Transgo/ B&M Shift Kit?

sircrashalot · 09-29-2005

Trying to firm up shifts with the AOD in my 91 GT. Next step after that will be ring & pinion.I have read some good things about the $189 Transgo kit but it looks a bit tricky to install? I picked up a catalog that had a kit from B&M for $29.99. Does anybody have any experience with either of these, or know what the major differences between the two kits / complexity of installing each of them would be?
I am hoping to firm up shifts, and hopefully change shift points a bit- anybody out there with a stock AOD knows what I mean when I say that around town the motor is constantly being kept below the power band and you really have to stomp it to get a downshift out of the AOD...and then its kinda late and mushy! I just find it hard to believe that a $30 kit could compare to a $189 kit, but I cant find anything online in the way of a review of the B&M kit. ANy input from anyone who has experience with either or both of these would be greatly appreciated.

macx · 10-01-2005

I've read mostly good, but a few negative, comments on the Transgo kit.
One thing to watch there is to NOT put blocker rings in the accumulator.

I've read just about all negative comments on the B&M.

You might want to check into the Baumann kit
www.becontrols.com
About $50 and recognized as one of the best.

Just FYI here's some AOD info

http://www.lincolnsonline.com/article111.html

Because of the way the AOD is designed, it's hard to
get really good control of shift points, although it can
be improved.

I've installed 2 Baumann kits and found them relatively easy.
Just important to pay strict attention to details, and be
sure to properly torque the vb bolts when you reinstall.
Takes a small inch-pound torque wrench.

sircrashalot · 10-01-2005

THanks for the info. I just found another option...CJ Pony Parts catalog has a new addition- a Performance Automatic Racing replacement valve body. You just remove yours and plunk this one in and it's already re-worked. The ad claims it is street/strip for everyday driving, will hold 1st & 2nd, and provide precise, firm tire chirping shifts. I just did some digging and it seems that this is also carried by Summit Racing. ANybody have any experience with this option?

ALso, my car and as far as I know my tranny both have 112,000 miles. DO you think my $ would be better spent on a rebuild of the trans? In other words if I firm up the shifts and go to a 3.73 ring & pinion am I gonna explode the AOD?

1320FeetO'Fun · 10-01-2005

I've read many good things about Lentech and their shift kits, and manual valve bodies.

www.lentechautomatics.com

sircrashalot · 10-03-2005

I checked out Lentech. I like what they have to say seems they know the aod in and out. I spoke to a local trans shop today the guy seems pretty honest and knowledgeable so I am gonna print/bring everything for transgo and lentech to him and go with whatever he is more confident with. Thanks to all for the replies!