How to adjust bands and change automatic transmission fluid

This is a demonstration of how I tightened the bands of my automatic transmission and changed the transmission fluid and filter. The vehicle is a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 with a 46RE transmission. This repair was done after a transfer case repair which required removal of the propeller shafts. With the front shaft out of the way, access to the front band adjustment screw was better than normal. It is possible to do this with the shaft in place, but access for demonstration is not as good. For details of how the propeller shaft is removed, see my other videos on repairing a Dodge transfer case oil leak.
Note that the details of how this is done, especially the torque settings and the number of rotations backward after ideal torque, are very specific to the 46RE transmission. Be sure the locknut is backed off enough that it doesn't bottom out when the adjustment screw is tightened. Before ever doing this type of procedure yourself, you should consult the dealers repair manual and verify the specific procedure in your car.
This is an amateur demonstration done for entertainment purposes only. The information offered here is given in good faith but with no guarantees of accuracy or safety. Any misadventure you encounter if you decide to do maintenance on your own vehicle is your responsibility.
Short clip of music midway through is royalty free music "The Messenger", from KZbin creation tools, author unknown. Thunderclap sound used under Creative Commons 3.0 license, done by RHumphries at freesound.org/people/RHumphries/

[@jameshodge4559]

I have an issue with my transmission band that controls reverse, and low gears and this video has helped out tremendously in guiding me to fix my truck, thank you for being so detailed! Awesome work!👍🏼

[@shawnrossignol111]

Fantastic video, thanks for posting. I own a 2001 Ram 1500, same transmission. It's good to know there are folks like yourself posting these DIY videos for those of use who prefer to work on our own vehicles. Thanks again, and please keep the Gen II Ram videos coming.

[@raybinker9472]

Great video, As a technician and shop owner that built race engines and vehicle restorations from the frame up for over 14 years its refreshing to see good work and documentation. My customers always got a CD of their works being done plus hundreds of HD pics with their service or any work performed. No extra charge, but it was the best CYA too! but in 14 years I NEVER had one come back due to bad or improper work, The job was done right the first time every time and additional things were always maintained as preventative maintenance to help them and me. I closed my shop to go into LE and due to an on the job injury I'm now terminally ill and disabled, I miss wrenching. Keep up the good work!

[@SchrodingersBox]

Disappointed you didnt go through the math formula for calculating the torque! It would the first time i ever saw a practical application of a cosine! Great video- I never seen this done before.

[@spelunkerd]

Ha, ha, that's funny! To tell you the truth, I did spend a few minutes reviewing that topic, one that has built up decades of dust. To my surprise I have found that some of the very popular sites here on youtube are math channels, like ViHart and Numberphile. I never would have guessed that there are so many math geeks here on the net (grin).

[@michaelwald7080]

Thank you for the video, I just got done rebuilding the 46re transmission on my 99 ram. ATF levels were something I didn't want to mess up, your videos have been a big help! Thanks, Mike

[@JWG-iy5ow]

9

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, Terry. As far as I know, this is the first detailed band tightening video done on the vehicle that I've found. Surely more will follow.

[@curteous1]

Great video, camera work was excellent as well as your explanations. No DIY project is complete until you have to manufacture a homemade tool. Thanks for sharing!

[@jameskingdon6236]

I greatly appreciate you having made this video. I've been having a couple of issues with my '99 ram 1500 and transmission. I'm going to be doing a full fluid change as you did, replacing filter and everything as well. Seeing such a clear video with an understandable explination has greatly helped me visualize what I will be getting into.

[@spelunkerd]

I'm glad it helped, thanks for the feedback. Unfortunately changing fluid for transmission problems rarely helps, and occasionally less viscous new fluid can ironically promote slipping. However if bands are out of adjustment I suppose it is possible that tighter bands within spec might get it back on track. There aren't many easily fixable transmission problems. Occasionally speed sensors go bad and it's possible to have a shift solenoid fail. I wish I could help people who visit here more than I can....

