AOD in a 1955 Thunderbird

['55 'Bird]

New here.
I have a 1955 Thunderbird with a 292 Engine (built to 301) and would like to install an AOD Transmission. I have found a kit by Transmission Adapters and am curious if others have used this kit. I am also interested in the transmission that was used (2004R or 700R4) knowing this is a kit for a Chevy Transmission I am curious if others have been used.
thanks in advance!
Steve

[JimCunn]

Have you considered the Ford 4R70W transmission?

[paul2748]

Most conversions I have seen use the Ford AOD

['55 'Bird]

Thanks guys I'll try to find the adapter, unless one of you can post a link.

[paul2748]

Bendtsen's is one supplier. There may be others. Do some research on this conversion - certain years transmission are better than others.

['55 'Bird]

Thanks I found that website. I am concerned about having to modify the firewall or tunnel, not sure that I want to do any mods on this nice 'bird

[55blacktie]

The frame has to be notched as well when doing an AOD conversion.

[Joe Johnston]

About 2 months ago, I saw a 57 in a local shop. The owner was having an AOD installed and also a 4.11:1 rear end. He was wanting more acceleration off the line from stop lights. Not concerned about mileage but only about having fun. Ran into him last week and he loves it!! Highway engine rpm has changed very little at 70 or 80 but the acceleration from 0 to 40 has been so much fun for him. Truly woke up his old bird!

[paul2748]

A friend of mine put an AOD in his 56 and as far as I know, just had to do little grinding on the frame. No tunnel mods

[JimCunn]

Gear ratio comparison
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

[55blacktie]

AODE has a 2.84 first gear. However, the "E" is for electronic. Unlike the AOD, the AODE requires a computer.

[JimCunn]

What is the AODE 2nd?

[55blacktie]

AODE

1st: 2.84
2nd: 1.55
3rd: 1.00
OD: 0.70
R: 2.32

['55 'Bird]

thanks for the info

[JimCunn]

AOD frame notch