I'm putting a late model 5.0 Mustang engine and ****** in my 31 Coupe. I believe the ****** is a 94'-98' C4/C5. It has a VSS (speed Sensor) like the Ford rangers and Mustangs had, but someone removed the speedo cable. I have a new mechanical speedo from Speedway. Anyone know what I need to do? It's still a cable driven set up, just with electonic connection (for cruise I ***ume). I'm wondering if I can just buy a new cable and delete the electronic stuff. I have done this conversion before on a 700R4 with a kit, and removed the tail housing and swapped the gear, but I cannot find a anyone that sells a kit for this Ford transmission. Thanks!
Are you sure it's a C4/5? The C4 was discontinued in '81, and the C5 was only '82-86. They were replaced by the AOD. But I don't think it matters. The Ford speed sensors I've seen use the same design as the mechanical speedos, simply install a conventional speedo cable and you should be good to go. No mods to the trans are needed, but you do need to get the right driven gear as there's two types depending on which side of the trans the cable connects on. Seeing how you have the sensor, just match the new gear to yours. The gears look the same but are pitched differently depending on side. The tooth count on the driven gear determines speedo accuracy. It should also be noted that if it is a C4 trans that you have, you need an aftermarket conversion flexplate to correct the balance factor difference between the early and late 302.
I talked to my transmission shop when I got it, and he said it was a very late model C4, prolly out of a pickup, but many people don't even know ford made a C5. He said it's nothing more than a C4 with automatic lockup at highway speeds. The sensor is on the drivers side.
I would still make sure you have the right flexplate. All SBFs (including 351Ws) are externally balanced, up to '81 they used a 28 oz imbalance, in '82 the 302 only changed to 50 oz; the 351W stayed at 28. Using the wrong balance flexplate will result in severe vibration. If you have a C5 chances are pretty good it's the correct 50 oz balance unless it was originally used behind a 351. There should be a part number stamped on the flexplate that will allow you to identify it.
All of that is good Steve, the engine and ****** came out of a running and driving car. The sensor I have is damaged, so I'm looking at either buying a new sensor and matching cable, or just a conventional cable set up.
I could give a clearer answer if the sensor was out and I could see a pic of it. Is it held in with a clamp, or does it screw in? The screw-in style isn't common, so finding a cable that will match your speedo will be tough. The clamp style will accept a 'standard' Ford speedo cable. Worst case, swap to a different tailshaft housing to get the clamp style.
I sourced a new speedo cable for a 67-68 Mustang, got the correct tooth driven gear for my application. Fit perfect. I appreciate the help guys. Thanks again.
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