[@Daitaigenjitsu]

Very informative video with a very knowledgeable presenter. Thank you sir! If only everyone who posted tutorials knew their subjects this well.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks!

[@rickywright2063]

this was a great video at a great time . im a back yard mechanic or something like that . any way my so just finished buying his own car . it was a 1999 dodge durango cus his girlfriend like it huh?? every thimg you showes us online was just what his durango needed done. so , with your help and expert guidence . my son and his girl are off to the rodeo and it runs great . you were a lifesaver so thank you sir from a thankful dad. thank you

[@nemethjames1]

I already knew all this and learned nothing from the video, having said that I did watch the whole thing since I was bored and if you are unfimilar with transmission oil changes and band adjustments this is a GREAT video to watch. Good job! People that take time to do videos like this makes work a lot easier for anyone and takes out all the guess work!

[@spelunkerd]

+James Nemeth Thanks, it's nice to see experienced techs drop by once in a while.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks for your input, it's nice to see a pro stopping by.

[@jessesinclair4491]

concisely explained by a rather knowledgeable person who pays attention to details most ordinary folk would not.

[@spelunkerd]

What a kind remark, thank you!

[@eddiesunday123]

With all the details you have placed in this video I feel much more confident in trying to change my own transmission fluid and now I know how to tighten the band. Thanks a million for the demo.

[@spelunkerd]

Thank you for the feedback! Just a little word of caution. It's _not possible_ to learn something thoroughly without making mistakes. Sometimes those mistakes can be painful, embarrassing, and expensive. For example if you crossthread a bolt you need to know how to get yourself out of trouble, or sheepishly take it in to somebody who can help. I have found learning about auto repair to be rewarding, but more in an intellectual way than financially. When you try something for the first time, you need to accept and be prepared for stuff to go wrong (grin).

[@mrdiyguy123]

What a great video. I enjoyed your explanation of how to calculate the effective torque of your wrench coupled with the extension. Also, the easy explanation of band adjustment was pretty straightforward. Thanks. I subscribed!

[@marklansaw7756]

mr diyguy123

[@angelaracino6236]

Thank you sir for the detailed video on adjusting the bands, I followed your procedure having no previous problems with the transmission. I have noticed better shifting in response to following your procedures, I would like to thank you for your detailed video, it has helped me greatly. I enjoy your videos and how very accurate and pithy they are. Thank you kindly God bless you and your family

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, you made my day!

[@lunchbox2393]

I like how you made a specialty for your torque Wrench. Another successful homemade specialty tool. Great job!

[@deathalishous]

Dude your videos are awesome, very descriptive with proper terminology, great work. Thanks for the proper instructions, keep it up

[@h1-trans654]

I really liked how you did this because I know how hard this can be. Thank you for showig us how you dealt with the square bolt that was brilliant.

[@spelunkerd]

What a kind remark, thank you!

[@spelunkerd]

Hey, I'm glad you stopped by. Chrysler presently recommend ATF+4, in both the transfer case and transmission. ATF+4 is compatible with older fluids (they used to recommend ATF+3) so you don't need to worry about mixing. Thanks for visiting.

[@robertbrady8756]

I have a 46re in my 1999 dodge and today I had a trans. Cooling line brake and had to drive the truck about 12mlies on the freeway then a long hill to get it home. Got the cooling line fixed now and going to adjust the band's per what you said. Thank you for telling me how to do it, change the trans fliter too.

[@briansmobile1]

I love the tool you made at 8:05! That's brilliant, inexpensive, effective AND expedient. Sage advice on keeping it in a place you can find it too. I have a shallow drawer in my tool box labelled "odd sockets." There you'll find specialty tools, keys, and sockets like that. Great video!

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, Brian! I know, I've seen your drawer on a prior video you did, it's inspiring.

[@pristinelawnscapes8380]

Ha! A case of (sage advise)^2! Not only should specialty tools be safely stored, but you gave a great example of how to go about doing that! I'm getting ready to upgrade to a larger, more comprehensive toolbox, and the FIRST label will be "specialty sockets & such." I would say you cannot underestimate the importance of being organized for these jobs. The time we spend relative to cost is really the tradeoff DIYers make, and having an organized process really can make that tradeoff worthwhile!

