TCU TurboLamik

Hi guys,

I need some help with understanding the differences between 8HP generations.

Lets assume that all following transmissions are more than enough for my project when it comes to maximum torque:

1. 1gen 8hp70
2. 2gen 8hp50
3. 3gen 8hp51

1gen - According to 8hp.info and some wikipedia, the 1gen should be the slowest and "worst" one.
2gen - Brings major internal improvements as well as better gear ratio's.
3gen - Minor improvements over the 2gen, also does not work with TCU without swapping the valve board.

So my question is, with the turbolamik TCU will i feel some improvement if i choose 2gen transmission instead of the 1st gen? or i should just find the cheapest 1gen available and call it a day?


Thank you in advance.

My take is that you need to build the transmission for the application—meaning the clutch materials and hard parts should match what you expect it to do. If you’re building a hot rod that you occasionally drive to work, almost any of them will work just fine.

I’ve had 50-series units hold torque they really shouldn’t have, mainly because they were maintained with frequent fluid changes. On the flip side, I’ve seen people buy a used transmission and then blame everyone else when it suddenly finds an extra neutral.

It’s honestly hard to give a one-size-fits-all answer. Personally, I’d take a good deal if I found one, but I always base the decision on torque capacity. If you’re close to the advertised “max” I’d step up to the next size if space allows.

Hi M4comp,


Forum seems to be a lil bit dead, so thank you for the response, was not expecting that..

I opted for 8HP50. I really wanted 8HP51 as it is the latest gen and according to all info i found should be the most efficient and overall the best one, but not supported by TCU unfortunately. I think i will be just happy enough with 8HP50, i will probably never reach its maximum "official" torque anyway.

Best Regards,
Wachu