Chrysler 46RH/47RH/47RE 4-Speed Automatic

Paired with: Dodge/Ram 2500-3500, 12-valve and 24-valve Cummins

The automatic that followed the A727, in three closely related revisions: hydraulic 46RH/47RH through 1996, then the partly electronic 47RE from 1996 into the 2003 model year (briefly overlapping the stronger 48RE as the high-output engine arrived). This site groups the three under one entry since they share the same basic Torqueflite-derived design and were never split into separate rows in the underlying truck data.

Strengths

• Simple, well-understood Torqueflite-derived design with decades of parts and rebuild knowledge behind it.
• Reasonably reliable in stock form for a stock-power truck used within its factory towing ratings.

Known weaknesses

• Not originally engineered around a turbodiesel's torque output; the 47RH/47RE in particular is not known for handling that load well over a long service life.

  Note: Keep power levels stock; heavier towing or added power calls for aftermarket clutch, band, and valve body upgrades.

• The overdrive section (thin planetary gears, weak snap rings) is a common failure point under heavy power.

  Note: An overdrive rebuild kit with upgraded snap rings is a standard preventive fix.

• The stock input shaft is a well-known weak point at higher power or heavy towing loads; it can twist or break and take the converter and pump with it.

  Note: A billet (often 300M steel) one-piece input shaft is the standard upgrade for anything beyond stock power.

Sources

• Chrysler/Dodge 47RH, 47RE Automatic Transmission Specs & Ratios (DieselHub) (accessed 2026-09-22)
• The 47 & 48RE Remain Go-To Transmissions in Diesel Performance (Engine Builder Magazine) (accessed 2026-09-22)
• Chrysler 48RE Transmission, Problems, Solutions & Upgrades (NextGen Diesel) (accessed 2026-09-22)