[@ryanhughes163]

spelunkerd was

[@owenyusuf7806]

sorry to be so off topic but does any of you know a way to get back into an instagram account? I was dumb forgot my account password. I would love any help you can offer me.

[@nehemiahkylan3579]

@Owen Yusuf Instablaster =)

[@williammay2349]

Well, four years after this video was made and it's still a godsend! Recently bought a nastily used 2001 Dakota 2wd with 46RE. Having to replace and adjust most everything. This showed what was needed (and the issues I may endure). Mine shifts up but refuses to (automatically) downshift at stops and I imagine the bands have not been adjusted since...well 2001. As we say here in Alabama, I'm going whole hog on it with sensor, solenoid, bands, etc. Enjoyed your video and the candor. Just subscribed and will search your other videos. Thank you.

[@sftworange6456]

Well 8 years after this video was made 4 years since your comment😂 rare chance you will reply but did that happen to fix the misshifts?

[@garagedays4677]

Your video is extremely helpful and accurate. You dont bullshit. You get to the point. You keep putting videos up. I was very impressed. You're frontline here. Keep em coming!

[@darrylsizemore7705]

So glad to find your video. Just bought a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 with transmission problems. You can drive it for about 10-15 minutes before transmission goes out. I am first going to try your technique in tightening the bands and go from there. I appreciate your help.

[@juniormena5101]

Hello Sir. Did u ever fix your transmission.? My does the same thing same truck

[@SsgtDoGMan100]

all of your videos are a big help man you tell us all the info as if your reading it straight from the service manual :) keep making vids man there great

[@txroadhouse1]

Excellent video... Thank you for sharing... The proper way to check and add fluid is worth viewing it in itself. Thanks Again!

[@MysticMetals92]

You remind me of a machinist. So precise and knowledgeable. Awesome job

[@3geozac]

To spelunkerd, Thank You! I now have 2 2001 Dodge Ram's that need band adjustments and 1 that has a bad A/C magnet in the compressor. Thanks for the insight on how to tackle these problems. I am a fairly decent home mechanic and because of guy's like you, getting better and saving money everyday. Thanks on more time!

[@spelunkerd]

You're welcome, thank you for taking the time to watch these humble videos.

[@billcat1840]

I installed a transgo kit in my 46re. It really addresses some of those issues. The tech lines are great too. I wasn't completely satisfied with 1-2 shift, they walked me through the process to get the neck snapping shift I wanted.

[@stevendillon2545]

Did you have issues before replacement trying to figure out if i need to re pull my pan and do an adjustment after replacing my governor solenoid it ran great for a week good shifts now bacl to how ot was when i pulled the code for the solenoid needing replaced. Just wanting to rev high rpm and not shift up right. Thinking i should habe replaced the tranducer as well now im stuck guessing what the pressure issue because the code was for the governor solenoid which is brand new.

[@stanthology]

Remember to remove the check valve in the oil cooler line to the cooler in the radiator. It will eventually plug up with dirt from the trans and your vehicle will pop out of overdrive. From overheating. Found that on a forum. Check valve right by the front of the oil pan on the passenger side. It looks like an oversized flare fitting.

[@ibberman]

Does that apply to a 93 jeep Cherokee XJ as well ??

[@williamnantz5604]

Thorough yet concise. Well done, Sir.

[@spelunkerd]

Thank you, and season's greetings!

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@LonnyMacDougall]

Very easy to follow, great, steady camera work and lighting, solid commentary, Thank you. Watching this has convinced me to grab a cheap plastic painter's drop cloth before I start to avoid the inevitable "pan spill" upon removal. The Torque calculations were impressive. Not your average "back yard" protocol.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks.

[@oabus]

Excellent video. I am,so glad that I found you.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks!

[@laurencewoods7767]

Thank you you taught me how to service my vehicle in a easy explainable way keep up the awesome work

[@jenaiosuilleabhain1361]

I really appreciate your clarity!

