4L60E Transmission Overview — History, Specs, and Evolution

The 4L60E transmission is one of General Motors’ most recognized and widely used automatic transmissions. Designed for rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles, the 4L60E features four forward gears and one reverse gear in an electronically controlled design known for its reliability and versatility.

From 700R4 to 4L60E — A Legacy of Improvement

The 4L60E’s history begins with the Turbo-Hydramatic 700R4, first introduced in 1982. When GM adopted a new naming convention, the 700R4 became the 4L60 (RPO MD8), signifying a 4-speed longitudinal transmission. In 1993, GM phased in the 4L60E (RPO M30), the electronically controlled successor. It appeared first in trucks, vans, and SUVs, and by 1994 became standard in all rear-wheel-drive passenger cars.

Design and Technical Specifications

• Gears: 4 forward speeds, 1 reverse
• Torque capacity: Up to 360 ft-lb (490 N·m)
• Weight: 133 lbs (dry)
• Input shaft: 298mm (non-LS) / 300mm (LS engines)
• Bellhousing depth: 6.5” (non-LS, 6 bolts) / 7” (LS, 7 bolts)

In 1998, GM introduced a new 300mm torque converter with improved internals and a redesigned input shaft and pump for Gen III Small Block (LS) engines, increasing torque capacity and durability.

Shift Solenoids and Electronic Operation

The 4L60E features two shift solenoids—originally called Shift Solenoid A and Shift Solenoid B, later renamed under OBD-II standards to 1-2 Shift Solenoid and 2-3 Shift Solenoid. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls these solenoids in specific patterns to achieve each gear.

Solenoid Activation Pattern:

• 1st Gear: On / On
• 2nd Gear: Off / On
• 3rd Gear: Off / Off
• 4th Gear: On / Off

4L60E Gear Ratios

1st – 3.059
2nd – 1.625
3rd – 1.000
4th (Overdrive) – 0.696
Reverse – 2.29

4L60E Design Generations

GM introduced several updates over the years:

• 1993–1997: Early electronic versions with non-removable bellhousings
• 1996–1999: Bolt-on bellhousings and 6-bolt tailhousings (first on S-10 models)
• 2000 and newer: Strengthened internals and LS-style 7-bolt bellhousings

Learn More About the 4L60E

Explore our detailed resources and repair guides:

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