The 68RFE transmission is a 6-speed automatic transmission that was introduced in 2007 by the Dodge Ram. It was designed to handle the increased torque output of the Cummins diesel engine and has since become one of the most popular transmissions for heavy-duty pickup trucks. We'll take a closer look at the 68RFE and discuss the essential components of the transmission, popular transmission upgrades, and how upgraded parts can improve your driving experience. If you want to get a built 68RFE transmission or get your own 68RFE transmission upgraded, contact Tier One or call 602-399-5484!
68RFE Overview
The 68RFE is a 6-speed automatic transmission that was designed specifically for heavy-duty pickup trucks and is widely used in Dodge Ram trucks equipped with the Cummins diesel engine. This transmission is capable of handling up to 600 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the strongest and most durable transmissions on the market. The 68RFE was introduced in 2007 and has since become one of the most popular transmissions for heavy-duty pickup trucks due to its robust design and reliable performance.
One of the key features of the 68RFE is its multiple wet clutch system. Unlike traditional dry clutch systems, the 68RFE's wet clutch system uses transmission fluid to help cool and lubricate the clutch packs, which provides improved durability and shift quality. This design also allows for better control of the transmission, which results in smoother shifting and improved overall performance.
Another key feature of the 68RFE is its electronic control system. The 68RFE is equipped with a transmission control module (TCM) that is responsible for controlling the transmission. The TCM uses sensors to monitor various parameters such as engine speed, vehicle speed, and throttle position, and adjusts the transmission's shift points and pressures accordingly. This provides precise control of the transmission and allows for improved engine performance.
In addition to its multiple wet clutch system and electronic control system, the 68RFE also features a hydraulic system that is responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid. The hydraulic system is controlled by the valve body, which is responsible for regulating the pressure and flow of transmission fluid. This system is essential for proper transmission operation and provides the necessary pressure for smooth and reliable shifting.
Overall, the 68RFE is a well-designed and reliable transmission that is capable of handling the increased torque output of diesel engines. Its multiple wet clutch system, electronic control system, and hydraulic system work together to provide a smooth and reliable driving experience. If you're in the market for a heavy-duty pickup truck, the 68RFE is a transmission that is definitely worth considering.
Essential Components of the 68RFE
The 68RFE transmission is made up of several essential components that work together to provide a smooth and reliable driving experience. These components are:
- Transmission Control Module (TCM): The TCM is responsible for controlling the transmission and is one of the key components of the 68RFE's electronic control system. The TCM uses sensors to monitor various parameters, such as engine speed, vehicle speed, and throttle position, and adjusts the transmission's shift points and pressures accordingly. This provides precise control of the transmission and allows for improved engine performance.
- Torque Converter: The torque converter is responsible for transmitting engine power to the transmission. It works by converting the engine's rotational energy into hydraulic pressure, which is then used to drive the gears and provide power to the wheels. The 68RFE's torque converter is designed to handle the increased torque output of diesel engines, making it an essential component for those who want a reliable and durable transmission.
- Valve Body: The valve body is responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid and is an essential component of the 68RFE's hydraulic system. The valve body regulates the pressure and flow of transmission fluid, which is necessary for proper transmission operation. The valve body also contains the shift solenoids, which control the shifting of the gears.
- Gears: The gears are responsible for providing the necessary gear ratios and are an essential component of the 68RFE transmission. The 68RFE has six gears, which provide a wide range of gear ratios, allowing the transmission to optimize engine performance and provide smooth shifting.
- Clutch Packs: The clutch packs are responsible for engaging and disengaging the gears, which is necessary for shifting. The 68RFE uses multiple wet clutch packs, which use transmission fluid to help cool and lubricate the clutch packs. This design provides improved durability and shift quality, as well as better control of the transmission.
These essential components work together to provide a smooth and reliable driving experience and make the 68RFE one of the most popular transmissions for heavy-duty pickup trucks.