[@rizemancustomsllc]

gotta love the arc in the alternator at the end of the video.. great job. great teaching personality

[@spelunkerd]

I knew somebody would notice, just the right angle to see the brushes making contact, ha ha. Although I though that alternator was on it's last legs, it's still working today. Thanks for the encouraging feedback.

[@fomoco300k]

Have been waiting excitedly for this video. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.

[@jessetedder5064]

Great video as always, keep up the good work. These tutorials are always appreciated.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks!

[@billhamilton2366]

Excellent video.. Great tips on refilling and checking fluid levels. I have a 2003 Dodge ram 2500 that I am about to install a shift kit in clean the valve body and generally check the health of the transmission.I have 125 K miles on the truck and expect maintenance is due. I also want to crisp things up before I install a heavy camper in the box. For the past year I have noticed a significant drain down from the torque converter. I am trying not to have to pull the tranny. Thanks again. Good job.Capt. Billy

[@youtubemaster5804]

Well I have to say , you do a great job explaining all the minor details and have educated me with better knowledge of my transmission. Thank you for being professional about it . So many people that try to help with their videos but they seem to go too quickly or have bad lighting or a bad video itself and I dont seem to understand half of what they say. Although I do appreciate them trying to help. Keep up the good work and Thank You for your Help

[@spelunkerd]

Oh, what a kind remark. Thank you.

[@MrAmperkins]

Thank you for showing me this i have been having issues with a 47re at work. Even though it is slightly different in the specs the layout is almost exact but this just made life and work so much easier.

[@spelunkerd]

I"m glad it helped, thanks for the feedback.

[@stuzman52]

You've got my thumbs up Steve for doing a tool review on your manual fluid extractor as I would like to see it in action. There has been many cases with me where the tool that you describe would have come in handy.

[@spelunkerd]

What a kind remark, Richard. Thanks!

[@andrameda1]

Great teacher enjoyed very much your presentation. Loved how you did the math with inch lbs, foot lbs and the torques convertion regarding band adjustments angels.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, Bob. Dave

[@andrameda1]

Dave, you think like an engineer, appreciative and grateful. I was a certified mechanic in the 70's, enjoyed fixing cars for the working class, friends and elderly. i am resuming the art and craft of auto repairs by studying the electronics, sensors, diagnostic computers solenoids circuits, its all fun learning. I thank you for enhancing my the merits of knowledge.

[@spelunkerd]

I appreciate the sub, Bob. There are lots of guys like you and me who visit here, it's a fun place to hang out. Believe me, we are all learning something, ha ha.

[@andrameda1]

learning and discovery is a thrill, thanks for the validation peace.

[@robmartin9735]

Excellent presentation showing how to change the oil and Adjuster bands on the Dodge transmission thank you very much!

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks!

[@joeteejoetee]

Thanks for making this DETAILED video! It saved me a lot of time and money. Warning to others: Every Red-Dot of transmission fluid you see IS GOING TO drip on you randomly for hours ! = a great time to have a beer and sleep on completing the job tomorrow...

[@spelunkerd]

Mine was in pretty good shape, but I don't expect to need to go there again soon. So I threw it out and used the new one. I almost never go into the pan without changing the filter so it would probably sit around with the other stuff I hang onto forever, (grin). Thank you for adding to the thread here.

[@yepper1165]

It's a cool coincidence that at 10:05-10:15 you could see the sparking going on in the alternator. Neat shot! Great video over all. Thanks for making it!

[@spelunkerd]

Yeah, I wondered if I should change brushes when I saw that. Even today, that same alternator is going strong.

[@chriswolfe3768]

always helpful, I've been having issues with my 06 trans and the belts.

[@dominicblanchard1398]

Very clear video, thanks for the info. Planning on replacing the pressure censor and the governor solenoid so watching everything I can on the inside of the transmission pan.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks. Good luck!

[@JeffLifeInReview]

Been years since I saw this video. I still think you are one of the best explainers on KZbin. Thoughtful and concise every time!

