Here's why:
* Mounting points: The 4L80E's bellhousing bolt pattern and transmission mounting points won't likely match those of a half-ton truck's transmission. You'd need an adapter plate at minimum.
* Output shaft: The output shaft may not be compatible with the truck's driveshaft. This would require a custom driveshaft.
* Computer control: The 4L80E is electronically controlled and requires a compatible controller and wiring harness. Integrating this into a half-ton truck's existing system is a major undertaking. It likely requires a standalone controller or significant rewiring and ECU programming.
* Torque capacity mismatch: A 4L80E is designed for heavier-duty applications and can handle significantly more torque than a typical half-ton truck engine produces. While this *could* be beneficial for towing, it might be overkill and potentially lead to other drivetrain issues.
In short, while mechanically *possible*, fitting a 4L80E to a half-ton truck is a complex and expensive project requiring considerable fabrication and specialized knowledge. It's not something a casual mechanic could undertake. It's far more practical to use a transmission designed for the specific half-ton truck model.