top of page

"FAQ" LS LT SB BB to 8HP70 75 76 6HP28 6R80 BMW Adapter - BMW E9x E8x

  • Writer: Guru Autowerks
    Guru Autowerks
  • 3 days ago
  • 10 min read

FAQ for GA4 LS LT SB BB 8HP70 75 76 6HP 6R BMW Adapter - BMW E9x E8x E6x Answers to most common questions about compatibility & accessory components

GM LS LT SBC BBC Engine to 8HP 6HP 6R BMW Transmission Adapter


Compatibility Overview

Vehicle: 2006+ BMW E9x E8x (Ask us about F-Series & E6x)

Engine: GM LS LT SBC BBC V8

Transmission Option #1: BMW 4.4L N63 & S63 – 8HP70 8HP75 8HP76 AWD & RWD

Transmission Option #2: BMW 4.8L N62 – 6HP28/6R80 Hybrid AWD & RWD (Ask for details)

Rear Driveshaft: (OE E9x E8x w/105mm 96mm guibo/flange) or (Aftermarket 1350 U-Joint Options Available)

Front Driveshaft: (OE E9x E8x) or (Aftermarket Custom Shaft w/Larger U-Joints)

Starter: (OE Shrouded – Minor Modification Required) or (Aftermarket Unshrouded – No Modification Needed)

Mounting: (AWD – Custom X-Member & Bushing) or (RWD – Custom Upper Bracket & X-Member)

Cooler Lines: Billet 8AN Adapter Block w/PTFE Line Kit. Optional 10AN 6AN sizing available.

Cooler Setup: Adapt an existing Transmission Cooler or consult with us to add a Cooler & Thermostat Package.

Shifter: F-Series Shifter Adapter w/Manual Park Release Mechanism – Or Consult with us about other options.

Flexplate: OE or Aftermarket Flexplate; 3-Bolt & 6-Bolt 11-1/16" Ø Dia., 3-Bolt 10-3/4" Ø Dia., 6-Bolt 11-1/2" Ø Dia.

Crankshaft: Compatible with typical LS Short Crank & LS LT SBC BBC Long Cranks; No Modification Needed


What is the Total Conversion Cost for 8HP70 75 76 into the E9x or E8x Chassis?

Minimum total cost starts out at $4000-$6000 when utilizing a stock 8HP70/75/76; Labor cost not included. This a general overall estimate taking into account the cost of ALL necessary components listed below for a basic conversion.


Due to wide array of options and custom nature of the conversion this general estimate will vary for each build. Choice of transmission, standalone TCU/wiring, shifter, mount/x-member, manual park release kit, cooler adapter/components, driveshaft(s), tuning/coding, torque converter, upgraded parts & other miscellaneous components all effect the end price.


Components & Services List – Overview

Option #1 – 8HP70/75/76

*GA4-V1 Adapter & Conversion Kit – BMW E9x E8x Chassis specific kit with all components & accessories necessary.

*8HP Transmission – 8HP70 Gen 1, 8HP75 Gen 2, 8HP76 Gen 3 from BMW's equipped with 4.4L N63 or S63 engine.

*Standalone TCU & Wire Harness – MaxxECU, Turbo Lamik, CANTCU, Sound German etc.

*3 Gallons ATF – Adrenaline Speed Shift ATF or Similar Group IV Synthetic Fluid Recommended.

*Service Parts – New Pan/Filter Assembly, Mechatronic Connector Seal, Input Seal etc.

*Coding – Various requirements based on Standalone TCU/Vehicle – Contact Eric at Houston BMW Coding.

*Tuning – Varies based on Standalone TCU chosen, vehicle build requirements & overall complexity.

Labor – We provide direct project support from A to Z for DIY or Professional installations.


Option #2 – 6HP28/6R80 Hybrid

*GA4-V1 Adapter & Conversion Kit – BMW E9x E8x Chassis specific kit with all components & accessories necessary.

*6HP28/6R80 Transmission – 6HP28 AWD & RWD from BMW's equipped with 4.8L N62 Engine.

*Standalone TCU & Wire Harness – USShift Quick 6 or OEM TCU

*3 Gallons ATF – Adrenaline Speed Shift ATF or Similar Group IV Synthetic Fluid Recommended.

