2014 Ram 1500 8 Speed Transmission Service

[@HandyDoc]

Hey Guys, Just a quick update to my video. Checking the fluid with the truck on the ground is very hard. When trans reaches temp and you get slow dribble it’s hard to get the fill plug back in. HOT exhaust pipes near by make it very tough. Of course this needs to be done with the vehicle RUNNING. I ended up draping an old leather welding apron over the exhaust pipes after getting several burns! Be careful!

[@tomfenimore9667]

Wish I had read your update first before I did mine. I burnt my arm pretty good. Then my wife came up with the idea of soaking some towels and wrapping the exhaust. Good cheap alternative to a welding apron. Chrysler engineers should be beaten for putting this crossover pipe where they did.

[@yogibeer9319]

RAM doesn’t make it easy to do a lot of maintenance. I think they make most of their profits on repair and maintenance. Thanks for an awesome video.

[@robwilliams1508]

Glad i found your video. I'm in the middle of this and can't get pan off due to exhaust pipe. Removing the trans mount bolts is a lot easier than loosening the exhaust Y pipe. This issue is not mentioned in the Ram shop manual I bought. Here are the instruction for filling the trans after replacing the pan, it is involved and vehicle has to be running and raised as it needs to be put in gear and run up to 2nd gear. Also I found that Amsoil ATL trans fluid meets the Shell M-L12108 fluid spec for this trans and its a lot cheaper than the dealer fluid and its fully synthetic unlike the dealer fluid that is semi-synthetic. To properly check and fill the transmission, perform the following procedure: WARNING: There is a risk of accident from vehicle moving when the engine is running. Secure vehicle to prevent it from moving. There is a risk of injury from contusions and burns if you insert your hands into the engine when it is running. Do not touch hot or rotating parts. Wear properly fitted work clothes. CAUTION: A unique transmission fluid has been developed for this transmission. This fluid is NOT compatible with ATF+4 or any other current Chrysler transmission fluid. For specifics about this unique fluid see FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS AND GENUINE PARTS . NOTE: Oil dye is not required to find leaks in the 8HP transmission. The oil dye can cause shift quality issues and is not recommended. The 8HP fluid has illuminance that is visible under a black light. 1.Raise and support the vehicle on a level hoist (Refer to 04 - Vehicle Quick Reference/Hoisting - Standard Procedure) . 2.Start the engine. The engine must continue to run for the entire test. 3.Using a scan tool or the vehicle information center, verify that the transmission fluid temperature is below 30°C (86°F). 4.Disable traction control (ESC). 5.Remove the fill plug from the right rear of the transmission case. 6.Add transmission fluid until it trickles from the fill opening. 7.Install the fill plug. 8.Lower the vehicle for access to inside of the vehicle, leaving the tires at least 8 inches off the ground. 9.With the brakes applied, place the transmission in Reverse and hold for 5 seconds. 10.Place the transmission in Drive and hold for 5 seconds. 11.Release the brakes, slowly accelerate to 2nd gear and hold for 5 seconds. 12.Apply the brakes and place the transmission in Neutral. 13.Raise the engine speed to 2000 RPM for 5 seconds. 14.Return the engine to idle and place the transmission in Park. NOTE: A full transmission will have fluid at the fill hole with the transmission between 30°C (86°F) and 50°C (122°F). Do not over fill. 15.Remove the fill plug and allow excess fluid to drain from fill hole or add fluid as necessary. 16.Install the fill plug. 17.Using a scan tool, clear any DTCs.

[@dennisjackson6998]

I do believe Boosted made a point of the "transmission" being level (not the truck) when filling and doing the level checks. On trucks that means you need to jack up the rear quite a bit (like tires 8"off the ground). Good idea on loosening the trans mount bolts for pan clearance if need to get the pan out. I have not seen any other videos mention trouble getting the pan out on later models and other videos do not mention getting the trans level but some did say get (truck level rather than the trans).

[@bradrielly7031]

When the truck is level on your lift, your tranny will not be level. The tranny tilts down quite a bit. The advice I got was to do it on the ground with the rear raised at least 8 inches. I'm doing this soon and checked the other day. I jacked up the rear and slid ramps under my rear wheels. Then I checked and sure enough the tranny was close to level. If it's not level, you may not be getting enough fluid in there.

