8-Speed Automatic Transmission Assembly for 2014 Ram 1500

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:

• Verify the 8th digit of the vehicle's VIN is 'M' (confirming the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine).
• Verify the axle ratio is 3.55 (Sales Code DMC) via the build sheet, window sticker, or glovebox sticker.
• Verify the drivetrain is 4x4 (confirm presence of front differential and transfer case).
• Verify the Mopar part number on the barcode sticker on the driver's side of the transmission case matches 68240755AD or 04800755AF.

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Heavy-duty transmission jack
• Long extensions (24 inches or longer) and swivel/u-joint sockets
• OBD2 scan tool with advanced Chrysler diagnostics (wiTECH, AlfaOBD, or Snap-on)
• Fluid pump or fill tool
• Torque wrench

Budget for these consumables at install:

• Mopar 8&9 Speed ATF (Part # 68218925AA / 68218925AB) or ZF Lifeguard 8 fluid (Do NOT use ATF+4 or generic fluids)
• Approximately 8.8 to 9.5 quarts (8.3 to 9.0 liters) of fluid for a dry fill
• New integrated plastic oil pan assembly (includes filter, gasket, and drain plug) and new pan bolts
• New front pump / torque converter input shaft seal
• Transmission cooler flush solvent / dedicated flushing machine

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: TCM Adaptive Relearn (Quick Learn) and VIN-Specific Programming

The internal TCM is VIN-locked and tied to the vehicle's security system. You must either swap your original functional Mechatronic unit into the replacement transmission, or have a dealership/locksmith program your vehicle's VIN and security keys into the replacement TCM. Additionally, a TCM Adaptive Relearn (Quick Learn) must be performed using a compatible scan tool to reset clutch fill times and pressures.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• Torque Converter Seating: Ensure the torque converter is fully seated (three distinct clicks/drops) before bolting the transmission to the engine. Forcing it with bellhousing bolts will crack the internal oil pump.
• Fluid Fill Procedure: The unit has no dipstick. Fluid level must be checked via the side fill plug with the vehicle level, engine running, and fluid temperature strictly between 30°C and 50°C (86°F to 122°F).
• Cooler Line Flush: You must thoroughly flush the transmission cooler and lines to clear out metal shavings or burnt fluid from the failed unit to prevent immediate contamination.
• Bellhousing Dowel Pins: Ensure alignment dowel pins are clean and not double-dowelled (stuck in both the engine and replacement transmission case).
• Plastic Oil Pan Torque: Tighten the plastic pan bolts to a low torque value (around 10 ft-lbs) in a crisscross pattern to avoid cracking the pan.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Axle Ratio Mismatch: Ordering a transmission programmed/geared for a 3.55 axle ratio and installing it in a truck with a 3.92 axle ratio, which triggers limp mode due to speed sensor mismatches.
• Using the Wrong Fluid: Attempting to save money by using cheap ATF+4 or generic Dexron fluid instead of the required Mopar 8&9 Speed ATF or ZF Lifeguard 8.
• Skipping the Adaptive Relearn: Failing to reset TCM adaptations, causing the TCM to apply incorrect pressures based on worn-clutch parameters, leading to harsh shifts and clutch damage.
• Reusing the Old Oil Pan/Filter: Reusing the old plastic pan, which leaves trapped metal shavings from the previous failure to contaminate the replacement unit.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: