LM7 5.3 into an '88 Camaro — what's a must-buy, and is a 4L60E enough or should I go 4L80E?

A 4L60E is usually enough. A stock LM7 makes about 315–335 lb-ft, inside a stock 4L60E's 300–360 lb-ft range, and a third-gen Camaro is a light car. The 4L60E is also lighter and more compact than a 4L80E, which helps in a tight transmission tunnel.

Go 4L80E (or a built 4L60E) if you plan a lot more power, sticky tires or hard launches. A built street 4L60E handles about 450–500 hp.

	Torque it's built for	Notes
4L60E, stock	about 300–360 lb-ft (≈300–400 hp in a typical street car)	Wikipedia lists a 360 lb-ft rating; about 133 lb dry
4L65E, stock	up to 380 lb-ft	Stronger planetaries and an extra 3–4 clutch; from 2001 behind the 6.0 Vortec
4L60E, built street unit	≈450–500 hp	Upgraded 3–4 pack, input shaft, sun shell, valve body
4L80E, stock	440 lb-ft	Heavier-duty truck unit, rated to 18,000 lb GVWR (axle/vehicle dependent)

For the rest of the parts list — mounts, pan, harness, fuel — use the swap planner and the third-gen swap guide.