Tranny questions...
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 277
Likes: 0
From: Milan, TN
Tranny questions...
Okay, here we go... my question: Is the shifting in my '86 AOD (302)computer controlled? It's slipping (badly), and if it's not computer controlled, I would like to put in a 4 speed (they're more fun to drive, and I can get one fairly cheap). Any recommendations on a (4 speed) tranny? Thanks in advance.
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 237
Likes: 0
From: Clearwater USA
Tranny questions...
No, your AOD on an 86 is worked by whats called a TV cable. It is connected to the top of the intake manifold where the throttle cable is (if you have EFI if you have a carb it looks like a tranny kick down linkage). If you have EFI be careful when discoonecting it slides forward then up to pull it off. Hope this helps,
P.S. You can get a hot little AOD from Art Carr Tranny's it can handle up to 800 horses.
Rick
86 302 EFI, bored 60 over, AOD,
Headman Headers, Flowmaster 40 series,
2 inch dual exhaust, MSD ignition
P.S. You can get a hot little AOD from Art Carr Tranny's it can handle up to 800 horses.
Rick
86 302 EFI, bored 60 over, AOD,
Headman Headers, Flowmaster 40 series,
2 inch dual exhaust, MSD ignition
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,019
Likes: 3
From: Bismarck, ND
Tranny questions...
As far as recommendations for the 4-speed, my '85 302EFI came from the factory with a T-18. This is supposed to be a tough tranny, and though mine needed a set of bearings at 145K, I have had no other problems. With the granny 1st gear and 4-Low, you can pull a house down. The only drawback is, of course, the lack of overdrive. Think about this one; if you can get a stronger-than-stock AOD it may be attractive. Otherwise, I'd look for a T-18, as it would likely be an easy swap (I think the transfer case may be the same for both) since they were installed in these trucks from Ford. If you go forth with it, I would recommend a Centerforce Dual Friction clutch (budget allowing). Much smoother and easier-driving than stock! 
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 277
Likes: 0
From: Milan, TN
Tranny questions...
Thanks a lot. I guess I'll start looking for a T-18. I'll also check out the Centerforce clutch. I've heard that the holes for the clutch pedal and floor shifter are already there(punchouts). Is this true? Thanks again.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,019
Likes: 3
From: Bismarck, ND
Tranny questions...
It would make sense, but I couldn't say for sure (on the holes). As I recall, though, the floor pan area over the transmission hump had a bolt-in, removable service plate that the shifters and boots ran through. If the automatic plate doesn't have a knock-out, and you aren't comfortable with cutting it unguided, I would think you would be able to pick up the plate from a manual Bronco (and, possibly, pickup?) to make the swap.
