The 1980 - 1986 model trucks with an AOD used a TV rod. Ford later replaced the TV rod with a TV cable in 1987 when they started exclusively using electronic fuel injection with the AOD. And Ford didn't use throttle-body fuel injection on the F150s. You either got a carburetor, a feedback carburetor, or EFI.

The TV rod directly controls the line pressure in the AOD. If the line pressure is not set correctly or if the TV rod is not connected to the carburetor correctly, it will burn up the transmission.

And if the geometry between the TV rod or TV cable is not exactly proportionate to the movement of the throttle, the TV rod or cable will get pulled out of adjustment. And when that happens, the line pressure is off again. This condition will burn up the transmission.

The problem with the aftermarket Holley and Edelbrock carburetors is that they do not have a kickdown bracket that will work with the AOD TV rod, and their throttle levers are not symmetrical to use a TV cable.

To correct the first problem, you will need to get a Lokar TV cable to replace the TV rod:

Lokar KD2AODHT - Lokar Stainless Steel Hi-Tech Kickdown Kits - Overview - SummitRacing.com

To correct the second problem, you will need to get a TV corrector bracket that bolts on to the Holley carburetor throttle lever. If you don't, the TV cable will get pulled out of adjustment every time you drive it. Out of adjustment AOD = burned up AOD.

TCI Auto 376715 - TCI TV Cable Bracket Corrector Kits - Overview - SummitRacing.com

Remember: when you get all this set up, it is extremely important to set the TV cable correctly!