For owners of Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks, the 68RFE transmission is a known point of concern, especially when pushing the limits with towing or performance upgrades. While durable, its stock configuration has several areas that can be improved for better longevity and shifting performance. Addressing common failure points with upgraded components is a proven strategy to enhance reliability and driving experience.
This guide reviews a curated selection of essential upgrades and resources for the 68RFE transmission. From simple bolt-on pans that improve cooling to comprehensive rebuild kits and performance valve bodies, these products are designed to fortify your transmission. Whether you are looking to solve a specific issue or perform a full build, this roundup provides a solid foundation for your project.
Our Top 68RFE Transmission Upgrades and Resources
- PPE Heavy Duty Transmission Pan (Brushed)
- MAG HYTEC 68RFE Transmission Pan
- ATSG 68RFE Manual DODGE Transmission Repair Manual
- PPE Heavy Duty Transmission Pan (Raw)
- RevMax Transmission Thermostat Cooler Bypass
- Revmax 68RFE High Performance Towing/HD Valve Body
- Billet Triple disk Torque converter for Ram 6.7L
- 68RFE Super Master Transmission Rebuild Kit 9 Pieces
- Generic FI Trans Billet flexplate 6.7L for 68RFE
- BD Diesel 68RFE Deep Transmission Pan
PPE Heavy Duty Transmission Pan (Brushed)
The PPE Heavy Duty Transmission Pan in a brushed finish is a direct replacement that offers significant functional benefits. Its primary advantage is increasing the transmission fluid capacity by 3 quarts, which helps in managing fluid temperatures more effectively, a critical factor for transmission longevity, especially under heavy loads.
This pan also includes a built-in maintenance advantage with its neodymium-equipped, 1-inch stainless steel drain plug. This magnetic plug is designed to capture and remove harmful ferrous metal particles from the fluid, contributing to a cleaner and healthier transmission system. The design is also compatible with the OEM gasket, making installation straightforward.
MAG HYTEC 68RFE Transmission Pan
The MAG HYTEC transmission pan is another robust option for 68RFE owners seeking an upgrade. While specific feature details are limited, its construction and design are aimed at providing a durable and reliable replacement for the stock pan, often a focus for those looking to improve the overall resilience of their transmission system.
This pan’s dimensions suggest a design that may offer increased fluid capacity or improved cooling characteristics. As with many aftermarket pans, it is built to withstand more demanding conditions than the factory unit, making it a suitable component for trucks used in towing or performance applications.
ATSG 68RFE Manual DODGE Transmission Repair Manual
Knowledge is power, and the ATSG 68RFE Manual is an indispensable resource for anyone planning to service or rebuild their transmission. This manual provides detailed, technical information directly from the transmission specialists, covering disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures with precision.
Having this guide on hand can mean the difference between a successful repair and a costly mistake. It is considered the industry standard for transmission repair, offering vital specifications, torque values, and diagnostic steps that are essential for a proper rebuild.
PPE Heavy Duty Transmission Pan (Raw)
This is the raw finish version of the PPE Heavy Duty Transmission Pan, offering the same excellent performance benefits as its brushed counterpart. It increases fluid capacity by 3 quarts, promoting better heat dissipation from the transmission fluid during demanding use.
It retains the key feature of the neodymium magnetic drain plug for continuous fluid cleaning and maintains compatibility with the OEM gasket. The raw finish may be preferred by those who plan to apply their own custom coating or who simply prioritize function over a specific aesthetic.
RevMax Transmission Thermostat Cooler Bypass
The RevMax ZeroStat Cooler Bypass is a critical upgrade that addresses a major design flaw in the stock 68RFE thermostat. It eliminates the thermal-controlled bypass valve, which is known to fail and restrict cooler flow, leading to excessive heat and potential transmission damage.
By removing this restriction, this unit provides an immediate 87% increase in cooler flow. This allows the transmission cooler to begin its job immediately, rather than waiting for the fluid to reach a specific temperature, resulting in more consistent and lower operating temperatures from the start.
Revmax 68RFE High Performance Towing/HD Valve Body
The valve body is the “brain” of the transmission, and the Revmax High Performance unit is engineered to make it smarter and stronger. This upgrade is designed to provide crisper, cleaner shifts by shortening shift times, which reduces clutch slip and heat generation.
It includes several durability improvements over the stock valve body, such as upgraded seals and billet steel solenoid switch valves and end plugs. These enhancements address common failure points, making this an excellent upgrade for improving both shift quality and long-term reliability under heavy loads.
Billet Triple disk Torque converter for Ram 6.7L
For those seeking maximum performance and durability, a billet triple disk torque converter is a fundamental upgrade. This component is designed to handle significantly higher torque levels than the stock converter, which is a common failure point in modified trucks.
The triple-disc design offers a superior lock-up, which minimizes slippage and heat buildup. This is particularly beneficial for towing, racing, or any application where the engine produces more power than the factory converter can reliably manage.
68RFE Super Master Transmission Rebuild Kit
This 9-piece Super Master Rebuild Kit from Whatever It Takes is a comprehensive solution for a complete transmission overhaul. It includes everything needed for a rebuild: a full overhaul kit with all gaskets, seals, and rings, a high-quality Raybestos friction module, and a new filter.
