- Joined
- June 17, 2004
- Messages
- 24,442
- Reaction score
- 4,895
- City, State
- Knoxville, TN
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 98 Limited AWD 302
I'm wanting to use a Holley Terminator X system to run the V-8 in my swap in a 2003 ST that was 4.0 SOHC powered . I assume that I will need to leave the old PCM in place to operate some of the other systems in the vehicle. I also believe that I will need to ground the blue with an orange stripe PATS wire so that the starter solenoid will work. Do I just need to remove the CEL bulb so that the partially unhooked PCM that is tripping the light will not have a light to trip? I'm sure that someone must have done a swap similar to this. I'm not starting with a 99 to 01 donor Explorer. Just a 5.0 long block and a 1989 AOD, pre electronic. There is also a Dakota Digital box that needs to be used to make the speedometer and tachometer function.
I wouldn't build an AOD for that project unless your budget is very low, and that Holley X system is not a cheap one. The AOD has big deficiencies compared to the 4R70W, and the real extra cost for the 4R is $700 at most. I've got plans for at least two 4R's in older Fords, so I will be hunting the Quick Shift 4 to run those. They have turned up complete for about $400 several times.
The AOD can be built with many 4R guts parts. But the inherent weak input shaft, the big rpm drop shifting to 3rd, and poor shift point control, are big weaknesses. There's smaller things too, but those alone should make anyone try very hard to make a 4R work instead. I have an AOD in my 92 Lincoln, and it's low mileage, stock. One of my first tasks will be to build a 4R70, without the "W" wide ratio. I'll build it with AODE planetary parts(4), to make the ratios match the AOD. So I'll remove the AOD weak links, and end with a strong trans that has the same ratios, plus will shift where I tune it to, for all gears. The cost will be that controller and its harness, plus the work to adapt it to my car, and a few upgrade parts.