[@kenik2023]

As a mechanic with 20+ years experience trust me when I say, Don't flush, drain and fill is your best bet. I don't know how many flushes I've seen come back and the transmission is slipping on every single make and model.

[@akwild83]

Not sure if I seen wrong but I noticed you didn't loosen the fill plug before draining the fluid, it would be a very bad day if all the fluid is gone then have no way to fill it

[@davidrobins4025]

Very well done presentation of the procedure. Thank You. I don't have a RAM truck (mine is a 2013 Dodge Charger SXT with the 8 speed transmission and NO dipstick or place to put one). I have 172,000 + km on it now. (106,876 mi) Every little bit of information I can learn before I attempt this service is worth the effort and time.

[@oldkingston24]

David, excellent video for a process that RAM has made so difficult. My mechanic wants to do a full flush, and I agree, but his machine does not have an application for this eight speed. I might have to settle for just a new filter/pan, and topping off the fluid which goes against everything I've done in the past. I really like this 2014 RAM, and it has served us well, but having no dipstick and poor access for a true transmission flush and fill is poor engineering.

[@Glock274Jimmy]

I'm thinking your tranny is about a 1/2 quart low on fluid. When running it through the gears, there is also a requirement to put in drive and go into second gear for five seconds, then brake to stop the wheels and rev it up to 2,000 RPM for five seconds. The second thing is that the bottom of the trans pan rail is what needs to be level in these trucks, not the truck itself. With some vehicles, it is the vehicle that needs to be level. Some use jack stands on the highest setting and that is getting pretty close. Just those things will affect your level and I think that is why you only got 4.5 quarts into it when most people get 5 to 5.5. Of course, this video was posted five years ago, so it's a moot point by now LOL. Great vid. Thanks for posting.

[@Jimmerca]

Thanks for sharing, also read in the instructions that the traction control must be turned off when performing this procedure

[@genepierson1728]

Thanks for sharing. I like sign behind you, the name of your garage!

[@HandyDoc]

Oops! Amateur video, didn’t notice it was there. My wife bought it,for my garage…..not sure why?🤔

[@tyronemorman6509]

I changed my trans fluid. And now my trans is slipping with the check engine light on. I have 07 dodge ram 1500 5.7. I changed both filters also. My trans fliud before drain was good. Still red.

[@rickshutt3974]

Hi David, did you ever come up with a good way to drain and flush the entire system. What is your opinion on disconnecting the trans fluid line that runs to the radiator cooler, and let the running engine pump the old fluid out of the torque converter until you get air bubbles, then drain the pan.

[@HandyDoc]

Hey Rick, I have sold the truck since I made the video, so I can’t look at it. I believe the reason I didn’t do a complete flush was because the tranny lines to the cooler are hard lines. Even if you disconnected one line you would have to figure a way to attach a flexible hose to direct the fluid to a container. Since the manufacturer says the transmission requires no service I feel doing the pan and filter is beneficial.

[@anasalzyoud]

Hello David, I have 2014 RAM 5.7, with 131 K mile on it, is it ok to do a Trans fluid change or it will harm my transmission? here its cost around 3K USD for a used trans :)

[@HandyDoc]

Hey Anas, Of course it’s OK to change your Transmission fluid! It can only help your Transmission continue to give you many more miles. There are a lot of Urban Legends that problems happen if you change your fluid. That makes no sense. Just make sure you use the fluid I showed, easily found on E bay. Good luck!

[@trplpwr1038]

Dave can I come by and borrow you lift?

[@ScionTc]

My 2014 Ram 1500 started having transmission overheat issues Im thinking that it may need the fluid change I just got the truck not too long ago it has 132,000 miles . Any one with same issues or advise ? I dont know why the transmission would over heat so im getting ready to do the fluid change just like on this video.

[@rwonser53]

Just changed my 2014 ram 136,000 miles it was black and lots of metal on the magnets. Not good, but we'll see what happens with all new fluid! Used ZF 8 fluid and new ZF pan with filter.!!