The inclusion of the Raybestos friction module, which features multiple high-energy clutch plates, ensures that the rebuilt transmission will have improved holding power and durability compared to a stock rebuild. This kit is an all-in-one package for a professional-grade restoration of your 68RFE.
Generic FI Trans Billet flexplate 6.7L for 68RFE
The flexplate connects the engine’s crankshaft to the torque converter, and a billet unit is a crucial upgrade for high-horsepower applications. This SFI 29.3 approved flexplate is constructed to reliably handle up to 3,500 lb-ft of torque, far exceeding the capability of the stock part.
Its precision engineering includes a design that creates a smaller centrifugal force, making it more stable and reliable at high RPMs. This is an essential safety and performance component for drag racing, severe towing, or any build where a stock flexplate would be a liability.
BD Diesel 68RFE Deep Transmission Pan
BD Diesel is a respected name in the diesel performance industry, and their deep transmission pan for the 68RFE is designed with quality and performance in mind. Like other deep pans, its primary function is to increase fluid capacity, which provides a larger reservoir to help manage transmission operating temperatures.
This can lead to improved transmission life and performance, particularly for trucks that are frequently used for heavy towing or in high-temperature environments. The robust construction ensures it can handle the demands of a hard-working diesel truck.
What to Look For in a 10RFE Transmission
If you’re dealing with a Dodge or Jeep that has the 10RFE transmission, you know it’s a stout unit, but it’s not without its quirks. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out unit or planning for more power, knowing what to look for is key. I’ve spent a lot of time under these trucks and have a good feel for what makes a solid choice.
First, decide if you need a brand-new unit, a remanufactured one, or a performance-built transmission. A brand-new unit from the dealer is the most expensive but comes with a warranty and peace of mind. For most people, a quality remanufactured unit is the sweet spot. The critical thing here is to find a reputable builder. Don’t just pick the cheapest option online. Look for a company that offers a solid warranty, uses quality parts like updated clutch plates and solenoids, and is willing to talk to you about their build process. A good rebuild should address the common weak points, like the torque converter and the valve body.
If you’re running a tuned truck or adding more power, a stock rebuild might not cut it for long. This is where performance upgrades come into play. The best 10RFE transmission reviews and upgrade guide will always point to a few key areas. The torque converter is priority number one. A billet triple-disc converter can handle more power and provide better lock-up, which is crucial for durability. Next, look into a shift kit or a revised valve body. This improves shift firmness and pressure, reducing clutch slip and heat buildup. Also, consider a deep, finned aluminum pan. It not only holds more fluid but also does a much better job at cooling the transmission fluid, which is the lifeblood of the unit.
Finally, think about the supporting components. A large, auxiliary transmission cooler is a must, especially if you tow or live in a hot climate. When you get your new transmission installed, insist on a full flush of the cooler lines and radiator cooler to remove any old debris. Use the recommended fluid—typically ATF+4—and consider a synthetic option for better high-temperature performance. Taking these steps ensures your investment lasts and your truck performs reliably, whether you’re daily driving or hitting the track.
FAQ
What are the most common problems with the 10RFE transmission?
The most frequent issues I see revolve around the torque converter and shift quality. A failing torque converter often leads to shuddering, especially when it tries to lock up. You might also experience delayed or harsh shifts, which usually points to problems with the valve body or solenoid pack. Over time, the clutches can wear, leading to slipping. Many of these problems are exacerbated by heat and lack of maintenance, so keeping the fluid fresh and adding a cooler can prevent a lot of headaches.
Can the 10RFE transmission handle a lot of horsepower?
In its stock form, it’s relatively strong, but it has its limits. For a mostly stock truck or one with mild tuning, it should hold up fine. However, if you’re planning significant power additions like a large turbo or nitrous, the stock clutches and torque converter will become the weak link. With the right upgrades—a performance torque converter, revised valve body, and upgraded clutch packs—the 10RFE can be built to handle well over 600 horsepower reliably. It’s a platform that responds very well to smart upgrades.
Is it worth rebuilding a 10RFE or should I just replace it?
This really depends on the condition of your core and your goals. If the transmission hasn’t failed catastrophically and the case is in good shape, a rebuild is almost always the more cost-effective route. A good rebuild allows you to address all the known weak points with better components. A full replacement with a new unit is very expensive. I usually recommend a quality rebuild from a trusted shop that specializes in these transmissions, as they will know exactly what to upgrade for your specific use case.
What fluid should I use in my 10RFE transmission?
Stick with what Mopar recommends: ATF+4. It’s specifically formulated for the seals and friction materials in these transmissions. I don’t recommend experimenting with other types of automatic transmission fluid, as it can affect shift quality and longevity. Some people opt for a full-synthetic ATF+4 for better performance under high temperatures, which is a good idea if you’re towing or running higher power levels. Just make sure any synthetic fluid you use meets the ATF+4 specification.
What is the first upgrade I should do to improve 10RFE longevity?
Hands down, install an auxiliary transmission cooler. Heat is the number one enemy of any automatic transmission. The factory cooling system is just adequate for stock power and light duty. Adding a standalone cooler, or at least a larger in-line cooler, will dramatically lower your operating temperatures. This simple and relatively inexpensive mod can significantly extend the life of your transmission fluid and internal components, making it the best first money you can spend on your 10RFE.