Transmission decision dilemma

[ivanko]

I recently had my 3rd hardpart failure in my HHP Racing Stage VI 700R4 built by Syclone/Typhoon transmission guru Brian Hartman. This was the second planetary gear failure and Brian attributes the failure to the low quality GM "sinister" powdered metal material. Although I trust Brian and his ability to engineer a 700R4 to handle the huge stress the AWD and big torque our trucks place on the transmission, I have lost all confidence in the 700R4 regardless of build level or quality.

I know for sure I will not be installing the 700R4 again so my options are left to either install a 4l80E or possibly a T56 conversion. There is give and take for both of these scenarios. Brian Hartman tells me the 4L80E will be a pig in my truck and I will lose the nice 1-2 shift and the responsive hard shifts of the 700R4. I have been told the 4l80E is nearly indestructible though. The 6 speed is another option, but I will risk losing the characteristic "aircraft carrier" launch the Syclone is known for and I may break drive train parts if I launch hard with the manual.

My Syclone is an “all around” performer and I like to participate in autocross, track day events and occasionally drag racing. Of course I drive it on the street as well.

I was hoping to gain some feedback from those of you here who have first hand experience upgrading from a hard shifting 700R4 to the 4l80E.

Btw, I was referred by Marty Syborg Twin Turbo Sonoma GT.

Thank you.

Adam