If you are searching for a 68RFE transmission for sale, your Ram 2500 or 3500 with the 6.7 Cummins is probably slipping, flaring on upshifts, shuddering on lock-up or throwing transmission codes. The 68RFE is a decent six-speed when it is healthy, but it does not tolerate heat, big tunes or neglect, and when it goes the truck is parked.
Need one now? Our 68RFE transmission for sale is in the shop with price and details, or send us your VIN and we will quote a 68RFE transmission for sale that fits your Ram. We ship worldwide.
This guide covers the specs, which trucks use it, how to tell it apart from the Aisin, the common failures, what to check before buying, the 2019 changes, prices and installation.
Table of Contents
Why Buy a Used 68RFE Transmission for Sale?
The 68RFE has been the standard automatic behind the 6.7 Cummins in Ram heavy-duty pickups since mid-2007. That is a lot of trucks, and it means there are plenty of good cores out there from wrecked or parted-out pickups.
A used 68RFE transmission for sale costs far less than a built aftermarket unit, which can run well into five figures. If your truck is stock or close to stock and you tow sensible loads, a good used factory 68RFE does the job. If you plan to add serious power, a used core is also a smart starting point for a build.
Speed matters too. A work truck sitting in a yard costs money every day. Swapping in a matching used unit gets you back to work in a day or two, rather than waiting for a shop to tear down and rebuild your old one.
68RFE Specifications
Here are the key numbers for matching a 68RFE transmission for sale. It belongs to the Chrysler RFE transmission family, which started with the 45RFE in 1999, and it was designed for the 6.7 liter version of the Cummins B Series diesel.
| Specification | 68RFE |
|---|---|
| Type | 6-speed automatic, double overdrive, rear-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler / FCA / Stellantis (Kokomo, Indiana) |
| Name meaning | 6 speeds, 8 torque class, Rear-wheel drive, Fully Electronic |
| Introduced | Mid 2007 model year (often called 2007.5) |
| Predecessor | 48RE 4-speed |
| Gear ratios | 1st 3.23, 2nd 1.84, 3rd 1.41, 4th 1.00, 5th 0.82, 6th 0.63, Reverse 4.44 |
| Case | Aluminum |
| Weight | About 263 lb |
| Bands | None (band-less design) |
| Torque converter | Lock-up converter with dual-face clutch, lock-up available in 2nd to 6th |
| Filters | Two: an internal sump filter and an external spin-on filter |
| Fluid | Mopar ATF+4 |
| Fluid capacity | Roughly 17 quarts total with converter, less for a service |
| Service interval | Fluid and filters about every 120,000 miles normal duty, 60,000 severe duty |
| Tow/haul | Yes, alternative shift schedule |
| PTO | No PTO provision |
Those wide ratios are why the truck feels strong off the line and quiet on the highway. Sixth gear at 0.63 drops the RPM a lot at cruise, which helps fuel use but also means the transmission works hard when towing up long grades in top gear.
A Short History of the 68RFE
Dodge started putting Cummins diesels in its pickups in 1989. For almost twenty years the automatic behind that engine was a beefed-up version of the old TorqueFlite family: the 727, then the A518, 47RH, 47RE and finally the 48RE. They were simple four-speeds and tough enough at first, but each new Cummins made more torque, and the old design started to struggle.
When the 6.7 Cummins arrived in the middle of the 2007 model year, Chrysler launched the 68RFE alongside it. It was the company’s first automatic designed specifically for the diesel, and it brought six speeds, two overdrive gears and full electronic control. Since then it has been the standard automatic in Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with the regular-output engine, with a refresh for 2019.
That long run is good news for anyone shopping for a 68RFE transmission for sale today. There are a lot of donor trucks, plenty of rebuild parts and a big aftermarket that has fixed most of the known weak spots.
How the 68RFE Works
Unlike the old 48RE, the 68RFE has no bands to adjust. It uses clutch packs for every gear change, controlled by a solenoid pack and the transmission computer. Input and output speed sensors tell the computer how fast each shaft is turning, and a line pressure sensor helps it control apply pressure precisely.
