aod/aode which is better?

[BK_CAULEY]

which transmission is better. im thinking the aode is but want a better opinion i have had mustangs with the aode and they feel like they are much stouter and i have had shift kits put in them and they are cheaper than the one in my aod. i never had one rebuilt but have had shops tell me the aode cost more to rebuild than an aod and if i want to swap in an aode in place of my aod what all would i need or is this not neccesary or not a good idea? thanks guys.

 

[Nopantz]

AODE is newer and is stronger. I believe there was a write up in Modified Mustangs in the January 07 issue, you might want to check that out. Also for all your automatic questions head over to clickclickracing.com . Its the best source for Ford Automatic Questions.

 

[superhuaman]

It is easier to put a "shift kit" in an AODE because it is done electronically, with a chip or box. An AODE will be more expensive and stronger, yes, and you can tune shift points and such, but you will need a stand-alone transmission computer for a Fox ($400-$600). Or you can use an SN95 ecu and wiring harness...cheaper, but more work.

 

[2000xp8]

Upping the fluid pressure with a chip or box on an aode is not as effective as a real shift kit.
Either trans is fine, just put a real shift kit in either one.

I know, i have a shift kit in my explorer which is an aode. And we had an aod in our 90 vert years ago.

 

[superhuaman]

What does a "real shift kit" do different from just changing the programming of the AODE module?

 

[89streetbeast]

the j-mod type of shift kit is whats suggested for those AODE trannys. tccoa's website has a bunch of info on how to do it the right way. theres a couple guys on that site that sell the whole valvebody setup for your type of shift/application. last time i remember they were around 350-400 bucks. the transgo shift kits are junk. had one in my 94tbird. worked fine for awhile then the tranny went tips up. wished i woulda went with a jmod

 

[89streetbeast]

heres a link for the diy shift kit mod for aode's http://www.tccoa.com/articles/tranny/shiftybusiness.html


imho by the time you get done buying a tranny, having it built for your specs , doing the proper shift kit and getting a stand alone harness for it, you could buy a very nice built AOD that will handle quite alot. not saying the aode's are junk but its just not worth the hassle unless you like doin that sort of stuff and have alot of free time and money on your hands

 

[HISSIN50]

I don't get why the question even came up. Unless you like the electronically controller trannies, there's no point. That said, there are a couple of members here running a stand-alone controller if desiring their thoughts.

If swapping, why not go for a manual trans? Or go with a stout AOD build like everyone said. I think Mansonozz had a decent thread on the Corral not long ago which touched upon a lot of good stuff for an AOD build. He's real savvy and dose his homework so touching base with him (if you decide to go that route) might be a good idea.

Random thoughts.
Good luck.

 

[2000xp8]

What does a "real shift kit" do different from just changing the programming of the AODE module?

A real shift kit, basically is just the drilling out of fluid passage holes in the valve body. Relieves pressure that's already there.

A shift improver, that is not mechanical, Ups the line pressure forcing more fluid through the same size holes.

 

[superhuaman]

Ahh, I see. One is reversible and the other is not (at least, not easily).