Aisin AS69RC vs. 68RFE: Which Transmission Do You Have?

If you own a heavy-duty Ram truck with a 6.7L Cummins diesel, chances are you’ve heard about the ongoing debate: the Aisin AS69RC versus the 68RFE. Both transmissions have their strengths and weaknesses, and both have their place in Ram’s lineup. But before you can decide which transmission is better—or understand its quirks—you first need to know which one you actually have.

Here at Monster Transmission, we get calls every week from Ram owners asking: “Do I have the Aisin or the 68RFE?” It’s a critical question, because the parts, upgrades, and solutions are very different between the two. In this blog, we’ll break it all down in plain English, show you how to identify your transmission, explain the key differences, and link you to solutions for the most common problems with each unit.

Quick Overview of Each Transmission

68RFE: Introduced in 2007.5, the 68RFE is the more common transmission found in Ram 2500s and many Ram 3500s. It’s lighter, less expensive to maintain, and widely supported in the aftermarket. While reliable for light-to-medium towing, the 68RFE does have well-documented weaknesses under heavy load. For details, check our full blog on common 68RFE problems and solutions.

Aisin AS69RC: Introduced in 2013 for Ram’s biggest trucks, the AS69RC is reserved for high-output Cummins-powered Ram 3500s, and standard in Ram 4500 and 5500 chassis cabs. It’s larger, heavier, and designed for maximum torque capacity. It excels in commercial-duty and heavy towing but comes with higher service costs and fewer aftermarket tuning options. For a closer look at its issues, read our blog on AS69RC problems and solutions.

Which Ram Models Use Which Transmission?

Here’s a simple breakdown by model year and trim:

  • Ram 2500 (2007.5–present): Always equipped with the 68RFE.
  • Ram 3500 (2007.5–2012): 68RFE was the only option.
  • Ram 3500 (2013–2018): Could have either transmission. Trucks with the standard-output Cummins got the 68RFE, while those with the high-output Cummins used the Aisin AS69RC.
  • Ram 4500 & 5500 (2013–present): Usually equipped with the Aisin AS69RC.

If you’re driving a 2013+ Ram 3500, you’ll want to double-check which engine package you have—this determines which transmission you’re running.

How to Identify Your Transmission

If you’re not sure which transmission your truck has, here are a few ways to tell:

  • Build Sheet or Window Sticker: Enter your VIN on Ram’s website or Mopar’s build sheet lookup tool. It will specify “68RFE” or “AS69RC.”
  • Transmission Pan Shape: The 68RFE has a distinct rectangular pan with angled corners, while the AS69RC pan is larger, squarer, and deeper.
  • Badging and Packages: Most high-output Cummins trucks (with higher torque ratings) came with the Aisin. Standard-output Cummins trucks used the 68RFE.
  • Label Plate: Some transmissions have an ID tag riveted to the case—this will list the model code.

If in doubt, call us at (800) 708-0087 with your VIN—we’ll help you confirm which transmission you have before you order parts or a rebuild.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Here’s a side-by-side look at what each transmission brings to the table:

  • 68RFE Pros: Lighter, cheaper to service, huge aftermarket support, decent for everyday towing.
  • 68RFE Cons: Known for valve body issues, weak clutch packs, and failures when pushed beyond stock torque levels.
  • AS69RC Pros: High torque capacity, built for heavy-duty work, stronger internals, more reliable for commercial use.
  • AS69RC Cons: More expensive to service, heavier, fewer tuning options, still has common weak points like the K2 hub and valve body.

Monster’s Solutions

At Monster Transmission, we’ve tackled the weak spots in both transmissions head-on:

Both are dyno-tested, built to exceed OEM durability, and backed by Monster’s industry-leading warranty. Whether you have the AS69RC or 68RFE, we’ve got proven upgrades that keep you on the road.

FAQ: Aisin AS69RC vs. 68RFE

Q: Which transmission is better for towing?
A: The AS69RC has the edge in torque capacity and is designed for heavier loads. But with upgrades, the 68RFE can also handle serious towing duty.

Q: Which transmission is cheaper to maintain?
A: The 68RFE is less expensive to service and has more aftermarket options, making it a more budget-friendly choice.

Q: How do I know for sure which transmission I have?
A: Check your VIN, build sheet, or transmission pan shape—or call Monster Transmission and we’ll confirm it for you.

Bottom Line

Whether you’ve got a 68RFE or an Aisin AS69RC, knowing which transmission you have is the first step to keeping it alive and performing at its best. Each has strengths, each has weaknesses, and both can be improved with the right upgrades.

If you’re unsure what you have, give us a call at (800) 708-0087. And when you’re ready to upgrade, check out our full line of Monster Dodge/Ram transmissions.

At Monster, we build more than transmissions—we build relationships. Helping Ram owners understand their transmissions and choose the right upgrades is just one more way we keep you moving with confidence.