Dodge 47RH, 47RE Transmission Service

47RH/47RE Automatic Transmission Service Procedures

Applicable Models:

1994 - 2002 Dodge Ram 2500, Ram 3500 (and select 2003 models)

Applicable Engine(s):

5.9L Cummins 6BT (12v), 5.9L Cummins ISB (24v)

Applicable Transmission(s):

Chrysler 47RH, Chrysler 47RE four speed automatics

Service Intervals:

24,000 miles/24 months for 1994 - 1998 models (12v Cummins)
30,000 miles/24 months for 1998.5 - 2002 models (24v Cummins)

47RH, 47RE Transmission Service Parts List

Part Description

Part Number(s)

Remarks/Notes

Transmission filter, 1994 - 1997 models

MOPAR 3515996
WIX 58707

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Transmission filters, 1998 - 2002 models

MOPAR 52118789
WIX 58613

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Transmission pan gasket

Mahle W39003TC

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Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)

MOPAR ATF+4

[1]

[1] Factory spec is MOPAR ATF+4. Transmissions have a drain/refill capacity of approximately 4 quarts and a total capacity of 14.5 - 16.5 quarts. The amount of ATF required during a service will vary.

How to Service the 47RH and 47RE Automatic Transmission

The Chrysler 47RH and later 47RE automatic transmissions are found in 1994 to 2002 (and select 2003) model year Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 models equipped with the 5.9L Cummins turbodiesel. The factory automatic transmission service interval for trucks equipped with the 12v Cummins is 24,000 miles/24 months and 30,000 miles/24 months for later trucks equipped with the 24v Cummins (ISB). Transmission service includes replacing the transmission filter, adjusting the transmission bands, and refilling the transmission with new ATF.

The topic of power flushing versus draining and refilling a transmission has long been debated. We don't advise power flushing for various reasons, including:

  1. It requires specialized equipment that most truck owners don't have access to.
  2. It risks disloding and introducing into suspension particles and buildup on high mileage transmissions.
  3. It's a relatively expensive operation requiring a skilled technician to be performed properly.

There are industry experts on both sides of the argument, but there's little evidence to suggest that dropping the pan, replacing the filter, and refilling the transmission with new fluid is a not beneficial towards prolonging transmission life.

The 47RH, 47RE, and later 48RE automatic transmission found in Dodge Cummins applications also require periodic band adjustments. For more information, see: 47RH/47RE/48RE transmission band adjustment procedures.

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Transmission pan

• Place a suitable oil drain container below the transmission.

• Remove all but (2) of the transmission pan bolts using a 13 mm socket; leave (2) bolts near the center of the pan on opposing sides.

• While holding the transmission pan firmly against the transmission, loosen the remaining transmission pan bolts 1/2 to 3/4 out. Carefully lower one corner of the transmission pan so the fluid can drain.

Transmission pan removed

• Remove the transmission pan entirely and drain the remaining fluid into the oil drain container. Discard the transmission oil pan gasket; the gasket is NOT reusable.

Removing transmission filter

• Locate the transmission filter. Remove the (3) bolts securing the filter to the valvebody using a T25 Torx driver, then remove and discard the transmission filter. Note that a significant amount of fluid will drain once the filter is removed.

Transmission pan cleaned

• Thoroughly clean the transmission oil pan, including the inspection magnet. Ensure that all debris, dirty fluid, gasket material, clutch material, and other contaminants are removed. The transmission pan gasket mounting surface must be clean and smooth to ensure a leak-free fit.

New transmission filter installed

• Install the new transmission filter in reverse order. Torque the Torx bolts to 35 in-lbs (inch pounds).

New transmission pan gasket installed

• Align the transmission pan gasket on the transmission oil pan, then position under the transmission and install the bolts hand tight.

Reinstalling transmission fluid pan

• Snug all transmission pan bolts down then torque to 156 in-lbs (inch pounds) in a criss-cross, star, or alternating sequence. Torque all bolts a second time clockwise or counter-clockwise around the pan to ensure none were missed.

Filling transmission with new ATF

• Fill the transmission with new ATF through the dipstick tube. The service refill capacity on the 47RE and 47RH transmissions is approximately 4 quarts, but this is only an estimate. Reinsert and check the fluid level frequently as you add fluid to prevent overfilling. When the dipstick indicates that the fluid level is within the normal range, start the engine and check the fluid level at idle; adjust accordingly.

• Cycle the shifter through all ranges (P, R, N, D, etc) and recheck the fluid level; add fluid as necessary. Finally, take the vehicle for a short drive and add fluid as necessary.