Popular Transmission Upgrades
One of the benefits of the 68RFE transmission is its ability to be upgraded. Upgrading the 68RFE can improve its performance, increase its durability, and provide a smoother driving experience. Here are some of the most popular transmission upgrades for the 68RFE:
- Valve Body Upgrade: The valve body is an essential component of the 68RFE's hydraulic system and is responsible for controlling the flow of transmission fluid. Upgrading the valve body can improve the transmission's shifting performance and increase its durability. Popular valve body upgrades include installing a performance valve body, which provides improved shift quality and response, or a heavy-duty valve body, which is designed to handle increased torque output.
- Transmission Cooler: Installing a transmission cooler is a popular upgrade for the 68RFE, as it helps to cool the transmission fluid and extend the life of the transmission. The cooler is especially important for those who use their trucks for towing or hauling, as the increased load can put extra stress on the transmission and cause it to overheat.
- Shift Kit: A shift kit is a popular upgrade for the 68RFE and is designed to improve the transmission's shifting performance. The shift kit changes the pressure and shift points of the transmission, which results in smoother and more accurate shifting. A shift kit is a great option for those who want improved performance and a smoother driving experience.
- Upgraded Torque Converter: The torque converter is responsible for transmitting engine power to the transmission, and upgrading it can improve the transmission's performance. Upgraded torque converters provide improved lock-up and stall speed, which can result in increased engine performance and improved acceleration.
- Deep Transmission Pan: Installing a deep transmission pan is another popular upgrade for the 68RFE. The deep pan increases the amount of transmission fluid, which helps to cool the transmission and extend its life. The added fluid capacity also provides extra protection for the transmission in the event of a fluid leak.
These are just a few of the popular upgrades for the 68RFE transmission. Upgrading the 68RFE can improve its performance, increase its durability, and provide a smoother driving experience.
How Upgraded Parts Can Improve Your Driving Experience
Upgrading the 68RFE transmission can greatly improve your driving experience. Here's how each upgrade can make a difference:
- Improved Shift Quality and Response: Upgrading the valve body or installing a shift kit can greatly improve the transmission's shift quality and response. The improved shift points and pressures result in smoother and more accurate shifts, which can provide a more enjoyable driving experience.
- Increased Durability: Installing a heavy-duty valve body or a deep transmission pan can increase the durability of the 68RFE. The increased durability is especially important for those who use their trucks for towing or hauling, as the increased load can put extra stress on the transmission.
- Improved Engine Performance: Upgrading the torque converter can improve the transmission's lock-up and stall speed, which can result in increased engine performance and improved acceleration. This can provide a more enjoyable and responsive driving experience, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
- Cooler Transmission Temperatures: Installing a transmission cooler can help to cool the transmission fluid and extend the life of the transmission. This is especially important for those who use their trucks for towing or hauling, as the increased load can cause the transmission to overheat. Keeping the transmission cool can also provide a more reliable driving experience, as it reduces the risk of transmission failure.
- Increased Protection: Installing a deep transmission pan can provide extra protection for the 68RFE in the event of a fluid leak. The added fluid capacity also helps to cool the transmission and extend its life.
Upgrading the 68RFE can greatly improve your driving experience, whether you're a weekend warrior or a heavy-duty truck owner. The improved performance, increased durability, and cooler temperatures can provide a more enjoyable and reliable driving experience. If you're looking for a way to maximize the performance of your vehicle, upgrading the 68RFE is definitely worth considering.
Tier One's Built 68RFE Transmissions:
-2007.5-2018 Ram 2500 & 3500 68RFE Tow-All Transmission
-2019-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 68RFE Tow-All Transmission
-2007.5-2018 Ram 2500 & 3500 600HP Stage 1 68RFE Transmission
-2019-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 600HP Stage 1 68RFE Transmission
-2007.5-2018 Ram 2500 & 3500 750HP Stage 2 68RFE Transmission
-2019-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 750HP Stage 2 68RFE Transmission
-2007.5-2018 Ram 2500 & 3500 900HP Stage 3 68RFE Transmission
-2019-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 900HP Stage 3 68RFE Transmission
-2007.5-2018 Ram 2500 & 3500 +1000HP 68RFE Competition Transmission
-2019-2024 Ram 2500 & 3500 +1000HP 68RFE Competition Transmission