So I'm currently in the process of planning out my '68 Barracuda build and wanted a overdrive auto. I have a 400 built for it, pretty stock built for low rpm torque, and its all controlled by a Fast EZ-EFI. Most of it's use will be just normal driving and some track use. Current plan would be to use an a518 but would like a few more gears and taller overdrive, so mostly looking at either using a WA580 or ZF 8HP, barring the need for the entire ECM from the car they were meant to be used in.

tldr: Do the modern transmissions have a separate controller or are they
hooked into the main ECU.

 

The 518 would be a lot less headache than using the ZF8HP as far as electronics go. Wiring in the 518 would be simple in comparison......

 

https://transmissioncenter.net/shop/...iring-diagram/

 

Don't forget you need an adapter for your 400 BB motor for the 518 Another possibility is a gear vendors over drive unit for your existing 727 trans

 

I already realize that, and have the 518 sawp figured out. But does the zf need any signals from a factory ecm or can it work with just simple stuff like the speedo, throttle position etc that I can pull from my ecu.