I have a 1989 Ford F250 / 5.8L with a 3 speed Auto in it. I like the trans and have read that it is a great one to keep (bulletproof) but I need to start driving between states and will be putting some highway miles on the truck. I don't want to do these miles at 3000 RPM so I'm looking for an OD solution (truck only has 50,000 miles on it and I want to keep it in good shape).

That's the background, here are the questions....

- Is the E4OD Trans a simple bolt up replacement to my 3 speed ?

- Will I suffer in any way replacing my 3 speed with the E4OD ? (I have heard the E4OD has had it's problems mechanically)

- How does the E4OD overdirve compare to using the Gear Vendors with my 3 speed ? I'm reading that with the Gear Vendors OD, my 60 mph / 3000 rpm will change to 60 mph / 2300 rpm. IS this comperable to the E4OD ?

- Since my 3 speed seems to be so highly reviewed, is the better option the 3 speed with the Gear Vendors ? I do work the truck, plowing, moving equipment etc.

Thanks for your advice !

- Mark

 

Well I am pretty sure if you can source out an E4OD depending on your motor (460 or 351W) it will bolt up.

E4OD's aren't too strong in stock form here is what they need:

1. Full TransGo shift kit ($100)
2. Upgrade to the 45 element intermiediate sprag ($50)
3. 6 Pinion front and rear planetaries ($325)
4. Stuff 8 clutches in the direct drum of 3rd gear
5. 20000gvw+ Trans Cooler ($40)

That trans will then be ready for action. It will shift far, far faster with the TransGo but still be streetable and not neck snapping...but can be if you want.

The GV unit is an aux OD unit, the E4OD has OD built in. The E4OD is basically an electronically operated C6 with OD.

A properly built C6 will take the same abuse as the C6. I'd say TCI is the only company who will set you up with a standalone PCM for the shifts of the trans. If my fully built AOD can't hold a 408 I have planned I am going to go with an E4OD in my truck.

 

Hit Man,

Thanks for the input. What is you opinion of the GV unit versus the E4OD ? After the mod's you outlined it looks to be about the same price either way I go. The GV looks like less work.

- Mark

 

The GV vs E4OD both do basically what you need. The E4OD does have better 1st and 2nd ratios...but you can put a low gear set in a C6 also. The E4OD is electronic and the C6 isn't.

Exactly pricewise...they are both close to the same when all said and done. I'd say the C6+GV is going to be the easiest to install.

 

US Gear make one also and it seems to shift smoother than the gear vendors that I have driven. My 2 cents

 

Cool. Do you have info on them?

 

No but they are on the web. My brother-in-law used to work for them. http://www.usgear.com