A618 47RE Transmission Rebuild & Repair in Glendale, AZ (Dodge Ram)

Sun West Transmissions — Glendale, AZ. Free estimates, honest diagnosis and a 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty on qualifying rebuilds and replacements.

The A618, renamed the 47RE in the mid-1990s, is the heavy-duty version of Chrysler’s four-speed rear-wheel-drive automatic. It was built for Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks with the 5.9L Cummins diesel and the 8.0L V10 gas engine. Compared with the lighter 46RE, it has more clutch capacity, a heavier-duty overdrive section and a larger torque converter. Even so, Cummins torque, heavy trailers and Arizona heat find its limits, especially on trucks that have been turned up.

Sun West Transmissions in Glendale rebuilds the A618 and 47RE for diesel owners, V10 owners and anyone keeping a second-generation Ram working. We build them for the way you actually use your truck.

A618 / 47RE Applications

• Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 with the 5.9L Cummins, including 12-valve and early 24-valve trucks
• Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 with the 8.0L V10
• Some Ram chassis cab and heavy-duty van applications

In the early 2000s, Dodge moved Cummins trucks to the updated 48RE. For the light-duty version used behind smaller V8s, see the A518 / 46RE page.

Why the 47RE Struggles Behind a Cummins

The 5.9L Cummins makes a lot of torque at low RPM. That torque goes straight into the torque converter, the overdrive clutch and the direct clutch. A stock 47RE can handle a stock truck that is well maintained, but add performance tuning, bigger injectors or heavy fifth-wheel towing in summer, and slippage begins. Slipping makes heat, and heat makes more slipping. Our 47RE and 48RE upgrade page explains how a built unit addresses this.

Common A618 / 47RE Problems

Overdrive Slipping or Failure

The overdrive clutch pack and sprag take a lot of load in fourth gear, particularly at highway speeds while towing. A flare into overdrive, or the truck dropping out of fourth on a grade, is a common early warning.

Torque Converter Clutch Slip

A stock converter clutch may slip behind added power, causing high temperatures and a rising RPM at cruise. Upgraded converters with stronger clutches are a common part of a built 47RE.

Direct Clutch Wear

A slipping 2-3 shift, or slipping in third under load, often points to worn direct clutches. It is a frequent failure on diesel trucks.

Governor Pressure System Faults

Electronic governor sensors and solenoids can fail, causing no upshift, erratic shifts or harsh engagement. These are diagnosable and often repairable on their own.

Band and Linkage Adjustment

The front and rear bands need correct adjustment, and the throttle valve cable must be set properly for the engine. Misadjustment leads to soft shifts and premature wear.

How We Diagnose a 47RE

We check fluid condition and level, scan for codes, test governor pressure components and solenoids, check band and TV adjustments and perform a pressure test and road test. We also ask how you use the truck and whether the engine has been modified, because that affects whether a stock repair or an upgraded build makes sense. See our diesel transmission repair page for more.

Stock Rebuild or Built 47RE?

A stock rebuild replaces all soft parts and worn hard parts to return the transmission to factory specifications. It suits trucks with stock power and moderate towing. A built unit adds components such as upgraded clutch packs, a stronger overdrive section, a performance valve body and a heavy-duty converter. It suits modified trucks and heavy towers. We will explain the difference honestly and help you choose. Learn more about transmission upgrades.

A618 / 47RE Rebuild Process

1. Remove the transmission, disassemble and inspect every part.
2. Replace clutches, bands, steels, seals, gaskets, bushings and filter.
3. Replace worn hard parts and install upgrades if chosen.
4. Service the valve body and governor pressure components.
5. Install a serviced or new torque converter and flush the cooler.
6. Adjust bands and TV cable, fill and road test.

Qualifying rebuilds include our 3-year / 40,000-mile warranty with no deductible on covered repairs.

47RE Rebuild Cost

Cost depends on stock versus built, the converter choice, internal damage and cooler work. We give free estimates and explain each option. For more on diesel pricing factors, see the diesel transmission rebuild cost guide. Financing is available.

A618 47RE Transmission FAQ

Can a stock 47RE handle a tuned Cummins?

Usually not for long. Added power tends to overwhelm the stock converter and clutches. An upgraded build is the safer choice.

What is the difference between the 47RE and 48RE?

The 48RE is a later evolution with stronger internal components and updated controls. Many upgrade parts are shared.

Do I need a bigger transmission cooler?

If you tow in Arizona, an auxiliary cooler is strongly recommended to keep temperatures in check.