* 4L60E: A four-speed automatic transmission. This was very common.
* 4L80E: A four-speed automatic transmission, typically found in heavier-duty trucks or those with larger engines.
* NV3500: A five-speed manual transmission.
To know for sure which transmission is in a *specific* 1996 Silverado 4x4, you'll need to check the vehicle's identification number (VIN) or look at the transmission itself (usually has a tag with identifying information). The owner's manual will also state the transmission type.