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APS Precision
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
12:18:20
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 Subject: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
I have seen lots on the boards suggesting that the late model 42~47 RH/RE’s are terrible transmissions or even the suggestions that some folks might want to ditch them in favor of a manual transmission YIKES!... Here is the straight scoop this series of transmissions are not a bad design however over the years it seems that Bean Counters probably have had their way in the removal of some vital parts and cheapening of others. I mean removing clutching materials in an effort to save $15 a transmission seems unlikely but it happens imagine the cost savings over a million vehicles… So if you have one of these late model cars what are some of the things you can to fight premature failure?
1. Shift Kits – A shift kit does many things but one of them is to limit overlap (Overlap is defined as one gear being released as another is applied) Overlap will give smooth shifts at the cost of removing clutching materials due to gear binding… Overlap will take your inertial energy and turn it into heat rather then speed… Heat will burn down your transmission faster as everyone knows and should be limited… Limiting overlap with a shift kit is a good positive step… APS also offers pieces and parts in addition to a normal TransGo / B&M / Superior / Level 10 type shift kits for additional capabilities
2. Coolers – Coolers of the Low Pressure Drop variety ($85) are a good investment as they can keep your transmission running cool and collected… Can’t suggest a single brand as there are many very good brands available in the aftermarket… However lets just say it’s a good investment
3. Converters – A sure way to better performance is a High Stall Torque Converter but what to look for first if you’re buying the $200 Mopar Type Converter you are getting lower efficiency model that has spaced out elements to achieve stall… Look for an efficient High Stall converter with increased STR Stator Torque Ratio to deliver 100+ extra pound feet of torque for truly stellar performance. Expect to pay anywhere from $385 on up for an APS BracketFighter or other premium converter
4. Deep Sump Pans – The Mopar Performance Deep Sump / B&M and others are great as they can add many quarts of extra fluid and a convenient drain plug… If your running headers the deep sump pans may not fit correctly and this is something to keep in mind
5. Fluid Choice - Upgrade your fluid to ATF+4 by Mopar or other reputable supplier it is awesome fluid that will keep your transmission running at peak efficiency
6. Power Flushing – My opinion this it the best way to change an operating transmission into a Non-Operating transmission… Avoid power flushing rather change your fluid and filter more frequently
7. Overhaul – At overhaul time APS can create a very strong transmission with blueprinted clearances and special or exclusive parts… At a rebuild you have complete architectural control which means you can have your transmission customized for your application… Custom Sintered Cast Bands, High Ratio Shift levers, Blueprinting of Clearances, Roller Bearings, Aluminum Accumulators with Stainless Steel Blocker Rods, Custom Throttle Valves, No Buzz Pressure Regulators, Racing Clutches, Kolene Steels, Converters, Heavy Duty High Capacity Drums, Custom Direct Clutch Springs, One Piece No Flip Rear Servos and custom Specific Rate Intermediate Servo Springs to name a few… Right now we can get over 850+ Lb feet of torque from the 46~47RE which brings us back to the original point… This transmission can be made highly reliable and flexible with its nicely spaced gear set
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big_torque
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
13:53:09
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Good post , Wayne. Very informative.
Question , what is the best (safe) operating temperature for tranny fluid and approx. at what temp. would an aux. cooler be needed ?
thx
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APS Precision
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
14:29:45
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Thanks for the positive response... I am a strong believer in these transmissions and with 22 years experiance I have done them all... TorqueFlites are far and away my favorite... Again nothing is perfect but some well chosen parts can really make alot of difference and not totally break the bank in the process... Wayne
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JES
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
15:16:26
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Referencing the original post -- Number 6 -- why? Seems counterintuitive. Wouldn't you want to flush out all the contaminated fluid and put all fresh fluid in? What makes this process have a negative or adverse effect on one's transmission? Thanks in advance.
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APS Precision
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
17:47:21
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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If you could be 100% guaranteed that all the contaminants were whisked away... NO PROBLEM... However if you have debris that are stuck somewhere and now you wash that junk through the valve body you could end up with stuck valves for one thing... I disagree with Motor Flush too for the same reason now you take old carbon build up and run it through the main bearings?!?... Imagine how nicely they will be clearanced from that stunt!
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EBL
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
18:19:29
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Could you go through the process and costs involved with a standard rebuild for a mild motor?
I realize that different transmissions have different amounts of damage and wear. Say it is in working condition and just needs a "freshening up"
In a year or two, I will probably be looking into rebuilding my transmission. It runs great now, but with 150k on it, I'm sure the clutches and such are worn.
A 10 year old transmission that has never been rebuilt can't be a bad design.
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sprttrk
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
18:25:59
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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APS WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED AT?
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APS Precision
Dodge Dakota
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7/23/2003
19:09:40
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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EBL with 150K on the clock when you do a rebuild I would plan on a complete not a freshening up as the design cycle is about 125K... Since you have gotten extra miles I will credit that to your proper care and maintenance!... a rebuild can run from $1400 for a basic stock type build to $2900 for the 850Lb Foot of Torque capable model with 5 pinion Steel Planetaries... To get a good idea of what can be done visit www.apsprecision.com and look in the transmission section... Also look at Tips & Tricks for good free advice... If I can be of further help you can contact me at info@apsprecision.com address your comments to Wayne
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DakToBasics
Dodge Dakota
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2/15/2004
08:08:37
|  RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Sorry to drag up an old post but this is good info! If anyone is having problems with thier transmission and is considering a rebuilt unit, go to http://www.powerdemon.com/Index.html !
I have finally gotten my 94 Dak back on the street after MAJOR tranny problems. These guys know thier stuff and are very cool to deal with.
I ordered the Power Demon 46RH with a 500 RPM above stock stall and it performs awesome. They have managed to get the shift overlap out of the gear change yet it only dislodges your dentures when you have your foot in it. It's smooth enough to accelerate in the rain without a constant power slide but has more than enough punch to keep you in a drift through 2nd on dry.
I have a good bit of experience with transmission and these guys are TOP NOTCH! Give them a chance before you spend the same money on a local rebuider for a 1/2 a$$ed job.
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gen1dak
Dodge Dakota
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2/15/2004
12:12:56
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Couldn't agree more regarding the bean counters. The original Torqueflites were good for upwards of 250,000 miles, but this gradually dropped as the bean counters sliced-and-diced the quality out of them. I mean, who else could design an overdrive that'd melt down 7 times in 112,000 miles without any towing? EBL, again, a freshening up would be clutches and gaskets for the most part, and that's the cheaper stuff, even when buying the really good clutches, so get it reworked totally.
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gen1dak
Dodge Dakota
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2/15/2004
12:20:33
| RE: Bum Transmission or Bum Wrap?
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Wayne, do you know anyone who makes a stand-alone electronic controller/shifter for the "RE"-series Mopar trannies.
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