Can anyone tell me if there is supposed to be a 3-4 accumulator in an '89 AOD? I have heard that Ford dropped the 3-4 accumulator but I have an AOD that has nothing plugging the accumulator hole. There is no cover, piston, spring or even a lock ring in the hole for the 3-4 accumulator. I haven't got a car - just the tranny. I need to know if I need to get a new accumulator.
In 1989 the 3-4 Accumulator was dropped and the 3-4 shift was softened by other means. So contrary to some peoples belief removing the 3-4 Accumulator does not make the shift firmer. About the 3-4 Accumulator and spring, is it possible someone swapped in a later valve body---which was very common, if so then the 3-4 accumulator and spring isn't needed. Look at the casting number on your Valvebody. If it has the numbers E9**-7A100-A or something of that nature---but starts with "E9" then you won't need the accu piston and spring. If it is earlier---like E4 or E6, then you will. You really just need the piston and the cover, I like the spring, but it isn't necessary. For some tech on the AOD you should check out this site these guys have alot of great information on the AOD on how to build them up. They know as much about the AOD as some of us do the C4. http://www.clickclickracing.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=12
Also PaulS if you want some info on their performance rebuild of the AOD check this out they give out alot of good information http://www.clickclickracing.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2444
I have most of the info in that thread with the exception of the referrals to the Sonnax parts. I actually have accumulated about 75 pages of info but none of it talked about the missing 3-4 accumulator. I have since seen it in no less than four service bulletins. I guess no matter how much you try to prepare, there is always something that surprises you. I got the tranny built and now I wait for about a month until it gets put in and run. I think it will be just what he wants.... Time will tell.
