My dad was a transmission design engineer for Ford, working on leading designs. He holds 15 patents, most of them related to automatic transmissions.

His most notable patent was the split torque design for 2nd gear in early Escort transmissions. The torque converter would lock up in 2nd gear, giving a 2 mpg increase in EPA city driving cycle.

He also came up with an infinitely variable transmission back in the 60's using sliding fluid pumps. Prototype testing showed this design was too noisy and the idea was shelved.

Another idea of his was to use coarse plastic thread woven into material as an alternative to sweaty vinyl. It had the benefit of breathability without loss of durablity. It was used in Ford seating in the late 60's/early 70's.

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95 E320 Cabriolet, 169K