1. Automatic Transmissions Products
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  3. GM 17804243

GM 17804243 Transmission

17804243 Gm Genuine F Remanufactured Transmission

( Brand: Gm ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 17804243 ), ( Part Type: Transmission ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year ), ( Fitment Type: Direct Replacement ), ( Genuine Oem: Yes ), ( Replaces Part Number: 17804052 )

Review GM Genuine Remanufactured Transmission

The **GM 17804243 Transmission** is a high-performance, heavy-duty automatic transmission designed for select General Motors full-size trucks and SUVs, engineered to deliver exceptional durability, efficiency, and adaptability for demanding driving conditions. Part of GM s advanced 6-speed **6L90** transmission family, this unit is meticulously crafted to handle the rigorous torque requirements of modern V8 and turbocharged engines while ensuring smooth, responsive shifting and optimal fuel economy. Built with precision using high-grade materials, including reinforced gears, a robust torque converter, and a sophisticated planetary gearset, the 17804243 transmission is engineered to withstand the stresses of towing heavy loads, hauling payloads, or navigating rough terrain without compromising performance or longevity. Its compact yet robust design allows for seamless integration into GM s full-size truck platforms, such as the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Cadillac Escalade, while its advanced hydraulic and electronic controls including a **TorqueCon** system for optimized power delivery ensure precise gear engagement and minimal wear over time. Whether tackling highway cruising, off-road adventures, or extreme towing scenarios, this transmission excels in reliability, offering a balance of strength and efficiency that aligns with GM s commitment to performance and innovation. Regular maintenance, including proper fluid changes and filter replacements, is essential to maximize its lifespan and preserve its superior handling capabilities.

### Pros and Cons of Buying a GM 17804243 Transmission

The **GM 17804243** is a **4L60E** transmission, commonly found in General Motors vehicles from the late 1990s through the early 2000s (e.g., Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme). Below is a detailed breakdown of its advantages and disadvantages.

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### **Pros**

1. **Widespread Availability of Parts**

- The 4L60E is one of the most common GM transmissions, meaning replacement parts (solenoids, bands, clutches, seals, etc.) are widely available from aftermarket suppliers, GM dealers, and online retailers. This makes repairs and upgrades more accessible and cost-effective.

2. **Proven Reliability with Proper Maintenance**

- When maintained correctly (regular fluid changes, proper cooling, and timely repairs), the 4L60E can last **200,000 miles**. Many owners report smooth operation if the transmission is kept in good condition.

3. **Compatibility with Performance Modifications**

- The 4L60E is a **heavy-duty transmission** capable of handling **high torque** applications, making it suitable for **turbocharged engines, supercharged setups, or high-horsepower builds** (e.g., LS engines). Aftermarket support (e.g., **Tremec, Borla, or Jegs transmissions**) exists for performance upgrades.

4. **Lower Cost Compared to New OEM Transmissions**

- A used or rebuilt 4L60E is significantly cheaper than a brand-new GM transmission. Rebuilding costs are also lower than replacing with a new unit, especially for common failures like **valve body issues or band wear**.

5. **Aftermarket Support and Tuning Options**

- The transmission is well-documented, with **tuning options** (e.g., **HP Tuners, DiabloSport, or custom ECU maps**) available to optimize shift points and performance. Aftermarket **transmission coolers, torque converters, and solenoids** are also widely available.

6. **Durability in Towing Applications**

- With the right modifications (e.g., **heavy-duty torque converter, extended-range valve body, or towing packages**), the 4L60E can handle **light to moderate towing** (up to **5,000 7,000 lbs** with proper setup). However, it is not as robust as a **6L80 or 6L90** for heavy-duty towing.

7. **Easy to Work On**

- Compared to newer GM transmissions (e.g., **6T70, 6L80**), the 4L60E is **simpler in design**, making DIY repairs more feasible for experienced mechanics. Service manuals and online forums (e.g., **4L60E.net, GM Transmission Forum**) provide extensive troubleshooting guides.

---

### **Cons**

1. **Common Failure Points**

- Even with maintenance, the 4L60E has **known weak points**:

- **Valve Body Failures** The **solenoid pack and valve body** can fail due to **contaminated fluid, overheating, or wear**, causing **rough shifts, delayed engagement, or complete failure**.

- **Band Wear** The **forward and reverse bands** wear out over time, leading to **slipping or failure to engage gears**.

- **Torque Converter Issues** The **stock torque converter** can **overheat or fail** in high-performance applications, requiring upgrades.

- **Seal and Gasket Leaks** **Front and rear main seals, pan gaskets, and oil cooler seals** are prone to leaks if the transmission is not properly maintained.