*Service Parts – New Pan/Filter Assembly, Mechatronic Connector Seal, Input Seal etc.

*Coding – Various requirements based on Standalone TCU/Vehicle – Contact Eric at Houston BMW Coding.

*Tuning – Varies based on Standalone TCU chosen, vehicle build requirements & overall complexity.

*Labor – We provide direct project support from A to Z for DIY or Professional installations.


How much power can this transmission setup support?

These stock transmission cores commonly handle 600-800 lb-ft & can be built to handle 1000+ lb-ft TQ with upgraded clutch packs & billet components. Years of proven 7 & 8 Second 1/4-Mile Drag Racing Capability by 8HP BMW & Dodge Platforms. 6HP28/6R80 based builds have been 6 & 7 Seconds in the 1/4-Mile with decades of aftermarket support & parts.


Factory Transmission TQ Ratings

8HP70 & 6HP28 = 516 lb-ft / 700nm, 8HP75 = 551 lb-ft / 750nm, 8HP76 = 560 lb-ft / 760nm, 6R80 = 590 lb-ft / 800nm. Aftermarket performance parts for these transmissions are available. Please consult us & your transmission builder.


What gear ratios does the 8HP70/75/76 have?

Gen 1 8HP70 - 4.714, 3.143, 2.106, 1.667, 1.285, 1.000, 0.839 and 0.667:1

Gen 2 8HP75 – 5.000, 3.200, 2.143, 1.720, 1.313, 1.000, 0.823 and 0.640:1

Gen 2 8HP76 – 5.500, 3.520, 2.200, 1.720, 1.317, 1.000, 0.826 and 0.640:1

6HP28/6R80 – 4.17, 2.34, 1.52, 1.14, 0.87 and 0.69:1


What Transmission is recommended & how much do they cost?

Lengthy production years and numerous models provide plentiful options but also can be overwhelming to decipher. Below is a generalized price estimate & model guide but exact compatibility may be difficult should be verified. For this reason we recommend obtaining the donor vehicles VIN # & if possible pictures of the transmission. Using RealOEM & other online resources we can check compatibility before purchase.


$200-$1000+ 8HP70 Gen 1 AWD & RWD ~2009-16 N63 4.4L 550 650 750 X5 X6. ~2011-13 S63 4.4L X5M X6M.

$800-$1500+ 8HP75 Gen 2 AWD & RWD ~2017+ N63 4.4L M550 M650 M750 M850 X5 X6. ~2013-19 S63 4.4L X5M X6M.

$1000-$2000+ 8HP76 Gen 3 AWD ONLY ~2015+ BMW G-Series N63 4.4L M550 M750 M850 X5 X6

$200-$1000+ 6HP28 AWD & RWD ~2008-10 BMW E-Series N62 4.8L 550 650 750 X5 X6. ~2010-13 S63 4.4L X5M X6M.


What Transfer Cases (ATC) are compatible with the AWD 8HP70 75 76 in the E9x E8x?

The E-Series ATC300 350 is directly compatible and recommended for use with our E9x E8x conversion kit. F-Series ATC35L is also directly compatible but uses a different actuation motor that is not compatible with most controllers. Larger ATC500/700/45L variants also fit the transmission but will not fit the E9x E8x tunnel or align with the front differential. Other custom ATC/Differential options that are not directly compatible may be possible but fitment cannot be guaranteed. Its important to verify your Standalone ECU/TCU & ATC combination are compatible beforehand.


When should the transmission or transfer case be purchased?

While you can purchase parts at anytime we recommend waiting until approximately 1-3 weeks ahead of the installation date. Most Used Parts have a 30 day money back return period with a receipt. Within the first 30 days a pre-installation inspection is recommended so if any issues are discovered you can quickly return it. Keep in mind the buyer is usually responsible for returning the item locally or paying for return shipping cost which can be substantial.


Where do I find a transmission and what help is provided to ensure a good outcome?

We provide direct support to all customers and strongly encourage them to work with us through this process. Car-Part, eBay and LKQ are most common recommended sources for used transmissions. Be mindful when purchasing from individuals or any business with cash/no receipt. Ask what the return policy is ahead of time to avoid surprises & always get a receipt.


Our process starts with a broad search of donors that meet our criteria. Using the VIN number we gather Auction/Sale/Wreck information which is used to help verify the advertised mileage and condition of the transmission is accurate. Reviews of the Auto Parts Yard selling the product are also checked. We consult with the customer on choosing one of these transmissions.


We cannot guarantee or be responsible for the condition of these used transmissions but we work hard to reduce the risk and difficulty associated for customers unfamiliar with the process. Local sale is preferred but shipping is common. When receiving freight its best to have a business address or location with a loading dock/forklift or request pickup at your local freight terminal. Residential addresses lift gate service adds cost to freight quotes & most sellers prefer a business/terminal address.


Are modifications required to fit the 8HP70/75/76 or 6HP28/6R80 assembly in the E9x/E8x?

Recommended Mod #1 Transmission Tunnel Clearance

Remove unused bolt mounting bosses on body/bellhousing that may interfere with the transmission tunnel. Necessary Tools for Mod #1 = Die or Angle Grinder with Sand/Flap Disc/Carbide Burr/Grinding Stone etc. Cut/Grind away bolt mounting bosses and smooth/contour the surface for maximum tunnel clearance.


Optional Mod #2 N/A Exhaust/Header Clearance

Remove LH starter bubble to allow Headers/Exhaust Clearance. Not necessary for most Turbo Setups. Necessary Tools for Mod #2 = Die or Angle Grinder with Sand/Flap Disc/Carbide Burr/Grinding Stone etc. Cut/Grind away LH Starter bubble and profile to the shape of the Adapter plate to allow maximum exhaust clearance.


What Starters are compatible?

Smooth Nose Gen III & Gen IV – Bellhousing modification required.

Ribbed Nose Gen III – Bellhousing modification required.

OEM 10+ Camaro/Caprice/G8 – Bellhousing modification required.

Aftermarket Unshrouded – No modification required.


What Torque Converters are compatible?

OE BMW N63 8HP70/75 Torque Converters – OE core can be modified for higher stall speed if necessary. Aftermarket options may also be available that are directly compatible.


Circle D HP & Pro-Series Dodge 8HP70/75 Torque Converters – Custom Built; 34mm O.D. Small Pilot. REQUIRES – Alternative "B" Torque Converter Adapter & "C" Pilot Adapter – REQUEST INFORMATION


While any 8HP torque converter will physically fit inside any other 8HP due to variances we can only guarantee fitment with these recommended options detailed above. If you have a specific 8HP converter you would like to use instead please consult with us before hand about a custom torque converter/pilot adapter assembly.


What driveshafts are compatible? OEM, M3, Ford 8.8?

RWD - OEM E9x/E8x or M3 driveshafts 2-Piece require no modification; Reuse OEM BMW 6HP/8HP 105mm Output Flange.

Ford 8.8 & 1350 U-Joint driveshafts are directly compatible with the "Truck" Output Flange of the Dodge Ram 8HP70/75; Requires using matching OEM Dodge 1350 U-Joint Flange Part# 68417915A – Please consult with us for further assistance.


AWD – OEM E9x 335xi driveshaft and similar 2-Piece AWD driveshafts. May or may not require modification depending on several factors such as engine placement, differential used etc. Please consult with us ahead of time.


What is a TCU & what options are available to control the 8HP Transmission?

"Transmission Control Unit" is the computer which controls the transmission much like an ECU/Engine Control Unit. 8HP Standalone TCU Options – MaxxECU, Turbo Lamik, CANTCU, Sound German etc. 6HP/6R80 Standalone TCU Options – USShift Quick 6.


What is required to install the Standalone TCU?

The complexity of standalone installation greatly depends on the controller chosen, its capabilities & components supplied. Some have plug & play wire harness options while others will require intermediate to advanced level wiring to make your own harness. We recommend consulting with the Standalone TCU manufacturer's website & installer/tuner before purchase.


MaxxECU – CAN based TCU for Dodge Gen 1 8HP or Combo ECU/TCU for LS engine and Gen 1 8HP. Multiple ECU model options available with unterminated and custom terminated harnesses. Wide range of features including Trans-Brake launch control, CAN bus integration and much more. Great bang for buck race-oriented ECU/TCU. Extensive support/wiki/community.