The pump is driven by the torque converter hub, so a converter that is not seated properly can break the pump drive the first time the engine fires. The converter itself has a dual-face lock-up clutch that can lock in second through sixth, which keeps fluid cooler when cruising and towing.
Because everything is electronic, a 68RFE transmission for sale depends on clean wiring, good connectors and correct software. Many shift complaints on these trucks turn out to be electrical, adaptation or fluid problems rather than broken parts.
68RFE vs 48RE
Some owners of older Rams ask whether they can fit a 68RFE in place of a 48RE. It is not a bolt-in job. The 48RE is a hydraulic-electronic four-speed from the 5.9 Cummins era, and the 68RFE needs the matching computer, wiring, shifter, driveshaft length and crossmember position. For a 2007.5-up truck that already has a 68RFE, stick with a matching 68RFE transmission for sale. For an older 5.9 truck, a good 48RE is usually the simpler fix.
Which Trucks Use the 68RFE?
- Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with the 6.7 Cummins, 2007.5 to 2010
- Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with the standard-output 6.7 Cummins, 2011 onward
Chassis cab trucks (3500, 4500, 5500) mostly used the Aisin AS68RC instead, and high-output Ram 3500 pickups use the Aisin AS69RC. Some gas Ram models used the related 66RFE, which looks similar but is a different unit. So when you shop for a 68RFE transmission for sale, the engine and the truck’s build sheet matter.
If you need the engine as well, read our 6.7 Cummins engine guide or the Cummins ISB engine article, since the 6.7 Cummins is part of the ISB family.
68RFE or Aisin? How to Tell
A lot of buyers order the wrong box because both six-speeds sit behind the same engine. Some quick ways to tell:
- Dipstick location: the two transmissions use different dipstick positions, so compare yours with photos of each before ordering.
- Build sheet or RPO style codes: the window sticker or the dealer can confirm the transmission option.
- Truck type: standard pickups mostly have the 68RFE, high-output 3500s and chassis cabs mostly have Aisins.
- Case shape and pan: the Aisin is a larger, heavier unit with a different pan and PTO openings on chassis cab versions.
If in doubt, send us the VIN. We check it before we send a 68RFE transmission for sale.
Details That Must Match
2WD or 4WD
4WD units have a short output and bolt to the transfer case. 2WD units have a long tailshaft. They are not interchangeable without parts.
Model year
Early 2007.5 to 2012 units, 2013 to 2018 units and 2019-up units differ in details. The 2019 update brought a revised pump, valve body, solenoid pack and software. Matching the model year range keeps wiring and programming simple.
Torque converter
The converter has to suit the transmission year and your engine. Many owners fit a new or upgraded converter at the same time because the factory one is a known weak spot.
Electronics
The 68RFE is fully electronic. After installation the transmission needs a quick learn so the computer can adapt to the clutches. A used unit that is not relearned can shift badly even if it is mechanically fine.
7 Checks Before You Buy a 68RFE Transmission for Sale
- Know the donor truck. Year, 2WD or 4WD, mileage and whether the engine was tuned. A box from a stock, unmodified truck is a far safer buy.
- Check the fluid. ATF+4 should be red, not dark brown or black, and should not smell burnt.
- Check the pan and filters. Some fine material on the magnet is normal. Lots of friction material or metal chunks is not.
- Check shaft play. Excessive input shaft movement can point to pump or bushing wear. Input shafts are a known failure on high-power trucks.
- Look for case damage. Check bellhousing ears, mounts and the external filter housing.
- Inspect connectors. Bent pins or corrosion on the solenoid pack connector cause problems that look like internal failure.
- Ask how it was tested. A transmission that was driven and shifting properly before removal is the best bet.
We inspect every 68RFE transmission for sale before shipping and tell you what we found. See our tested used engines page for how we check parts, and our guide to buying used engines online for more buying tips.
