The 68RFE transmission is a six-speed automatic transmission that was designed and built by the Chrysler Corporation. It was first introduced in 2007 and has been used in a variety of Dodge Ram trucks with Cummins diesel engines. The “68” in the name refers to the torque capacity of the transmission, which is 680 lb-ft, and the “RFE” stands for Rear-wheel drive Fully Electronic control. This transmission was designed to handle the high torque output of the Cummins diesel engine while providing smooth and efficient shifting for heavy-duty applications.
The 68RFE transmission features a sophisticated design with multiple clutch packs, a hydraulic control system, and electronic solenoids for precise shifting. It also includes a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve fuel efficiency and reduce heat buildup during towing or heavy hauling. The transmission is controlled by a dedicated Transmission Control Module (TCM) that monitors various sensors and inputs to determine the optimal shift points and torque converter lock-up strategy. Overall, the 68RFE transmission is known for its durability and smooth operation, making it a popular choice for truck owners who require reliable performance for towing, hauling, and off-road driving.
The 68RFE transmission is a complex piece of engineering that requires regular maintenance and care to ensure long-term reliability. Understanding its design and operation is essential for diagnosing issues, performing upgrades, and optimizing performance. With its robust construction and advanced control systems, the 68RFE transmission has become a staple in the heavy-duty truck market, providing drivers with the confidence to tackle tough jobs with ease.
Key Takeaways
- The 68RFE transmission is a popular automatic transmission found in Dodge Ram trucks, known for its durability and towing capabilities.
- Common issues with the 68RFE transmission include overheating, torque converter problems, and solenoid issues.
- Regular fluid and filter changes, as well as proper towing practices, can help extend the life of the 68RFE transmission.
- Upgrades such as aftermarket transmission coolers and performance torque converters can improve the 68RFE transmission’s reliability and towing capacity.
- Performance tuning options for the 68RFE transmission include shift kits, tuning software, and upgraded valve bodies to improve shift quality and overall performance.
Common Issues and Problems with the 68RFE Transmission
Despite its reputation for durability, the 68RFE transmission is not without its share of common issues and problems. One of the most prevalent issues is overheating, especially when towing heavy loads or driving in hot climates. The increased heat can lead to premature wear of internal components, fluid breakdown, and ultimately transmission failure if not addressed promptly. Another common problem is clutch slippage, which can result from worn clutch packs, inadequate fluid pressure, or a faulty solenoid. This can cause erratic shifting, loss of power, and potential damage to other transmission components.
Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the torque converter lock-up clutch, which can cause shuddering or vibration during highway cruising. This can be attributed to worn seals, contaminated fluid, or a malfunctioning solenoid. Furthermore, electronic control issues such as TCM failure or sensor malfunctions can lead to erratic shifting behavior, harsh engagement, or even limp mode operation. These issues can be frustrating for owners and may require professional diagnosis and repair to resolve.
It’s important for 68RFE transmission owners to be aware of these common issues and to address them proactively to prevent more significant problems down the road. Regular fluid and filter changes, monitoring fluid levels and temperatures, and addressing any abnormal symptoms promptly can help mitigate these issues and keep the transmission operating smoothly for years to come.
Maintenance and Care Tips for the 68RFE Transmission
Proper maintenance and care are crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of the 68RFE transmission. Regular fluid and filter changes are essential to remove contaminants, prevent sludge buildup, and maintain proper hydraulic pressure for smooth shifting. It’s recommended to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for fluid change intervals, but many owners opt for more frequent changes, especially if they frequently tow heavy loads or drive in extreme conditions.
Monitoring fluid levels and temperatures is also important, as overheating can lead to premature wear and damage. Installing an aftermarket transmission cooler can help reduce operating temperatures and prolong the life of the transmission. Additionally, using high-quality synthetic transmission fluid can provide better lubrication and heat resistance compared to conventional fluids.
