The story of the Chrysler 68RFE transmission actually starts out with its original predecessor, the 45RFE. The latter debuted in mid-1998 as an advanced automatic transmission for the American auto manufacturer’s RWD and 4WD pickup truck and SUV applications, starting with the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The 45RFE set itself apart by using three planetary gear sets instead of the usual two found in many other 4-speed automatic transmissions. The later 545RFE transmission would take advantage of this feature through its use of a “2nd Prime” gear which was only available during downshifts; otherwise, the 545RFE would upshift like a normal 4-speed automatic transmission.

Years of constant refinement finally led to the production of the 68RFE transmission, which debuted alongside the 6.7 Cummings ISB diesel engine for the 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 and Dodge Ram 3500 heavy-duty pickups. Not only did it feature a larger bell housing to accommodate the Cummins powertrain, but also a number of other improvements including beefier clutches, gears, and shafts capable of handling the increased torque output. In addition to having a lower 1st gear and a wider ratio spread for improved performance, the 68RFE also did away with the 2nd Prime gear, making this transmission a true 6-speed automatic unit. Its advanced Electronic Range Selection gave it tremendous versatility under a broad range of driving conditions, including faster shifts in “Tow/Haul” mode that reduced wear and tear. It should be noted that the 68RFE was only ever mated with two different transfer cases, the Borg-Warner BW4446 and the BW4447. With that being said, however, always run your VIN to check and make sure the part fits your vehicle.

With its favorable gear spread and robust internals, the 68RFE proved to be a responsive transmission that was well suited to life behind the legendary Cummins engine. The 2012 model year saw the debut of the light-duty 65RFE and 66RFE transmissions, derived mostly from the 545RFE design but with some similarities to the larger 68RFE. In fact, the 66RFE shares the same exact gear ratios as its 68RFE stablemate. 

It’s easy to confuse the 68RFE with the Aisin AS69RC, a 6-speed automatic gearbox that debuted alongside the High-Output variant of the 6.7 Cummins in 2013, as well as the preceding AS68RC that was also offered on certain Ram 3500 models. While all three transmissions share similar designs, the Aisin units feature even stronger internals that makes them capable of handling up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque under certain applications. The AS68RC also featured a power take-off for compatible equipment requiring auxiliary power – a feature that’s absent on the 68RFE.

Transmission Tags for the 68RFE

• 68109704AA
• 68109704AC
• 68109704AD
• 68109703AA
• 68109703AC
• 68109703AD