TurboLamik – Direct Control based TCU for Gen 1 & Gen 2 8HP. Requires removing OEM TCU Chip or "Brain" to hardwire directly into the solenoids/sensors. Wide range of features; Trans-Brake & Virtual Clutch Pedal for Drift Car setups. Well suited to Race setups requiring a high level of control with minimal restrictions. Well established with good support & community. CANTCU – CAN based TCU for Dodge/BMW Gen 1 & Gen 2 8HP; available with pre-made harness or unterminated. CANFormance & XHP Tuning/Flash Options. OEM style launch control. Effective solution with easy installation, large compatibility range, customer support and instructions. Excels at OEM level drive-ability w/some race features.


Sound German PCS – CAN based TCU for Dodge Gen 1 & Gen 2 8HP. Requires Dodge Shifter. Small package with basic wiring/inputs required. Custom calibration/tuning files available through Sound German. Many features including paddle shifters, Sport/Track mode & Trans-Brake launch control. Knowledgeable support & customer service.


USShift Quick 6 – CAN based TCU for 2011+ 6R80 w/One Way Clutch; includes unterminated harness. PC based software with easy to use interface.Trans brake style launch control, universal integration options. Great option for controlling 6HP28/6R80 Hybrid builds. Easy setup, mechanical style shifters utilized & USA based support.


What shifters are compatible?

Our Shifter Adapter included in this kit is designed for the F-Series Electronic Shifter.

Ask us about adding a pre-sourced good condition F-Series shifter to your kit or source your own. Premium "DCT" branded sequential style short and long handled shifters are also available!


There are two compatible BMW F-Series shifters which both have 10 pin connectors located at the front side. BMW F2x/F3x/F8x – 61319296896 or F0x/F1x – 61319296904 – Use RealOEM.com for cross reference information.


Other BMW F/G-Series, Dodge & aftermarket shifters may be compatible depending on the Standalone TCU being used. Please consult with us prior to purchase if you intend to use another shifter; Custom shifter adapter will be required.


Will cruise controls work?

Yes; Dependent on chosen Standalone TCU/ECU etc. Wiring may or may not be required.


Will steering wheel paddle shifters work?

Yes; Dependent on chosen paddle shifters & Standalone TCU/ECU etc. Wiring may or may not be required.


What about the transmission cooler setup?

Our kit comes with everything needed to adapt an existing AN8 or AN10 transmission cooler; Including the following. 8HP AN Adapter, 8AN PTFE Line Kit w/10 fittings, 10AN/8AN Reducers & A/T Radiator Block-Off for deleting OEM Cooler. Not sure what parts you need? Consult with us directly to add a cooler core & inline thermostat to your kit. Below are standard components that can be added to the kit or customers may utilize their own preferred components.


19 or 25 Row Cooler mounted in front of the radiator is most common – Simple; benefits from Radiator Fan airflow

25 or 30 Row Cooler mounted in wheel well – Add louvered panel to the wheel liner for airflow & rock guard.

165F Thermostat recommended to ensure quick warmup times; especially for daily driver and colder climate setups.


Is this compatible with Manual, DCT or AWD E9x/E8x models?

Yes but certain parts are required for proper fitment.

Manual & DCT – Use E9x/E8x 6HP A/T Lower Bracket 2326778060 or LSE90.com adjustable "DCT Lower Bracket".

AWD vehicles will require a different custom Lower Bracket. Please consult with us before proceeding.


Can I convert my RWD E9x E8x to AWD?

Yes but not easily. We recommend starting with an AWD chassis if able.

The AWD tunnel has a unique shape & bolt holes for the ATC x-member.

Custom work will be required to obtain proper fitment in the RWD tunnel.


Can I convert my AWD E9x E8x to RWD?

Yes with a custom transmission x-member & miscellaneous parts.


How does shipping work?

Our preferred method of shipping is UPS Ground; Fully Insured & Signature Required.

Upon final payment customer is notified of estimated shipping date.

Confirmation of package drop-off and tracking information are provided ASAP.

Expedited & International shipping quotes available upon request.


What about local sales tax?

8.25% Sales Tax will be applied to Texas orders.


What about International import fees?

International customers are responsible for all customs import taxes, duties & tariffs.

Comments


bottom of page