Common 68RFE Problems
The 68RFE has a mixed reputation. In stock form and normal use it does fine. Push it hard, add power or let it get hot, and these faults show up.
Torque converter failure
The factory converter is the most common weak point. Stator problems, high stall and lock-up clutch wear lead to shudder, slipping and heat. Contaminated fluid from a failed converter then damages the rest of the transmission.
Valve body cross-leak
The separator plate and gaskets in the valve body can leak between circuits. That lowers clutch apply pressure and causes slipping, flaring and burnt clutches over time. Upgraded separator plates fix it.
Burnt overdrive and 4C clutches
Under load in the overdrive gears, the clutches can slip and burn. Heavy towing in sixth and aggressive tuning make it worse.
Input shaft breakage
On tuned trucks with lots of torque, the input shaft can snap. Billet shafts are a popular upgrade in built transmissions.
Pump problems
Wear in the high-pressure pump causes low line pressure and slow engagement.
Overheating
Towing heavy in hot weather, especially in sixth gear on grades, pushes fluid temperature up fast. Hot fluid kills clutches and seals.
Signs Your 68RFE Is Failing
- Shudder or vibration when the converter locks up
- Slipping or flaring on the 2-3, 3-4 or 4-5 shifts
- Limp mode with transmission codes
- Delayed engagement into drive or reverse
- Fluid that smells burnt or looks dark
- High transmission temperature readings when towing
If several of these show up together, start pricing a 68RFE transmission for sale before the old one fails completely on the road.
The 2019 Update
For the 2019 model year Ram revised the 68RFE with a new pump, valve body changes, a new solenoid pack and updated software. The goal was better durability and shift quality behind the more powerful engine. The changes helped, but the basic limits stayed. A 2019-up unit is not a direct swap into an older truck without matching electronics, so tell us your truck year when asking about a 68RFE transmission for sale.
Rebuild, Upgrade or Replace?
You have three options when a 68RFE fails:
- Stock rebuild: fine for a stock truck, but you may face the same weak spots again.
- Built transmission: upgraded converter, valve body, clutches and input shaft. The right choice for tuned trucks, but expensive.
- Good used unit: the quickest and cheapest way back on the road for stock trucks with normal towing.
Many owners fit a used 68RFE transmission for sale with a new converter and an upgraded separator plate. It is a good middle path between cost and durability.
Towing, Tuning and Heat
If you tow heavy, keep these points in mind:
- Use tow/haul mode. It changes the shift schedule and holds gears longer.
- Avoid long climbs in sixth with a heavy trailer. Drop to fifth to reduce load and heat.
- Watch fluid temperature on a gauge or scan tool.
- Do not add big power without upgrading the transmission. The factory box is the weak link on tuned trucks.
Two Typical 68RFE Jobs We See
2014 Ram 2500, 6.7 Cummins, 4WD. The owner noticed shudder at 45 mph, then slipping when towing a camper. The converter had failed and contaminated the fluid. A low-mileage used 68RFE transmission for sale went in with a new converter and a cooler flush, and the truck went back on the road.
2009 Ram 3500, 6.7, 2WD. A fleet truck that hauled a trailer daily. It lost overdrive. Instead of a long rebuild, the company fitted a matching used unit and did a quick learn. The truck was back working the next day.
What a 68RFE Transmission for Sale Costs
Price depends on year, mileage, condition and whether it is 2WD or 4WD. 2019-up units usually cost more than early units. A used 68RFE transmission for sale is normally a fraction of the price of a built aftermarket transmission, which can cost many thousands of dollars before installation.
Freight is the other part of the bill. The 68RFE is heavy and ships on a pallet, so delivery cost depends on where you are. Our replacement engine cost article explains the same cost factors.
Ask us for a quote and we send the price, shipping cost and what is included together.
Questions to Ask Any Seller
Before you pay for any 68RFE transmission for sale, from us or anyone else, get clear answers to these:
- What year and model was the donor truck, and was it 2WD or 4WD?
- Roughly how many miles were on it?
- Was the engine tuned or stock?
