The 46RE and 47RE are closely related four-speed automatics from Chrysler’s TorqueFlite family, with the same gear ratios. The 46RE was built for lighter-duty gas applications such as half-ton Rams, while the 47RE was built for heavy-duty Rams, including the 5.9 Cummins diesel and the V10, with heavier-duty internals and a converter matched to that torque. They look similar, but a 46RE is not a suitable replacement in a truck that came with a 47RE.
46RE vs 47RE at a glance
| 46RE | 47RE | |
|---|---|---|
| Gear ratios (1st / 2nd / 3rd / 4th) | 2.45 / 1.45 / 1.00 / 0.69 | 2.45 / 1.45 / 1.00 / 0.69 |
| Typical use | Lighter-duty gas V8 trucks and SUVs | Heavy-duty Rams with the 5.9 Cummins or V10 |
| Internals | Standard duty | Heavier duty, with more clutch capacity |
| Control | Throttle valve cable with electronic governor and overdrive control | Same |
| Fluid | ATF+4 | ATF+4 |
What makes the 47RE heavier duty
The 47RE uses stronger parts in the areas that fail first under diesel torque, including greater clutch capacity and a stronger overdrive section, together with a torque converter suited to the engine. That is why the 47RE and its successor, the 48RE, are the transmissions people discuss for Cummins trucks.
The throttle valve cable matters
Both transmissions use a throttle valve (TV) cable to set line pressure and shift timing. A misadjusted cable causes late, harsh or soft shifts and can burn clutches quickly, so adjust it to specification after any transmission or throttle body work.
Which do you have?
Check the vehicle’s build data or the transmission’s identification tag; engine and truck rating usually settle it. See what transmission do I have?
Common problems
Overheating when towing, worn overdrive clutches, governor pressure faults and slipping are the usual complaints; see 47RE problems. Keep the fluid fresh and consider an auxiliary cooler for towing; see transmission coolers.
Governor pressure problems
Both transmissions use a governor pressure solenoid and sensor to control upshifts. When they fail, or the connector corrodes, the truck may stay in first gear, shift erratically or upshift too early. These are inexpensive parts reached by dropping the pan, so check them before assuming the transmission is worn. A low or failing battery and poor grounds can cause similar symptoms, so test the charging system as well.
Replacement units we list
The RoadReady Dodge 46RE is $2,599.00 and the RoadReady Dodge 47RE is $2,799.00, each with a torque converter. Browse 46RE transmissions and 47RE transmissions.
More guides: 545RFE vs 68RFE · how long a 46RE lasts · how long a 47RE lasts.
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