Inspecting and maintaining the transmission’s external components such as the shift linkage, cooler lines, and electrical connections is also important to prevent leaks, malfunctions, or poor shifting performance. Keeping an eye on the condition of the transmission mounts and crossmember can help prevent excessive vibration or movement that could lead to damage or misalignment.
Lastly, driving habits can also impact the longevity of the 68RFE transmission. Avoiding aggressive driving, excessive towing loads, and prolonged idling can help reduce wear and stress on internal components. Properly warming up the transmission before heavy use and allowing it to cool down after towing or hauling can also help maintain optimal performance.
By following these maintenance and care tips, 68RFE transmission owners can ensure that their transmissions remain reliable and perform at their best for years to come.
Upgrades and Modifications for the 68RFE Transmission
| Upgrade/Modification | Description |
|---|---|
| Billet Input Shaft | A stronger input shaft to handle increased torque |
| Shift Kit | Improves shift timing and firmness |
| Deep Transmission Pan | Increases fluid capacity and cooling |
| Performance Torque Converter | Improved torque multiplication and durability |
| Transmission Cooler | Enhances cooling capacity for heavy-duty use |
For owners looking to enhance the performance and durability of their 68RFE transmission, there are several upgrades and modifications available. One popular upgrade is installing an aftermarket torque converter with a higher stall speed and improved lock-up clutch design. This can provide better low-end torque delivery, reduced slippage, and improved towing performance. Upgraded clutch packs with higher friction material content can also improve holding capacity and reduce slippage under heavy loads.
Another common modification is installing an aftermarket valve body with improved hydraulic circuits, larger solenoids, and revised shift calibrations. This can provide quicker and firmer shifts, reduced clutch slippage, and improved overall performance. Some valve bodies also include additional cooling passages to help reduce operating temperatures.
Upgrading the transmission cooler with a larger capacity unit or adding an auxiliary cooler can help reduce operating temperatures and improve fluid cooling efficiency. This is especially beneficial for owners who frequently tow heavy loads or drive in hot climates.
For those looking to increase power output from their Cummins diesel engine, upgrading the TCM with custom tuning software can optimize shift points, torque converter lock-up strategy, and line pressure control for improved performance. This can also help reduce clutch slippage and improve overall drivability.
Overall, these upgrades and modifications can help enhance the reliability, performance, and longevity of the 68RFE transmission for owners who demand more from their trucks.
Performance Tuning for the 68RFE Transmission
Performance tuning for the 68RFE transmission involves optimizing the Transmission Control Module (TCM) with custom software to improve shift points, line pressure control, torque converter lock-up strategy, and overall drivability. This can be done using aftermarket tuning devices that connect to the OBD-II port or by sending the TCM to a professional tuner for custom calibration.
By adjusting shift points and line pressure control, performance tuning can provide quicker and firmer shifts for improved acceleration and towing performance. It can also optimize torque converter lock-up strategy to reduce slippage and improve fuel efficiency during highway cruising.
Custom tuning software can also adjust shift firmness based on throttle input, vehicle speed, engine load, and other parameters to provide a more responsive driving experience. This can be especially beneficial for owners who have modified their engines for increased power output.
Additionally, performance tuning can optimize TCM parameters for specific driving conditions such as towing heavy loads or driving off-road. This can help reduce clutch slippage, improve heat management, and enhance overall drivability in demanding situations.
It’s important to note that performance tuning should be done by experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of the 68RFE transmission’s control systems to avoid potential damage or drivability issues. When done correctly, performance tuning can significantly enhance the driving experience and overall performance of the 68RFE transmission.
Rebuilding and Repairing the 68RFE Transmission
When faced with significant issues or failures with the 68RFE transmission, rebuilding or repairing may be necessary to restore its functionality. Rebuilding involves disassembling the transmission, inspecting all internal components for wear or damage, replacing worn parts with new or upgraded components, and reassembling the transmission to factory specifications.