[@pkmathome1500]

What temp u running?

[@ScionTc]

@@pkmathome1500 My transmission temp would go up all the way to 250 degress way too hot I have to turn off the truck and wait until it cools down. I changed the fluid and stills overheats . I added a cooler and is doing better it would stay about 210 degress when driving on the highway but once I drive on roads it overheats to about 235 degrees. So at this point idk what else it could be. Some people say it may be the transmission heater or the 3 way valve that could be causing the overheating. I need help this is frustrating and I dont wana take it to a dealer and get ripped off

[@michaelpersaud4587]

It’s probably the thermostatic valve in the cooler. The valve opens at around 192 degrees to let fluid past and go to and from the cooler. If it is stuck closed the trans fluid will over heat and cause problems. Get a new cooler. It located on the driver side and has four lines hooked up to it. The valve is built into that. Hope this helps.

[@elitecamaroz28]

Thank you, sir! I'm just over 90k and will be doing this soon.

[@HandyDoc]

I think if you just enter th tranny pan part number on Amazon it will come up

[@hankbresyn3582]

Thank you sir for mentioning the T40 Allen needed wish I watched this video first all other ones just act like you can use a standard ratchet and extension

[@bthomasi2900]

Thank you. Good video and very good presentation.

[@HandyDoc]

Thanks Bill

[@johnf.6942]

70,000 miles. I tow a camper with my 2015 , same truck It just turned 50,000 miles. Do you recommend to do it now ?

[@HandyDoc]

It never hurts to do it earlier ( except your wallet!). Unless you tow that camper a lot, I think waiting until 70k is fine. Good luck.

[@johnf.6942]

@@HandyDoc Ok , not to bad, I have pulled it about 5,000 miles in the last 12 months

[@GRockBlues]

Just called my dealer...the parts alone are 750 bucks for pan and filter (which cannot be separated) and 9 quarts of oil...SERIOUSLY?...Then he says you really dont have to do anything to the 8 speeds because they have synthetic 8/9 speed specific fluid...the pan and filter was $350 the fluids are $350 and the labor is $165...plust tax is over $900 BUCKS!!...

[@HandyDoc]

That’s why I made this video! I don’t believe the idea that you don’t have to do anything

[@GRockBlues]

@@HandyDoc I concur!

[@chadrains]

Yep, called dealer service to get this done because I didn't see it in the manual's service table. Theyy said you don't need to service this particular ransmission ever.

[@HandyDoc]

It’s your call! I don’t believe any transmission never needs service.

[@GRockBlues]

@@HandyDoc Too many of these transmissions fail well before 100,000 miles...that is proof to the fact that they need servicing...I also been told this by a very reputable transmission shop here in the city we live in...Thanks David...you rule!

[@andrewsotak1599]

I pulled up amazon and it says it doesnt fit my truck. I have the same ram 1500, 8 speed hemi. Am I missing something?

[@HandyDoc]

Well all I can tell you is it fits perfectly! It’s weird, the list of Venice’s in the add doesn’t even include any RAM trucks, lots of BMWs and Rolls Royces?

[@dennisjackson6998]

You can't trust Amazon or Ebay recommendations they are often wrong!!!

[@jamesmullin8889]

Is this the same trans they use in the 2wd ones?? Its a 3.6vvt with the 8spd

[@HandyDoc]

Yes, I believe it is the same trans James!

[@pkmathome1500]

What temp you running under normal operation? What about towing?

[@HandyDoc]

Sorry I don’t remember? I’ve sold the truck, got a 2021!

[@lemike321]

How about the oil that went into the radiator has it been drained out?

[@HandyDoc]

Mic Viz not with this oil change. I would prefer to do a complete drain as I mentioned.

[@theirthereandtheyre2947]

Can’t someone make a dipstick that threads into the fill plug hole?

[@HandyDoc]

I don’t honk you could make a dipstick for that hole. It’s really an overflow, as the fluid fills it spills out when the temps are correct. A dipstick couldn’t read horizontally.

