If you own a Cummins-powered Dodge Ram, you have one of these three transmissions. Here's the complete comparison and what each means for ownership.
Quick timeline
47RE (1994-2002)
- 5.9L Cummins behind it
- ~430 ft-lb stock capacity
- Older design
48RE (2003-2007)
- 5.9L Cummins (HO version)
- ~570 ft-lb stock capacity
- Strengthened 47RE
68RFE (2007.5-2018+)
- 6.7L Cummins
- ~610 ft-lb stock, well past that with HD parts
- New design entirely
Key differences
Strength progression
Each generation got stronger to handle increasing Cummins torque output.
Common failures by generation:
- 47RE: Direct clutch, intermediate band, PR valve
- 48RE: Direct clutch (still), OD clutch, PR valve
- 68RFE: Direct clutch (theme), TCC apply piston, billet input mandatory tuned
Year identification:
- 1994-2002 Cummins: 47RE
- 2003-2007 Cummins: 48RE
- 2007.5+ Cummins: 68RFE
What this means for ownership
47RE owner:
- Older but well-known
- Cheap to rebuild
- HD parts widely available
- Read our 47RE/48RE transmission guide
48RE owner:
- Best of the older generation
- Strong stock platform
- HD upgrades plentiful
- Same guide as 47RE applies
68RFE owner:
- Modern design
- Most expensive to rebuild
- Critical to address tuning concerns
- Read our best 68RFE rebuild kit guide
Tuned applications
If you're running tuned Cummins (regardless of generation):
- HD direct clutch mandatory
- Billet input shaft mandatory
- HD torque converter mandatory
- Performance valve body recommended
Read our Cummins diesel transmission upgrades guide for details.
Should I swap to a newer trans?
47RE to 48RE swap:
- Common upgrade if 47RE is failing
- More HD capacity
- Most parts interchange
- Cost: $3,000-6,500 typically
48RE to 68RFE swap:
- Different generation (5.9L vs 6.7L typically)
- Requires engine + trans match
- Major swap, not commonly done
Skip swap if:
- Your trans is healthy
- You don't need more capacity
- Tuning is mild
Rebuild cost summary
47RE rebuild:
- DIY: $700-1,400
- Shop: $2,500-4,000
48RE rebuild:
- DIY: $800-1,500
- Shop: $2,800-4,500
68RFE rebuild:
- DIY: $1,200-2,500
- Shop: $4,000-6,500
- Tuned application: $6,000-12,000
Need Cummins transmission parts? Shop our 47RE catalog, 48RE catalog, or 68RFE catalog. Master kits, billet input shafts, performance valve bodies. Free shipping over $70.
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