Cummins® to Ford® 7.3 / 6.9 Diesel Automatic and Manual Transmissions
Posted by Diesel Conversion Specialists® on Oct 15th 2020
There is a split between the 6.9L and 7.3L diesel engines in the late 1980's. Using model years as a guide is usually a good way to judge which transmission you have however model year can not always be relied upon.
6.9L Diesel Transmissions
T-19 4speed Manual: We do not offer any parts or support for using this transmission in a conversion.
C-6 Automatic: We do not offer any parts or support for using this transmission in a conversion.
7.3L IDI and Power Stroke Diesel Transmissions
ZF5 5 speed Manual: The ZF5 was introduced in 1987. It is rated for 420 ft.lb of torque. 95 and newer transmissions are rated for 470 ft/lbs of torque. This is one of the most popular and sought after transmissions for conversions in the '80-90's model Ford® conversion. In addition to being better equipped to handle the power of the Cummins® engine than it's predecessor, this transmission also has an overdrive gear allowing faster top speeds and lower cruising RPM's to help maximize fuel economy.
E4OD 4 speed Automatic- The E4OD is close to it's predecessor in power ratings and specs however the E4OD has an electronically controlled overdrive unit. Some people have used early E40D’s that were behind a non-Power Stroke® engine without an aftermarket transmission controller, however, we do not recommend it. If you do, don't expect the transmission to shift in the optimum torque range of the Cummins®, since the Cummins makes it's best power and torque at a much lower rpm than the 7.3. It also is required for you to make a bracket to mount your original Ford throttle position sensor to the Cummins throttle lever. We do not currently provide such a bracket. We currently offer 2 different aftermarket control modules that work well for this conversion. Please see the conversion overview for more information.
Starter/Adapter Plate Options:
Our adapter plates require the use of a Ford 6.0 or 6.4 Diesel Starter.
Go to our catalog to order Adapter Plate Kits, or our kit builder to order DCS Conversion Kits