime I need to permanently wire the TurboLamik and figure out a way to mount the BMW shifter. Ideally I would make a console, but there isn't time to do that before LS Fest.

Andrew

[digitalsolo]

Following along on this... I think I'm going to swap the TR6060 in my Mustang for an 8HP70 this winter. Not shocking to find you're way ahead of me on your builds.

I wish they made one of these I could fit in a Corvette transaxle. :D

[andrewb70]

I'll just leave this here:

1kRUW2DrKoc



Andrew

[dontlifttoshift]

Stock 8hp70, stock converter, 10.2

That's rad.

[JKnight]

Very impressive! That’s a great ET for a street car. Well done!

[andrewb70]

Last week I took a spare 9" carrier, that I have been dragging around for about 8 years, to a recommended shop to swap out the ring and pinion. This was a Currie nodular 9" carrier that came with a 31 spline True Track diff, but had a useless 4.57 ring and pinion gear.

A while back I purchased a used OEM 2.75 ring and pinion and also a REM polished 2.75 ring and pinion from Quick Performance. I told the guy to use whichever gear set he felt would be the quietest. HE ended up setting up the used OEF Ford gear. I started the carrier swap yesterday and finished it up this afternoon.

I took my first drive and I have to say, that in my opinion, this is the optimal rear axle ratio when using the 8HP70 transmission. The gears are very quiet and I am pretty pleased.

For anyone contemplating the 8HP transmission swap, I would use either a 2.75 or at most a 3.00 gear set, assuming the typical 25.5 to 27 inch tall tires that we all use. With a taller tire, a 3.25 gear would work as well.

Andrew

[ScotI]

I wondered about this. Once the ability/possibilities to swap these transmissions started growing, I did rpm calcs to figure out what gearing options might be most beneficial. I was curious on the numbers....