351C adding early AOD

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May 15, 2020 | 05:14 PM

bjmayberry2

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From: Wentzville, MO

351C adding early AOD

My 53 Ford Panel had a 351C & FMX out of a 71 Mustang. I just picked up a early AOD that came out of a 351W Crown Vic. It has a rod (like a kick down rod) for the AOD. Any one had any experience with this set up and wanna share any pointers. I have the AOD bolted up using the FMX flex plate. That seemed to go well but I’m worried about the AOD linkage.

May 15, 2020 | 07:05 PM

85e150

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Early AODs were trouble. There were several updates, and '88 to '93 is the preferred box. That said, get it adjusted, keep in from hunting and you are probably good.

The rod is for the TV linkage, critical for proper operation. Adjustment:

https://www.google.com/search?q=ford...HUsAW8xb3QDg43

A long retrofit story.
https://www.hotrod.com/articles/hot-...-shift-timing/

Adjustment again:
https://static.summitracing.com/glob...tci-431000.pdf

Ford AOD Transmission

May 15, 2020 | 08:56 PM

bjmayberry2

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From: Wentzville, MO

Great info. Does this mean I should change to a cable? Seems most of the info addressed using a cable instead of a rod.

May 15, 2020 | 11:24 PM

85e150

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As OEM it was a rod or cable depending on the vehicle. As the Hot Rod article points out, a retrofit often mixes parts from different years or models, leading to performance issues.

You may have to sort out what the OEM setup was for your particular transmission.

I would think a cable setup would easier to work with in a retrofit situation. Lokar sells such kits IIRC.

Easy for me to say.