I was told to swap it when it goes. The 4L60E have issues shifting hard.
The Hard shifting there referring to is most likely an P1870 Code, which is a trans component slip code caused by a worn valve in the valve body EASY FIX.
What happens is the vale leaks internally and the computer picks up a slip and commands MAXium Line pressure which makes it shift HARD. Sonnex makes an updated valve to correct this and you dont even need the reemers
Dave for what you use a truck for the 4L80E is NOT needed hotrod is right you can build a 60E to hold up. As I am sure you are aware I did convert mine from the 60E to the 80E. The number 1 reason I did was Towing.
There are alot of things to consider with trans failures, IMO the number 1 reason is Heat, but the Number 2 IMO THE MOST OVERLOOKED is proper gear ratios. Which is alos a factor of HEAT.
Try this on for size, Your 97 is likely to have 3.42's which IMO is to HIGH for long lasting 4l60E use with any amount of pulling. I personally think they should have a min. of 3.73's. NOW if you were to convert your 60 to an 80E you would think that you would hold up better right? WRONG WRONG WRONG
The 4L60E has a 3.06 First gear, as where the 4L80E has a 2.48 first gear, Just changing the trans is NOT going to correct any upcoming failures actually they will come earlier.
The Only way to help your trans last along time is.
1. Preventive maintance
2. Rebuild with ALL available updates
3. Flush IF NOT replace Cooler
4. Add external Oil cooler
5. RE GEAR THE DIFFERENTIALS to atleast 3.73's
If you really want the 4L80E then I would reccomend ATLEAST 4.10 gears along with the swap.
Oh yea if you really want to convert to the 4L80E then yes I can help you with the pin outs and what all you would need to do for the swap.
DO NOT buy into the buying a "KIT" for the swap it is a waste of money Your truck already has ALL the Wires needed for the Trans, there just in the wrong places, really quite simple to convert your harness for a 4L80E