How to Extend the Life of Your 68RFE Transmission: Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

The 68RFE automatic transmission, found in Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks equipped with the 6.7L Cummins engine, is a heavy-duty six-speed transmission designed for towing, off-road use, and daily driving. However, if not properly maintained, it has been known to suffer from overheating, weak internal components, and premature clutch wear.

Many 68RFE failures could be prevented with regular maintenance and key upgrades. In this guide, we’ll cover the best maintenance tips and upgrades to help you extend the lifespan of your 68RFE transmission, avoid costly rebuilds, and keep your Dodge Ram running strong for years to come.

1. Perform Regular Transmission Fluid Changes

Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of the 68RFE, and neglecting fluid changes is one of the quickest ways to cause internal wear. Over time, fluid breaks down due to heat and contamination, leading to poor lubrication and excessive friction.

How Often Should You Change 68RFE Transmission Fluid?

✔ Every 30,000-50,000 miles for normal driving conditions
✔ Every 20,000-30,000 miles for heavy towing or performance applications

Best Fluid for 68RFE Transmission

  • Use ATF+4 transmission fluid, the recommended fluid for Dodge Ram 68RFE transmissions

  • Avoid mixing different ATF types, as this can lead to shift quality issues

Steps for a Proper Fluid Change

  1. Drain the old fluid and remove the transmission pan

  2. Replace the transmission filter

  3. Refill with fresh ATF+4 fluid and check fluid level regularly

👉 Pro Tip: Consider upgrading to a deep transmission pan to increase fluid capacity and help keep temperatures lower. The BD Diesel 68RFE Deep Sump Transmission Pan is a great option, as it enhances fluid cooling and provides additional durability for heavy-duty applications.

2. Keep Transmission Temperatures in Check

Overheating is one of the leading causes of 68RFE failure. High temperatures break down transmission fluid, wear out clutch packs, and damage internal components.

How to Keep Your 68RFE Cool

✔ Install an aftermarket transmission cooler – The stock 68RFE cooler isn’t always enough for towing or performance applications. A high-performance cooler can reduce temperatures and prevent overheating.
✔ Use a Deep Transmission Pan—A Monster 68RFE deep pan increases fluid capacity and helps dissipate heat more effectively.
✔ Monitor Transmission Temps – If you tow heavy loads, install a transmission temperature gauge to ensure fluid stays below 200°F.

3. Upgrade the Valve Body for Smoother Shifting

The valve body is the control center of your 68RFE’s shifting performance. Over time, valve body wear can cause harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and pressure loss.

Why Upgrade Your 68RFE Valve Body?

✔ Eliminates pressure loss issues
✔ Improves shift quality & response time
✔ Extends the life of clutch packs & bands

Solution: Install a Monster 68RFE Performance Valve Body, which provides better fluid control, quicker shifts, and improved reliability.

4. Use a High-Performance Torque Converter

The factory 68RFE torque converter is one of its weakest points, often leading to slipping, shuddering, and heat buildup. A high-performance torque converter helps reduce heat and improves power transfer.

Benefits of a Monster 68RFE Torque Converter:

✔ Stronger lockup clutch for better towing performance
✔ Eliminates torque converter shudder
✔ Reduces heat buildup under heavy loads

A billet triple-disc torque converter is highly recommended if you tow frequently or run higher horsepower tuning.

5. Check and Maintain Transmission Line Pressure

Low line pressure in the 68RFE transmission is a major cause of slipping, slow shifts, and premature clutch wear.

How to Maintain Proper Transmission Pressure

✔ Upgrade to a High-Pressure Solenoid & Pump Kit – A Monster 68RFE high-pressure solenoid increases fluid pressure, improving clutch engagement and shift firmness.
 ✔ Recalibrate Shift Tuning – If your truck is tuned, ensure your transmission tuning is optimized to increase line pressure.

6. Avoid Excessive Torque Without Proper Upgrades

The 68RFE is not designed to handle extreme torque in stock form. If you’ve tuned your truck or added power upgrades, your transmission needs reinforced internal components.

When to Consider a Built 68RFE Transmission

✔ If your truck makes more than 500HP and 1,000 lb-ft of torque
✔ If you tow heavy loads frequently
✔ If you’ve experienced repeated transmission slipping or overheating

7. Drive Smart to Reduce Transmission Wear

Your driving habits play a huge role in transmission longevity. Aggressive driving, excessive towing, or hotshot hauling without proper transmission upgrades can cause premature failure.

Driving Tips to Extend 68RFE Life

✔ Allow transmission to warm up before heavy use
 ✔ Avoid full-throttle launches with heavy loads
 ✔ Use Tow/Haul mode when pulling trailers
 ✔ Downshift manually on steep descents to reduce strain

Preventative Maintenance is Key to a Long-Lasting 68RFE

The 68RFE transmission can handle heavy-duty workloads, but proper maintenance and upgrades are essential to ensure long-term reliability.

Key Takeaways to Extend 68RFE Transmission Life:

✔ Change fluid and filters regularly
✔ Upgrade the transmission cooler and deep pan
✔ Install a high-performance valve body for better shifts
✔ Use a billet torque converter for stronger lockup
✔ Increase transmission pressure to prevent slipping
✔ Drive smart and avoid excessive torque without proper upgrades

Upgrading to a Monster 68RFE Transmission is the ultimate solution for truck owners who demand maximum durability and power.

Upgrade to a Monster 68RFE Transmission Today

Browse our Monster 68RFE lineup and get a transmission built to handle towing, power, and extreme durability.