My truck is an '87 F-150 with a low-geared 4-speed transmission. The truck only has 125K kms (75K mi), so as far as I know, the drive train is original. My goal is to replace the low-geared manual transmission with something more fuel-friendly for better highway mileage, and automatic because, unfortunately, driving a manual is just not intuitive for my wife. From a safety standpoint, she's safer driving an auto.

I'm requesting some experienced advice from forum members to help me pick an age-appropriate, compatible automatic transmission, which will achieve my stated goal. I can turn a wrench, but I don't know anything about transmissions and their interface to an engine. After a little reading on wikipedia, I think my current transmission is 4-Speed Borg-Warner T19 (1987).

Questions:
I'm wondering if the E40D would be compatible? (I did read it was introduced after '87)
Would an electronic controlled transmission work in my truck, or would it require an external electronic module / computer to function?

As you can see, I really don't know anything about the replacement situation.

General Info:Any advice and insight would be greatly appreciate. Please let me know if you need anything other information.

TIA,
Walter.

EDIT:
After using this website's VIN Decoder tool, the result shows 5.0/302 ... so, I guess it's a 5.0 Windsor, not a 5.8. There doesn't appear to be any other transmission options, so I'll assume the above-stated transmission is still accurate.

EDIT:
Here is what I think is an incomplete list of transmissions made for that year of truck:
AT, 4x2, C6
AT, 4x2, AOD transmission, 8-302 (5.0L), 10-1/4" extension housing
AT, 4x2, AOD transmission, 8-302 (5.0L), 11-1/4" extension housing
AT, 4x2, AOD transmission, 6-300 (4.9L)
AT, 4x4, AOD transmission
MT, (4 speed), Ford (Overdrive) manufactured, 4x2
MT, (4 speed), Ford (Overdrive) manufactured, 4x4
MT, (4 speed), New Process 435, 4x2, 12-1/4" extension
MT, (4 speed), New Process 435, 4x2, 4-1/4" extension
MT, (4 speed), New Process 435, 4x4
MT, (4 speed), Warner T-18, 4x2, 12" extension
MT, (4 speed), Warner T-18, 4x2, 4" extension
MT, (4 speed), Warner T-18, 4x4
AT, 4x4, C6, 8-351 (5.8L)
AT, 4x4, C6, 6-300 (4.9L)
AT, 4x4, C6, 8-302 (5.0L)

Obviously, I'm ignoring the 4x4 and manual options, which leaves the top 4 in the list as potential options. So, I'm then still wondering if the E40D, or the newer model, the 4R100, would be compatible and be able to bolt straight onto the existing 5.0 engine as an auto replacement for existing manual transmission.

 

The manual transmission you have will get you better mileage than any automatic.4th gear should be over drive. I would not even open a can of worms by trying to convert your 87.It is too old with old technology. You will spend far more to convert than you will pay in the little extra gas consumed and never recoup your expenses for that project.. You never mentioned what rear end gear set you have.If you have a rear end with a ratio geared more for towing, you will never get very good mileage no matter what you do.You would be better off selling the truck and getting something that both of you can drive.What is your tach showing at 55 mph on the freeway? My 87 with 4.9 and 4 spd, 3.55 rear end gets about 14 mpg in the city and about 17 hwy. The engine is spinning at 2000 rpm when traveling at 60 on the freeway..

 

Hi Raski, thank you for taking the time to provide your input, it is appreciated, but I have no concerns as to the related cost to change transmissions, money is not a factor in the decision. The aim of better fuel mileage is based upon driving further distances between fuel stops, not upon saving a few cents per mile.

As for the age, I've had this truck for 20 years and I keep it in mint condition, so the age of the vehicle is not a factor as I am invested heavily with maintaining and operating the vehicle, anyways.

Regarding the technology, that is part of my question, but is not my main concern. I'm looking for information as to whether the AOD, E40D, or 4R100 would be compatible; would they bolt straight on, or not? Of course, if the AOD, I'd still have to figure out the difference between the extensions, apart from the 1" length difference, but given that transmission was available the same year, I have to assume it would be compatible. But, that's why I'm asking, to learn a little more about possibilities. If a selected transmission requires additional technology (computer chip) to be included, that is a separate issue apart from my stated understanding goal of model compatibility.

As I mention, I've had this truck for 20 years, so I'm not going to simply sell it. But, I do need to switch it to an auto so it's a safe option for both my wife and myself.

As for the RPM range on the highway, it's in the 2,200 RPM range at 60, which is normal for the 3.55 diff and for the vehicle. Apparently, what I've found out from other sites is the range of 1,800 to 2,800 is the normal RPM range on the highway, depending on load, incline, and resistance.

Though I'm also looking at switching the stock 3.55:1 differential to something lower, perhaps a 2.73 or 3.08, depending on what I can find locally, for now I'm only looking for transmission information.

Thanks, again.
Walter.

 

I would investigate the installation of the AOD transmission. My reason, no computer or wiring harness involved..It can handle the job. It was used on 1980-1993 F150's.

 

That was my thought, too.

Thank you for your assistance,
Walter.