there was some chat here about that a while ago, but I can't remember if anyone's done it: can a 380 box go into a TW?

IIRC I think MadMagna was talking about this some time ago, but I can't recall all the details.

Somehow, I suspect there might be some issues preventing it being a straightforward install.

It wasn't a straight forward install.
And from what I remember though it was working, there were some teething issues. I am not sure if these have been rectified or not

There where small issues at the time with the shifting of the box. Until he had the time to swap another one in, the job was put on hold

how about a 380 engine + trans? does that work in a TW?

how about a 380 engine + trans? does that work in a TW?

380 motor will work perfectly okay with a TW trans.

Pardon my ignorance but is there a huge difference between the 380 auto trans and the TW auto trans besides the 4SPD in the base model? I had no issues with the 5spd in my ex KW and I drove it hard with tippy all the time.

There have been very little 380 autos go compared to magnas.

According to the numbers I've seen the 380 auto has a taller final drive (close to 4 speed Magna auto final drive ratio, ~10% taller than Magna 5 speed final drive), 2nd gear is slightly shorter and 5th gear is slightly taller; other gear ratios the same. Can't comment on mechanical or behavioural differences.

There have been very little 380 autos go compared to magnas.

Most of them were due to wave spring failures which was resolved in the TL/W series. A lot of prior failures were also due to incorrect trans oil used.