Transmission Filter Kit Guide for 2011-2016 Ram 4500
Keep your heavy-duty Ram's transmission shifting strong by choosing the right filter kit for your specific transmission.
- First, positively identify your transmission: 68RFE (dipstick on passenger side) or Aisin AS69RC (dipstick on driver side). They use different kits.
- Regular filter changes are crucial for these heavy-duty trucks, especially if you tow. Follow a 60,000-mile interval or sooner for severe use.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Wix are a reliable alternative to more expensive Mopar parts.
- Always use the correct, specific transmission fluid for your model (ATF+4 for 68RFE, ASRC for Aisin). Using the wrong fluid will cause damage.
The Most Important Step: Identify Your Transmission
Before you buy any parts, you must know which automatic transmission is in your 2011-2016 Ram 4500. These trucks came with two different heavy-duty options, and they use completely different filter kits.
Ordering the wrong kit is the most common mistake owners make. The parts are not interchangeable. Here’s how to tell them apart:
- Chrysler 68RFE: This was the standard transmission on many Ram models. The transmission fluid dipstick is on the passenger side of the engine bay. The oil pan is a rectangle with angled corners. This transmission uses a kit with two filters: a main sump filter inside the pan and a screw-on cooler return filter.
- Aisin AS69RC: This was the optional, heavier-duty transmission, often found in high-output and chassis cab models. The transmission fluid dipstick is on the driver's side of the engine bay. The oil pan is larger and more square. It uses a single sump filter inside the pan.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brand
For a hard-working truck, you don't want to cut corners on transmission maintenance. However, you don't always need to pay dealership prices. Here’s an honest look at the available brands.
| Brand Tier | Brand(s) | Quality & Value Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| OEM / Premium Aftermarket | Mopar, Wix | Mopar is the original factory part, offering guaranteed fit and performance, though it's the most expensive option. Wix is a top-tier aftermarket brand with a strong reputation for quality that often meets or exceeds OEM specifications. For owners who want peace of mind without the dealer markup, Wix is a trusted choice. |
| Standard Aftermarket | ATP | ATP is a well-known aftermarket brand that offers a good balance of quality and value. Forum discussions suggest they are a reliable choice for daily driving and standard use. Their gaskets are often praised. For extreme heavy towing or high-mileage commercial use, sticking with a premium brand might be preferred, but for most owners, ATP is a solid, budget-friendly option. |
Using the correct transmission fluid is just as important as the filter. The two transmissions use different, non-compatible fluids. Always check your owner's manual.
- 68RFE: Requires Mopar ATF+4 fluid.
- Aisin AS69RC: Requires Mopar ASRC Transmission Fluid or an equivalent approved fluid (like Mobil 3309). Using ATF+4 in an Aisin will cause damage.
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
While no recalls specifically target the transmission filters, there have been some related service bulletins and investigations for this generation of Ram trucks.
- NHTSA Investigation (RQ25003): An investigation was opened for 2013-2018 Ram 2500/3500/4500/5500 trucks regarding a potential failure of the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI), which could allow the truck to roll away. This followed earlier recalls for the same issue.
- Aisin TSB 21-002-23: For later models (2019+ but relevant to the transmission family), a TSB was issued for a K1 clutch snap ring failure in the Aisin AS69RC transmission, which could cause a check engine light and a P0731 code.
These issues highlight the importance of maintaining the transmission. A clogged filter can worsen shifting problems and put extra stress on internal components.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I change the transmission filter on my Ram 4500?
Service intervals depend on the transmission and how you use your truck. For the Aisin AS69RC, the recommendation is a fluid drain and fill every 30,000 miles, with a filter change at 60,000 miles. For the 68RFE, many sources recommend a fluid and filter service every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. If you tow heavy or operate in severe conditions, you should service it more frequently, such as every 50,000-60,000 miles.
Is an aftermarket filter kit as good as Mopar?
Yes, a high-quality aftermarket kit can be just as good. Brands like Wix have a strong reputation for matching OEM quality. Standard brands like ATP offer a reliable alternative for a lower price. The key is to avoid generic, no-name parts and stick with reputable manufacturers.
Do I need to replace the pan gasket every time?
It is highly recommended. Most filter kits come with a new gasket. Reusing an old gasket can easily lead to leaks, which can cause low fluid levels and severe transmission damage. The cost of a new gasket is minimal compared to the cost of a new transmission.
Is this a DIY job?
For a mechanically inclined owner, yes. The process involves draining the fluid, dropping the transmission pan, swapping the filter(s), cleaning the pan magnet, and reinstalling with a new gasket before refilling with the correct fluid. It's a messy job. The Aisin transmission service can be more complex due to crossmember interference, sometimes requiring the transmission mount to be loosened and the crossmember pivoted to access all the pan bolts.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68224232AA (Aisin Filter) 68214914AA (Aisin Gasket) 5013470AE (68RFE Sump Filter) 68218058AC (68RFE Fluid) 05189966AD (Aisin Fluid)
Kit contents vary by transmission. The 68RFE kit includes one sump filter, one spin-on filter, and a pan gasket. The Aisin AS69RC kit includes one sump filter and a pan gasket.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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