Common components that may need replacement during a rebuild include clutch packs, seals, gaskets, bearings, solenoids, valve body components, and the torque converter. Upgrading these components with higher quality materials or improved designs can enhance durability and performance.
Repairing the 68RFE transmission may involve addressing specific issues such as clutch slippage, overheating, electronic control malfunctions, or fluid leaks. This may require replacing individual components or performing adjustments to resolve the problem.
It’s important to have rebuilding or repairing work done by experienced professionals who are familiar with the intricacies of the 68RFE transmission’s design and operation. This ensures that the work is done correctly and that the transmission will perform reliably once reinstalled in the vehicle.
Regular maintenance and care as well as addressing issues promptly can help prevent major failures that require rebuilding or repairing. However, when these situations arise, having a trusted professional perform the work is essential for ensuring long-term reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 68RFE Transmission
1. What type of fluid should I use in my 68RFE transmission?
– It’s recommended to use high-quality synthetic transmission fluid that meets the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific vehicle. This type of fluid provides better lubrication and heat resistance compared to conventional fluids.
2. How often should I change the fluid in my 68RFE transmission?
– The manufacturer’s guidelines typically recommend changing the fluid every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, many owners opt for more frequent changes if they frequently tow heavy loads or drive in extreme conditions.
3. Can I install an aftermarket transmission cooler on my 68RFE transmission?
– Yes, installing an aftermarket transmission cooler can help reduce operating temperatures and improve fluid cooling efficiency, especially for owners who frequently tow heavy loads or drive in hot climates.
4. What are some common signs of 68RFE transmission problems?
– Common signs of issues include overheating, clutch slippage, erratic shifting behavior, harsh engagement, shuddering during highway cruising, electronic control malfunctions such as TCM failure or sensor malfunctions.
5. Can I perform performance tuning on my 68RFE transmission myself?
– While some aftermarket tuning devices allow owners to perform basic performance tuning themselves through plug-and-play devices connected to the OBD-II port, custom tuning software should be done by experienced professionals who understand the intricacies of the 68RFE transmission’s control systems.
In conclusion, understanding the design and operation of the 68RFE transmission is essential for maintaining its reliability and performance over time. By addressing common issues proactively through regular maintenance and care as well as considering upgrades or modifications when necessary, owners can ensure that their transmissions continue to perform at their best for years to come. When faced with significant issues or failures, having rebuilding or repairing work done by experienced professionals is crucial for restoring functionality. By following these guidelines and being aware of common questions about the 68RFE transmission, owners can confidently maintain their transmissions for long-term reliability and performance.
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If you’re interested in learning more about the 68rfe transmission, be sure to check out the article “The Ultimate Guide to 68rfe Transmission Upgrades” on Xenia Gazi’s website. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about upgrading and maintaining your 68rfe transmission for optimal performance. Whether you’re a truck enthusiast or a professional mechanic, this article provides valuable insights and tips for getting the most out of your transmission. Learn more here.
FAQs
What is a 68RFE transmission?
The 68RFE transmission is a six-speed automatic transmission designed and manufactured by the Chrysler Corporation. It is commonly used in heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles.
What vehicles use the 68RFE transmission?
The 68RFE transmission is primarily used in Dodge Ram trucks with Cummins diesel engines. It is commonly found in the 2500 and 3500 series trucks.
What are the common issues with the 68RFE transmission?
Common issues with the 68RFE transmission include overheating, torque converter problems, and clutch and solenoid issues. These can lead to rough shifting, slipping, and other performance issues.
How can I maintain my 68RFE transmission?
Regular maintenance, including fluid and filter changes, is essential for the longevity of the 68RFE transmission. Additionally, avoiding heavy towing and hauling beyond the recommended limits can help prevent premature wear and damage.
Can the 68RFE transmission be rebuilt or repaired?
Yes, the 68RFE transmission can be rebuilt or repaired by qualified transmission specialists. This may involve replacing worn or damaged components, such as clutches, solenoids, and seals. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help extend the lifespan of the transmission.