[@edwardbarnosky2299]

I was told by dodge you don’t change the fluid 2016 dodge ram 1500

[@HandyDoc]

Your call Edward. Many automobiles say the fluids are “lifetime”. Call me old school but I feel better changing them.

[@joe7528]

The term " Lifetime " doesn't mean your Lifetime it means the Lifetime of the transmission

[@Kgio-2112]

Always use a speedy wrench to remove and install the pan bolts

[@HandyDoc]

ookkkkay???

[@kevinuzomah2151]

Mine has 210k miles. I’ve never changed it before, should I change it or leave it? The transmission fluid is dark looking though. Any advice

[@HandyDoc]

Kevin Uzomah Hey, that’s great. ZF says it is “maintenance free”. Are you going to keep the truck? If so I would do the change, if you are selling or trading, leave it alone.

[@jdouglas7516]

Just FYI - ZF DOES NOT SAY it's maintenance free... in fact just the opposite they DO recommend a change it's dodge/chrysler that's says you don't... There is a really good video about this exact thing and its pretty detailed... a little long but worth checking out kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGiwkouCrLyEn80

[@bradmegan4877]

I would change it and Don’t leave it for the next person to guess if it’s been done or not if it’s something that needs to be done just take care of it NOT well if your selling it or trading let’s just leave for the next guy isn’t cool because if you trade it in there not going to do crap to the truck before they resale it I’m out $5,000 bucks recently on a 08 Dodge Ram it was your responsibility don’t make it someone else’s at there expense but good video bad advice just my opinion thanks have a good one

[@wizzer171717]

Hello sir, how many liters you used + - ?

[@HandyDoc]

I think I mentioned about 4 1/2 qts.

[@Burgher1605]

Thanks for the video sir.

[@GRockBlues]

why did you need a new pan?

[@HandyDoc]

The filter is integrated in the pan

[@GRockBlues]

@@HandyDoc Gotcha...who engineered these like this?...crazy stuff to me...]Thanks for the awesome video

[@HandyDoc]

@@GRockBlues Go Figure! Manufacturers not helping out us DYI guys.

[@GRockBlues]

@@HandyDoc lol

[@latemodel24race]

Is it necessary to let trans shift into 2nd gear for 5 secs?

[@HandyDoc]

Hey John, not sure what you mean by 2nd gear? It’s recommended to do through P,R,D,N only.

[@Glock274Jimmy]

Yep. That is part of the fill procedure (along with D/ N / R) to take it up to 2nd gear and run for five seconds. Also to take it to 2,000 rpm for 5 seconds.

[@kenik2023]

Where did you find that fluid? How is it doing so far?

[@HandyDoc]

Keni K E Bay! And the Truck is doing great

[@dennisjackson6998]

If your veh is out of warranty Amsoil Signature Series ATF or Amsoil Torque Drive ATF are "far" superior ATFs and cost is a "lot" less. Like 1/2 the cost of the stealer brands if you buy online and are a preferred customer member. Do a little research and save $$$$.

[@kenik2023]

@@dennisjackson6998 Thanks. Where can I find Amsoil ATF?

[@dennisjackson6998]

@@kenik2023 Go to amsoil.com. -for the best price become a preferred customer. 8HP70 and BW44-44 transfer case use the blue label Fuel Efficient Signature Series ATL (currently $14.59 qt for preferred customers) found in transmission fluids. I use a 1gal garden pump sprayer (currently $9.99 on Amazon) and cut the spray tip off to get the fluid in.

[@kenik2023]

@@dennisjackson6998 Thanks again bro. I'm about to change the fluid in my Durango and I was looking for better fluid.

[@kingcobra7565]

thank you!

[@eddiejeselink2996]

Good video, thanks

[@Smiksterman]

I just ground down the rear fins.

[@DannyMayer-x5k]

I just drilled a 1/4 inch hole in the plastic pan to drained it a lot easier

[@HandyDoc]

Good idea. I just serviced the transmission on my Granddaughter’s 2008 Mazda 3 and it provides a drain plug. I don’t understand why manufacturers stopped doing this.

[@ballforlife360]

Thanks

[@danielperetto9722]

Boosted rocks