I will start off with my trucks specs:
1987 F-350 4x4 regular cab long bed
460ci carbureted
C6 trans, BW1356 t-case
Sterling 10.25 rear axle
Dana 60 high pinion front axle

My dad bought this thing new, and I got it when he passed. She has 74k on the clock, already been thru the motor with a very mild cam and carb. Not wanting a radical mill- as Im sure you guys know, this thing has enough power to turn the world!

So here is my problem- big blocks don't like highway speeds. This baby is my tow rig/ support truck/ expo vehicle, and I want to do some traveling in it. I love the inherit strength of the C6, but she really needs another gear. I have considered a Gear Vendors unit, but would rather keep it all Ford. So what would be my best choice of trans that would bolt up to my big-block, preferably keep the BW1356 tcase, and not create a ton of headaches and alterations? This truck is in nearly all original condition, and I really don't want to start cutting it up if I can help it. Wanted to get the opinions of guys who know these Fords better than I do. I have the skills to do whatever (ASE Master Tech.,30 years fabrication experience, etc.) just want to find the best option. Want something as bullet-proof as the C6 (if that's possible) and not TOO expensive!

 

Would you consider a manual trans swap? If so, the ZF 5-speed that can be found in these trucks might be a good option.

 

Want to keep it an automatic. Had a chance to pick up a ZF setup out of an 89 F250, but passed. Dont want to change that much stuff, plus Im getting to old to shift on my highway vehicle- kept my rock-crawler a stick, and that's plenty of leg-work! ;-)

 

a hd reman E40D.

 

A big block E4OD is the only Ford trans option you have and that is a computer controlled trans so it's not a simple install in your case.

 

Not too worried about it being computer controlled. Just did a little research and have found a couple stand alone controllers for this transmission which are not that bad price-wise. I guess my biggest question is the transmissions overall strength. I know my C6 is bulletproof, how tough is the E40D in comparison? I don't mean in built-up form, but as a stock unit. If I were to get a lower mileage used trans, can I expect it to live behind my mild big block?

 

Depends on the PO, but with regular maintenance and good driving sense it should be just fine.

 

My stock, original E4OD has 284,000 Kms on it behind my 460... I'd say they're alright...

 

I'd at least but a beefy torque converter in it. A common failure is the TC letting go, and taking the trans with it. (I've 2 in diesels, and 1 behind a 460 that went that route...)
Find a '95 or later trans if possible. Ford did a lot of reliability upgrades in it for '95...

 

I greatly appreciate the help! Looks like I will be on the hunt for a trans. Anyone want to hazard a guess on the total length of the E40D compared to the C6? I am assuming that my 1356 will still bolt up, but is the spline any different, or am I going to need to get a new tcase?

 

Subscribing. I wish there was an overdrive kit to put in the C6. That would be
so awesome. The best of both worlds. Some would say that is an AOD. I don't
think so.

 

Throw me a link to those controllers. Thanks.

 

Looks like the favorite is this one- www.usshift.com

One that is pricey but looks like the Cadillac of controllers- COMPUSHIFT II

Couple others that simply piggyback on the factory computer, but those look like the nicer of the units. The Compushift can be tied into the CAN network of other systems which make me think it is much more expandable and more trick, but double the cost.

 

the E40D/4R100 is the c6 based OD trans.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_C6_transmission

your wallet is the only limiting factor.they can be built up to hold up to very high hp/torque modern diesel engines.

 

I was going to suggest the AOD, but I will instead ask: why do you feel the AOD is not a good option?