Sam Cooper
Newbie
4l80e is definitely stout enough for a normal NA 8.1, I'd almost say most NA 8.1s.
I do think that the 8.1s are cool. IMO though if anyone wants to mod them more than just a cam swap it might be more beneficial to just start with a L29, turn it into a 496, and throw some really good heads at it and a good intake manifold.
I have definitely considered the idea of building a stroker L29, but then I would want to add the individual coil over plug and maybe even the 7-4 firing update. The timing sensor for the computer can be handled with a 8.1 timing cover or maybe an aftermarket (I saw one somewhere online), I haven't yet sourced a cam for the firing order update. I might even consider spread port heads if I can get a the companion pieces. But then why not start with a big bore block? This can quickly turn into a rabbit hole. But what a rabbit.
The tuning for the 2014+ 6l80e is definitely complex, I can vouch for that lol from what I've read they're quite strong when tuned correctly, even stock. Apparently a bad tune can kill them though.
Where can I find information about the 6L80 tuning?