AOD problems

jfharris · 03-17-2003, 11:12 AM

I just changed the transmission fluid in my 86 Mustang automatic and when I really get into the throttle the motor revs up really high and it feels like no power in going to the ground. The repair manual says to put Dexron II in it, but the guy at the parts store said that it is not made anymore. He told me to put in Mercon/Dexron III. Is this true? The transmission has the proper amount of fluid in it( Not low and definately not too much)....What can I do?

ChunkFunky · 03-17-2003, 03:45 PM

well I'm no tranny guy... but I would think a tripp to your local tranny guy would help... I mean.. it could be a blown torque converter or a bunch of other INTERNAL stuff... how many miles are on it... my AOD went at about 90K...
-as

Capri306 · 03-18-2003, 12:59 AM

The guy at the parts store was right. Dexron II (that's the GM name for Mercon) is no longer made. Dexron III replaced it. If you can find Dexron II anymore, it's going to be a collector's item and NOT something you want to be putting in your car.

Mercon/Dexron III is the correct fluid. DO NOT use Mercon V or Type F (well, unless you're racing).

Given the AOD's reputation and Ford's lack of action fixing their inherent problems, here's your most likely scenario: the clutches and/or bands are most likely shot. The throttle valve (TV) cable grommet in the throttle body's lever arm is more than likely shot, too, and should be replaced with a new nylon or brass piece (available at most Ford dealerships). That little grommet has been the deathblow to most AODs because if it gets loose (and they do), you will lose TV line pressure and get the anemic shifting associated with it. Over time, this low TV pressure will cook the clutches and bands because they are simply slipping and generating heat instead of engaging and doing useful work.

On the other hand, mebbe you should just clean out the throttle body with brake parts cleaner when you drop the pan and change the filter. Could just be crudded up. That and check out the shift linkage, and the TV cable for proper adjustment. Good luck!

BTW, if you DO have to replace the trans, get a warranty IN WRITING.

03-17-2003, 11:12 AM	#1
jfharris Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Raleigh, NC Posts: 11	AOD problems I just changed the transmission fluid in my 86 Mustang automatic and when I really get into the throttle the motor revs up really high and it feels like no power in going to the ground. The repair manual says to put Dexron II in it, but the guy at the parts store said that it is not made anymore. He told me to put in Mercon/Dexron III. Is this true? The transmission has the proper amount of fluid in it( Not low and definately not too much)....What can I do?

03-17-2003, 03:45 PM	#2
ChunkFunky Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Tustin, CA Posts: 465	well I'm no tranny guy... but I would think a tripp to your local tranny guy would help... I mean.. it could be a blown torque converter or a bunch of other INTERNAL stuff... how many miles are on it... my AOD went at about 90K... -as __________________ '89 GT Convertible: TFS TW Heads, TFS Street Intake, TFS Stage 1 Cam, FMS 1.6 RRs, 24# Injectors, Pro-M 75mm MAF, No Name CAI, 3.73s, O/R H-Pipe, FlowMasters, AOD w/ Trans-Go Shift Kit

03-18-2003, 12:59 AM	#3
Capri306 Moderator Join Date: Sep 1998 Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA Posts: 1,001	The guy at the parts store was right. Dexron II (that's the GM name for Mercon) is no longer made. Dexron III replaced it. If you can find Dexron II anymore, it's going to be a collector's item and NOT something you want to be putting in your car. Mercon/Dexron III is the correct fluid. DO NOT use Mercon V or Type F (well, unless you're racing). Given the AOD's reputation and Ford's lack of action fixing their inherent problems, here's your most likely scenario: the clutches and/or bands are most likely shot. The throttle valve (TV) cable grommet in the throttle body's lever arm is more than likely shot, too, and should be replaced with a new nylon or brass piece (available at most Ford dealerships). That little grommet has been the deathblow to most AODs because if it gets loose (and they do), you will lose TV line pressure and get the anemic shifting associated with it. Over time, this low TV pressure will cook the clutches and bands because they are simply slipping and generating heat instead of engaging and doing useful work. On the other hand, mebbe you should just clean out the throttle body with brake parts cleaner when you drop the pan and change the filter. Could just be crudded up. That and check out the shift linkage, and the TV cable for proper adjustment. Good luck! BTW, if you DO have to replace the trans, get a warranty IN WRITING. __________________ Capri306, Moderator The Mustang Works Online 1979 Mercury Capri 1987 5.0L Mustang LX Notchback 1993 5.8L Eddie Bauer Bronco

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