88 5.0L AOD quick shifting

The tranny shifts (without slipping) but it shifts very early(quickly) and then dogs (lack of RPM).
If I select 1st and put my foot in it, it will run up(RPM's) to whenever I select D, and then shift to 2nd, 3rd like my foot is not on the pedal at all.
OD shifts at 45mph no matter where my foot is.
I was reading other posts and the MAF was suggested as well as the TPS.
Does this sound correct as in the MAF or does anyone have any other suggestions on where to look.

an 88 mustang 5.0 uses a AOD transmission, which is hydraulically controlled. the shift points and firmness have nothing to do with the MAF sensor or the TPS, or any other electronic device. they are controlled by a cable attatched to the throttle linkage. if this cable has fallen out of adjustment, the shifting will be off by a lot... eventually this condition will destroy the transmission.

your problem is either fluid sealing inside the trans or misadjustment of the TV (throttle valve) cable. I would take the car to a reliable transmission shop and have it thoroughly diagnosed. it's too complex to figure the problem out just by describing the drivability issues, the pressures need to be measured etc. should't cost that much for a good diagnosis.

I'm not sure if he has a problem or just describing the normal doggy stock AOD. :banghead:

I'm not sure if he has a problem or just describing the normal doggy stock AOD. :banghead:

i'm so glad i fried mine... gave me an excuse to get my butt in gear and switch to manual.

The tranny shifts (without slipping) but it shifts very early(quickly) and then dogs (lack of RPM).
If I select 1st and put my foot in it, it will run up(RPM's) to whenever I select D, and then shift to 2nd, 3rd like my foot is not on the pedal at all.
OD shifts at 45mph no matter where my foot is.
I was reading other posts and the MAF was suggested as well as the TPS.
Does this sound correct as in the MAF or does anyone have any other suggestions on where to look.

Could it be that the tranny linkage isnt even hooked up so it just shifts whenever it feels like?

Could it be that the tranny linkage isnt even hooked up so it just shifts whenever it feels like?


No, if the TV cable isn't hooked up you'll fry ya AOD in minutes. His tranny sound like the only problem it has is it's stock.

No, if the TV cable isn't hooked up you'll fry ya AOD in minutes. His tranny sound like the only problem it has is it's stock.

Glad i dont got one, and glad i will now replace it if i get one!

Thanks for the input guys, I already found info about the cable an dhow to adjust. It's actually a friends car I looked at and test drove, I have a 86LTD with the AOD and mine shifts correctly. So I'll check the cable on his car (even though I prefer stick also). My weekend cruiser is a 68 Mustang GT/CS restomod in progress.