does anyone know if the solenoid idea for firmer shifts actually works in the 5ltr's? was told today by an auto place that the EL 5ltrs have a seperate computer and it will just over ride the solenoid or something and go back to how it originally was. Is this true? And is it true that there are no actual shift kits available for the auto boxes in the el 5ltrs?

the kit is wired into the trans ecu for the v8's
and yes it works

Hey mate.

Partly true. The trans control module monitors the current draw of the S5 solenoid and will modify the current going to the S5 until it 'see what it wants to see'.

If all you do is reduce the current going to the S5, the trans control module will increase current until it sees the desired signal in it's 'check' line. It will do this until it reaches its limit, at which time it s**t itself and sends the box into limp-home-mode (3rd gear only).

As such, a properly-wired shift kit will have another resistor in the 'check' line to ensure the TCM is fooled into thinking the S5 is operating normally.

The kit for an EL 5L is the "EA/All V8" kit from www.mechanicalforums.com (DIY) or can order pre-built from www.shiftkits.com.au