Ford Automatic OverDrive vs AODE vs 4R70W

Autorestomod takes a look at the different choices in Automatic OverDrive (AOD) transmissions. They hook up with Monster Transmission and Baumann Electronic Controls and use a US Shift Quick 4 with this install…

General Gearing Information

• C-4 2.46 1.46 1.00
• C-6 2.46 1.46 1.00
• AOD 2.40 1.47 1.00 .67
• AODE 2.40 1.47 1.00 .67
• 4R70W 2.84 1.55 1.00 .70

AOD Transmissions

AOD Pros:

• Now the cheapest way into an automatic overdrive for your Ford. It can be built to handle almost anything.
• Lost of choices for mounting in Mustang.
• It can be updated with AODE parts.

AOD Cons:

• TV cable setup can be an issue.
• Done wrong it will lunch the transmission. Mounting to other Ford chassis will be less easy, but many ran the FMX which is a cousin to the AOD.
• Lower numerical gearing than the stock C4 or C6. The car will be a bit more sluggish off the line.
• The thin valve body is more likely to warp.
• Weak input shaft (stock)

Torque Limit: 450hp (average) Can be built to handle 600Plus HP.

Parasitic Draw: 45 hp estimate. We’ve seen numbers as high as 55-60 (same as the Ford C6) (C4 is our base at 28 hp).

Gearing:

1st: 2.40:1
2nd 1.47:1
3rd: 1.00:1
OD .67:1

AODE Transmissions

AODE Pros:

• Stronger than the original AOD larger overdrive band and overdrive servo.
• Stronger input shaft.
• Electronic controls for easier setup.
• Lock-up converter: You can unlock the converter for acceleration or unlock it for efficiency.

AODE Cons:

• Costs are higher due to electronic controls and better components.
• Lower numeric ratios than your original C4/C6 equals less acceleration if a stock axle is maintained.

Torque Limit: 450hp (average) Can be built to handle 600 plus HP.

Parasitic Draw: 45 hp estimate. We’ve seen numbers as high as 55-60 (same as the Ford C6) (C4 is our base at 28 hp).

Gearing:

1st: 2.40:1
2nd 1.47:1
3rd: 1.00:1
OD .67:1

4R70W/AOD-EW Transmissions

4R70W/AOD-EW Pros:

• Top of the line Overdrive Transmission.
• Ratios more resemble those from the C6 and C4 allowing you to run your stock ration with no loss of acceleration on takeoff.
• Lots of choices for controlling the transmission via aftermarket shift controllers like the ones from US shift.

4R70W/AOD-EW Cons:

• Costs are higher due to electronic controls and better components.

Torque Limit: 506 hp (average) Can be built to handle more.

Parasitic Draw: 45 hp estimate. We’ve seen numbers as high as 55-60 (same as the Ford C6)

Gearing:

1st: 2.48:1
2nd 1.55:1
3rd: 1.00:1
OD .70:1