What can I do with this 84 AOD?

[mustangpro]

I'm converting a 90 4cyl Mustang convertible to a 88 speed density 5.0 setup. I'm trying to decide what tranny to install. I'm not planning on racing or modding the motor, just want a nice lazy V8 cruiser. Years ago I pulled an AOD from a low mileage 84 Crown Vic. It's been sitting in my basement for a couple of years now. Can I use this tranny in the Mustang? Will the tail shaft need to be changed to a shorter version? Also, do you guys think just a new filter and fresh fluid will get it back up to running? I don't have a lot of money to throw at this project. Is there something cheap I can do to the tranny to make it dependable? Again, I'm throwing stock 88 GT HP at it.

[SilverFox]

If you convince me this is a budget project, then yes it will work. That AOD SHOULD be the short version, there is a ford pn on the tailshaft housing that begins with F3 short or F5 being long....if completely stock.

As for sitting for years....ATF over years builds up alot of varnish, and where lubrication is not, rust can form....take the pan off and see what condition the fluid and steel bolts and stuff look like...if all okay, then great.

I would however do yourself a favor and just source a 89-93 AOD cheap that works from any locals....it will save you any unknowns or seal damage from sitting also.

But, I would say it will be okay.
my crystal ball is in the shop.

[mustangpro]

Thanks Silver. My daughter will need new hearing aids soon ($3800, OUCH!), so yeah I need to use parts I have laying around the shop if possible. Right now I'm into the bodywork stage of the car, I'm sort of planning the drivetrain config before it's time to wrench. I remember you saying that pre-89 AOD was a bad choice. But it held up to granny and the heavy Crown Vic, thought maybe it would with stand a stock 5.0 Mustang. Can I get rebuilt valvebodies cheap? Would Aamco or Cottsman sell them? And what years could I install on an 84? Or heck, how much would you charge to thouroughly clean and refresh a VB?

[SilverFox]

89-93 IS THE VB you would want.
The 84 AOD also has only a 4 possibly 5 clutch fwd drum, thrust washer where bearings are now, and very poor internals...but like I said, for budget it will cruise...but not be beat on.

[mustangpro]

So will an 89-93 VB just bolt on?

[SilverFox]

yes, just remove the accumulator in the drivers side front corner and bolt it in.