2. **Sensitivity to Fluid Quality and Maintenance**

- The 4L60E **requires high-quality transmission fluid** (e.g., **Mobil 1 ATF, Dexron VI, or Valvoline MaxLife**) and **strict fluid change intervals** (every **30,000 60,000 miles** for performance applications). Using **low-quality or incorrect fluid** accelerates wear and failure.

3. **Overheating Risks**

- The transmission lacks **built-in cooling** in stock form, making it prone to **overheating** in **high-performance or towing applications**. A **transmission cooler** is **highly recommended** for any serious use.

4. **Limited Longevity in Extreme Conditions**

- While capable of **200,000 miles** with care, the 4L60E **struggles in extreme conditions**:

- **Heavy towing** (beyond **5,000 7,000 lbs**) can cause **premature failure** unless heavily modified.

- **High-RPM, high-torque applications** (e.g., **supercharged LS engines**) may require **custom torque converters, extended-range valve bodies, and reinforced internals**.

- **Aggressive driving** (hard shifting, excessive heat) can **reduce its lifespan significantly**.

5. **Electronic Issues**

- The **PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and transmission control solenoids** can develop **electrical or software glitches**, leading to **erratic shifting or diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)**. Some issues may require **PCM reprogramming or solenoid replacement**.

6. **Rebuild Costs Can Be High**

- While parts are cheap, a **full rebuild** (including **new bands, clutches, seals, and valve body**) can cost **$1,500 $3,000 **, depending on labor and part quality. A **partial rebuild** (e.g., just bands and seals) may be cheaper but less reliable long-term.

7. **Compatibility Issues with Modern Vehicles**

- If installed in a **modern GM vehicle (post-2006)**, the **PCM may not communicate properly** with the transmission, leading to **shift issues or check engine lights**. A **custom PCM or transmission control module (TCM) update** may be needed.

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### **Conclusion**

The **GM 17804243 (4L60E) transmission** is a **solid, reliable choice** for **stock or lightly modified applications**, especially in **older GM vehicles**. It excels in **availability of parts, aftermarket support, and durability** when properly maintained. However, it is **not without weaknesses** **valve body failures, band wear, and overheating** are common issues that require **vigilant maintenance**.

For **high-performance, towing, or extreme torque applications**, the 4L60E **can be modified** (with **torque converter upgrades, extended-range valve bodies, and cooling solutions**) but may still **require more frequent servicing** than newer transmissions.

If you are **building a project car, restoring a classic GM vehicle, or running a stock/lightly modified engine**, the 4L60E is a **cost-effective and capable choice**. However, if you need **heavy-duty towing, extreme performance, or long-term reliability without maintenance**, a **newer GM transmission (e.g., 6L80, 6T70) or a high-end aftermarket unit (e.g., Tremec, Borla)** may be a better long-term investment.

---

### **Recommendation**

- **Buy a 4L60E if:**

- You are working on a **budget-friendly project** (e.g., restoring a 1998 2003 GM sedan/truck).

- You plan to **keep maintenance strict** (regular fluid changes, cooling, and timely repairs).

- You need a **transmission for a performance build** but are willing to **upgrade components** (torque converter, cooler, valve body).

- You prefer **easy DIY repairs** and have access to **aftermarket parts**.

- **Avoid or Consider Alternatives if:**

- You need **heavy-duty towing** (consider a **6L80 or 6L90**).

- You want **minimal maintenance** (newer transmissions like **6T70 or 10-speed** may be more reliable long-term).

- You are running **extreme horsepower** (a **custom-built transmission** may be necessary).

- You want **plug-and-play reliability** without worrying about **valve body or band failures**.

**Final Verdict:** The **4L60E is a great transmission for the right application**, but it **demands attention** to avoid costly failures. If you are prepared for **maintenance and potential upgrades**, it remains one of the **best-used GM transmissions** available.

Details:

Changed My Mind. Found a Better Price. Just Didn't Like it.

part #: 17804243 price

  • $4892.58

specifications autotransmissionsgo:

  • brand: Gm
  • mpn: 17804243
  • part type: Transmission
  • manufacturer warranty: 1 Year
  • fitment type: Direct Replacement
  • genuine oem: Yes
  • replaces part number: 17804052

offer autotransmissionsgo:

  • started: June 8, 2026
  • options: Ship-to-home
  • availability: In Stock
  • quantity: 1
  • sold: 0

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  • policy: Returns Accepted
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general autotransmissionsgo:

  • Car Truck Parts Accessories > Transmission Drivetrain > Automatic Transmission
  • condition: Remanufactured

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  • city: Garland, Texas
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part type: transmission, manufacturer warranty: 1 year, fitment type: direct replacement, genuine oem: yes, replaces part number: 17804052,
category: auto parts > car truck parts accessories > transmission drivetrain > automatic transmission, sku: 24118779940793892,
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