Transmission Question

[Colonist]

I had originally planned to use a TKO500 behind the Ford 302. Recent developments have made it difficult for me to use a standard transmission. So a reorientation towards an automatic transmission is necessary if I am going to be able to drive this creature.

The available choices -- those that are readily available in the marketplace without trading the first-born for them -- seem to be the C4, C6, AOD, AODE, and 4R70W. I realize there are various preferences and biases at work in a final choice, so I would like to solicit what your choices would be and the opinions/reasons behind them.

I'm really not happy about having to do this, but you gotta work with what you got, whether it is money, materials, or your own capabilities.

[willy]

looked at doing that need to go with the AOD or AODE the others are different sizes ( longer or shorter but belive the Aod will fit the mounts, look on the roadster forum for the tunnel mod s needed but is is not that much work.

[kgkeys]

Late model (91-92) AODs or a reman AOD seem to popular for roadsters and coupes. The main reasons are that most of the issues were worked of them and you don't need a computer to run them like you would an AODE or 4R70W. The main issue installing one in a roadster is modifying the removable A-frame mount to accommodate the pan. QSL and MRSQSL are putting an AOD in her coupe, I believe. Evvander11? Can't remember the spelling of his username. Has an AOD in his roadster. He has good pics in his build thread on the other forum.

-Kyle

[QSL]

We are putting an AOD in our coupe. We picked it because the AODE was too expensive with the computer and I also did not want the added wiring. We went with TCI streetfighter. It looks good and has good reviews, but I will need to make a kickdown for it. We have not mounted the unit yet, but will in the next couple months. I don't know what the fitment issues are. But looking at it so far, I think its going to fit just fine. Also, the coupe does not have an A frame under the trans like the roadster does. I think this will simplify the install. One thing to think about is mounting the shifter INSIDE the trans tunnel, so you can lower it and make it look more like a manual.

We will be starting a thread on this topic when we get further in our build since there seems to be very little info about it. Hopefully it will help some others out.

[willy]

QSL don't forget the "TV" cable

[michael everson]

I have done a few Auto cars over the years. First is to modify the mount frame. No big deal. On a couple of cars there was interference wher the starter mounts. There is an angle frame bar that that hits on some cars. This bar may be hand welded in and thats why it hits on some but not all. I have to cut it off and move it.
Mike

[Rich_S]

I went with the AOD for the overdrive and to avoid the electronics of AODE and newer versions.

It's a lock-up version that will help lower transmission heating on long runs.

It's mated to a vintage 302 and mounted about 1 inch forward (by reversing the motor mounts).

The forward placement also gives you clearance for the transmission dip-stick at the fire wall and exhaust as they pass the foot boxes.

No frame clearance issues, rear mount pad on frame requires minor widening of bolt slots or a custom mount.

Drive shaft yoke is same as T5 just need a bit longer drive shaft.

I used the B&M Hammer shifter and Lokar shifter and TV cables. Shifter install is a bit technical as it needs to be set lower in the tunnel. Although it looks great, I don't care for the Hammer as the shift indicator seems small and not easy to see what gear you're in, even when back lit. This should become a none issue over time as you become familiar with shifting. Course, if you are not going to hammer gears then just put it in drive and go.

I didn't care for the automatic idea, but my wife wants to drive it once and awhile. The car is in the go cart stage and I think the auto is growing on me. We are running 3.73 gearing and the little 302 has no problem chirping the old school 28 inch Goodyears.

There is a ton of "how to" info on the web regarding the various ford transmissions, have fun with your project

Rich

[Colonist]

Thanks, everybody, for the information and for pointing me in the direction for more. The AOD looks like the most reasonable choice.

QSL, I'll keep an eye on your progress. I'm anxious to find out what mods might be needed and don't want to get too far ahead of myself until you can share your experience. If you think about it as you go along, and can spare the time, a template for the mods to share with those of us who come after you would be of immense value. I see you are also thinking about a mounting point for the shifter, I suppose because you are planning to mount it lower, inside the tunnel.

Mike E, any chance you have a picture of which bar to wary of for starter interference? Or a diagram of the mod to the mount frame?

Also any advice on transmission suppliers who are reputable or to stay away from? Or is it best to try to find a local reputable shop to supply or rebuild a transmission? Any recommendations on brand and type of shifters?

I have a huge supply of question marks, but I'll try to limit the number in any one post....

[CraigS]

A friend has a MkI w/ and AOD. I died 2 years ago and another friend had an in at a local Ford dealer. He got an AOD from Ford for the MkI and it was definately under $2000 but I don't know the exact price.

[loeffler1]

CraigS

If you died, are you writing this from the grave? LOL

[Colonist]

A friend has a MkI w/ and AOD. I died 2 years ago and another friend had an in at a local Ford dealer. He got an AOD from Ford for the MkI and it was definately under $2000 but I don't know the exact price.

Right, AODs are available from many sources including Ford. But according to an old article in Car Craft, the original equipment transmissions are designed to take 250 to 300 horsepower, somewhat less than I would need. This seems to dictate either an aftermarket AOD from someone like Lentech, PAT, TCI, Gearstar, or Monster, or else a performance rebuild by a trustworthy shop. I've looked at many reviews of AODs, and opinions on Mustang and other sites. All of the manufacturers seem to have their adherents.

So is the choice just a crapshoot? Or is there a leader in the crowd?