
This means that there is an electronic switch or solenoid responsible for nearly all functions of the transmission. Below, we will address how the 6L90-E transmission clutch packs operate.Īs with nearly all 6 speed transmissions, the 6L90-E transmissions are almost exclusively solenoid controlled. This enhances the load capabilities of these clutch packs in the respective gears with which they are applied. Some applications were given a multitude of additional clutches spanning across various clutch packs in the transmission. This came tantamount to a larger intermediate shaft to ensure reliability during loaded 3-4 upshifts where this shaft experiences great stress. This is a critical modification necessary for both high RPM, and high torque figures as well. The reason behind this was to accommodate additional physical gear assemblies inside the transmission, permitting 2 additional pinion gears equating to a total of 6. The primary differences between the transmissions are in reference to internal hard parts.įirstly, the 6L80 case is shorter. With the advent of new vehicles with greater performance needs, the 6L90-E transmission came at a very critical time. The 6L90-E is the slightly larger brother to the 6L80-E transmission, designed to capacitate the additional torque to the other unit. What is the difference between the 6L80-E and 6L90-E transmission? Top 5 Ways to Extend the Life of a Factory Transmission Calculating Torque Multiplication Factor, Why is it So Important? Top 5 Benefits of an Upgraded or Built Transmission Popular Transmission Information Resources: Resources for relevant updates and upgrades The strengths (believe it or not, there are a few!) of this transmission Its capabilities in reference to TCM tuning and shift/lockup protocol modification The most popular failures we witness on the 6L90-E transmissions In this Drivetrain 101, we will be addressing: Regardless of your application, the 6L90-E transmissions are not perfect, and benefit greatly from a variety of aftermarket enhancements. Further, we will address plausible solutions we've employed over time and how they benefit people with these units.

Because of this, we have gone to great lengths to understand the plurality of problems that plague this transmission, rational to their applications.ĭue to this, it is important that we address all of the prolific failure points of this transmission and how they apply to all 6L90-E owners. This transmission is used in everything from pickup trucks, to SUV's, to audacious muscle cars, to family sedans.

The General Motors 6L90-E Transmission is one of the most widely used 6 speed transmissions in automotive history. Problem #7 - The 4-5-6 (Overdrive) Clutch Pack Problem #6 - The Transmission Electro-Hydraulic Control Module (TEHCM) Problem #5 - The High Pressure Oil Pump How the 6L80-E and 6L90-E clutch packs work What is the difference between the 6L80-E and 6L90-E transmission? Popular Transmission Information Resources General Motors 6L90-E Product Resources In this Drivetrain 101, we will be addressing Introduction to the 6L90-E Transmission
