5spd to Auto

I saw that someone asked this question before, but there wasn't really an answer.

Is it possible to hook an auto trans up to a 86 TC engine that had a 5 spd? Does the engine controller on the 86 TC care? Are there any sensors on the 5 spd? Did the 4 speed automatic overdrive transmission have any electronic controls before the 1990 change? (I'm not worried about the strength of the tranny as the engine/transmission are going to be swapped into a car that is about 1000 lbs lighter. Don't worry, not TCs will be harmed in this swap as the car is already wrecked.)

Sorry if these questions are answered elswhere. I read the FAQ and searched the archive, but I couldn't seem to find the answers to these questions.

The A4LD used in the 87-88 TC has both the 3-4 shift and the converter lockup controlled by the EEC. The EEC uses info from the VSS and TPS to determine shift timing and lockup. If you want to keep these functions, you will need a EEC out of an 87 or 88 A4LD TC. Only other electrical connections to the tranny are the NDS (neutral drive switch, used so it only cranks in P and N), and the backup light switch. Some minor rewiring would take care of this problem.

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Jeff Korn

88 Turbo Coupe: Intake and exhaust mods, T3 turbo at 20 psi, forced air intercooler, water injection, bypass valve, Ranger roller cam, subframes, etc., etc.. // 86 Tbird 5.0 (original owner): intake, exhaust, valvetrain mods, 100 HP nitrous, ignition, gears, suspension, etc., etc.... // 91 Escort: Bone stock winter car // 00 Windstar (wifes vehicle)

Originally posted by Jeff K:
The A4LD used in the 87-88 TC has both the 3-4 shift and the converter lockup controlled by the EEC. The EEC uses info from the VSS and TPS to determine shift timing and lockup. If you want to keep these functions, you will need a EEC out of an 87 or 88 A4LD TC. Only other electrical connections to the tranny are the NDS (neutral drive switch, used so it only cranks in P and N), and the backup light switch. Some minor rewiring would take care of this problem.

Thanks for the information. What if I used a 3spd auto trans from a 86 and older vehicle? Would it work with an 86 engine that was a manual? How about a 87-88 that was a manual? (I may have found a wrecked one.)

Thanks again.