- Was the truck driven before the transmission came out, and how did it shift?
- Is the torque converter included, and is it the original?
- Can you send photos of the case, pan, connectors and tag?
- What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
- How will it be packed, and what does freight to my address cost?
A seller who answers these quickly and clearly is usually a safer bet. If the answers are vague, keep looking for a better 68RFE transmission for sale.
What Comes With Our Transmission
Each 68RFE transmission for sale we ship includes:
- The complete transmission as removed from the donor truck
- Torque converter when available (we confirm on the quote)
- Donor year and approximate mileage where known
- Photos on request
- Secure palletizing for freight
Read our used engine warranty and refund and returns policy before ordering.
Installing a Used 68RFE
- Flush or replace the cooler. Debris from a failed converter hides in the cooler and lines.
- Use a fresh or verified converter. Seat it fully on the pump before bolting the transmission up.
- Check the flexplate. Cracks and worn bolt holes are common on diesels.
- Fit new filters. Replace both the internal and external filters.
- Fill with ATF+4. Use the correct fluid only. Check level hot with the engine running.
- Do a quick learn. Use a suitable scan tool to run the transmission quick learn procedure.
- Road test gently. Let the transmission adapt with normal driving before towing.
Skipping the quick learn is the number one reason a good 68RFE transmission for sale shifts badly after installation.
What Your Mechanic Should Check on Delivery Day
- Correct drive type and model year range
- No freight damage to the case, pan, external filter housing or connectors
- Input and output shafts turn with normal play
- Converter included if it was quoted
Contact us before installing if anything does not match.
Looking After It Afterwards
The book says 120,000 miles between services under normal conditions. Most diesel owners who tow do it much sooner, around 30,000 to 60,000 miles, and that is what we suggest for any used 68RFE transmission for sale. Keep the cooler clean, watch temperature, and avoid heavy tunes on a stock box.
Buying a 68RFE Transmission for Sale From Abroad
Ram heavy-duty trucks with the 6.7 Cummins are popular far outside the USA, and we ship to buyers across North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Oceania. When ordering a 68RFE transmission for sale from overseas:
- Send the VIN, model year and 2WD or 4WD.
- Tell us your nearest port or delivery address.
- Check import duties with your customs broker first.
- Make sure a local shop has a scan tool that can run the quick learn.
Read our shipping policy for freight details.
How to Order
- Browse our transmissions or contact us with your VIN.
- We confirm fitment and send a quote with price and shipping.
- You pay by bank transfer and receive an invoice and order confirmation by email.
- We palletize the transmission, ship it and send tracking.
Call us on +1 (209) 733-0882. Our terms of service explain the details.
Related Transmissions and Engines
- 4L60E transmission for sale for GM light-duty trucks
- 4L80E transmission for sale for GM heavy-duty trucks
- Allison 1000 transmission guide
- 6.7 Cummins engine guide
- Chrysler Hemi engine guide
- 6.7 Powerstroke engine guide
See the full range in our shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a 68RFE from a 2012 Ram fit my 2016 Ram?
Often yes if both are the same drive type, but there are small differences across years. Send your VIN and we will confirm.
Can I put a 2019 68RFE in an older truck?
Not as a simple swap. The 2019-up unit has different electronics and software.
Does the 68RFE transmission for sale include a torque converter?
Often yes. We confirm it on your quote. Many owners fit a new converter anyway.
Can it handle a tuned 6.7 Cummins?
Mild tunes with careful driving, sometimes. Big power needs a built transmission with an upgraded converter, valve body and input shaft.
What fluid does it use?
Mopar ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid only.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, by freight to most countries.
How do I pay?
By bank transfer. You receive an invoice and order confirmation by email.
Get Your Ram Back to Work
A good 68RFE transmission for sale is the fastest way to get a 6.7 Cummins Ram back on the road. Match it to your VIN, fit a healthy converter, flush the cooler, do the quick learn and keep it cool, and it will serve you well. When you are ready, visit the 68RFE transmission for sale page or send us your VIN.