Rebuild or Drop in?
 

Do you guys think it'll be cheaper to rebuild a 4L60E to hold some big power or just buy another built trans (brand new) and drop it in?...

Cheaper now, or cheaper when you have to pull it out again and ship it back after it blows up?

4L60's are tough from what I've been told. There are certain critical high stress parts that they don't make a stronger aftermarket version of so either way it's tough to build them up to handle lots of power. I have no personal experience pulling one apart but that's what I was told my 2 different trans builders when I blew the 4L60 in my pickup. That being said you may want to just look into a stock GM replacement with a warranty or have yours rebuild with upgraded clutches and so forth but know that there are still weak points that can't be addressed at this time.

Ok, well does anyone know of the easiest replacement trans I can bolt up to an LS1 and that can handle a ton of power? I know some tranny's are a PITA to install...

actually, these trans need a lot to get them to hold up compared to what other trans take. Look up on ls1tech, lots of people do a 4L80E conversion.

4L80E = 4L60E w/ different internals?

No.

4L65-E is a version of the 4L60-E with better internals.

4L60-E is an electronic derivative of the old TH350.
4L80-E is an electronic derivative of the old TH400. Stronger but heavier.

First gear in a 4L60-E is 3.06. First gear in a 4L80-E is 2.48.

4L60E is just an electronic version of the 700R4 they both share most of the same internal parts..
Plan on spending around $2000 for a 4L60E rebuild that is what mine cost but it came with a gaurantee for aslong as I own the car..
I weighed the pro's and con's of doing the 4l80e swap but you will have to get a new Torque converter along with a few other things..

$2000.00 for a rebuild? How many horses is rated for? And where did you get it done at?