[@jaywells6396]

spelunkerd, you are one of the best youtube presenters I have watched. Great explanations and no fiddling with the camera which ruins so many videos.

[@spelunkerd]

What a kind remark, thanks!

[@ronhelmer8074]

Very nice video. Very. Am retired and turned to drag racing as hobby with son (talented mechanic) and Happened upon your video while searching for more knowledge on adjusting my racing power glide reverse band after 50 passes. Was very much taken with your illustration and calculating effective torque applied vs indicated when using extensions. :) very well said and illustrated ... always wondered why son cautioned me when using extensions, swivels, etc and torque wrenches :).

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks for the kind notes of encouragement, Ron. Nice to meet you. Dave

[@55110johnny]

Very well informed video! Thank you!!

[@stuzman52]

Nice job Dave! Big thumbs up on your detailed work.

[@roggiedale]

Job well done. This is without a doubt the best video I've seen on this adjustment. You have helped us greatly on this job as well as other transmission repairs. Thank You!

[@spelunkerd]

+roggiedale Thanks, man.

[@dwightadams7782]

Really explained things well. After watching the video you should have no trouble adjusting your bands in a 46re trans

[@noorflooring9409]

Great educative video. Thank you

[@RICKAFIX]

Excellent video spelunkerd I always learn something new watching your videos. you have a lot of wisdom in you thanks

[@spelunkerd]

Hey man, thanks. Your feedback means a lot.

[@AdamJohnsonJesusservent]

Love you Information just bought a 99 dodge truck with shifting problems I did everything you explained.and the trucks shifts perfect Thank you for taking the time to make these videos.

[@spelunkerd]

Great story, Adam. I'm glad it helped!

[@jerryviall6494]

Very detailed and a flair to the video with specialty tools. Thanks.

[@cw824]

Very helpful. You have to be the smartest mechanic I have ever watched! Keep making videos, every mechanic will learn from you.

[@spelunkerd]

What a kind remark, thank you.

[@nysbrad]

To begin with Thank You for taking the time to make these video's , To a shade tree mechanic who has the tools but not the manuals or know how.

[@spelunkerd]

+Brad Lines Thanks, man. For manuals consider spending $45 for a 5 year subscription to the dealers manual. I use Alldatadiy, but I believe Mitchell offer a similar product. Both offer up to date TSB's, which put them over the top compared to the old Haynes manual paper option. A subscription pays for itself with one repair, and it gives you more confidence that you have details that the manufacturer considers important enough to make available to their technicians.

[@WhiteWhite60]

I have a Haynes online subscription for my 97 Dodge Ram 1500. I'm assuming the Haynes manual is not the "dealers manual" - that there is a difference. Is Alldatadyi, then, a dealers manual? I've screwed-up the courage to adjust the bands - but I would like to have all the tools and manuals and KZbin videos, and brains before I lay a wrench to a bolt...

[@spelunkerd]

For a couple of decades I used the Haynes paper manuals, and they were good reviews by general mechanics not employed by the manufacturer. Haynes was a good reference for the DIY mechanic, it showed good general technique. A lot of the repairs were actually done by general mechanics employed by Haynes, and they described what they found. Haynes didn't just copy the dealers manual, they did work themselves, and I'm not even sure if they had all the dealers documents. Certainly the electrical diagrams lacked some detail. My impression of Haynes was generally good, though I haven't used Haynes in about 20 years. When the OEM manual originally came out for my '98 Ram I bought it ($250 at that time). That's probably the last paper manual I'll ever buy. In the second decade I wanted access to Technical Service Bulletins for my Ram, which of course aren't in the original paper manual. So, I got Alldata, which is at least 90% accurate compared to the original paper manual, mostly pages are copied word for word, with identical diagrams. Manufacturers are required to get information out there, and I assume they don't mind the possible copyright issues. I also have a subscription to Mitchell for our Subaru, and it seems good as well, not much to compare. Both have slightly weak diagrams because of pixelation and lack of detail compared to paper. Overall I would say the cost for a 5 year subscription with Alldata or Mitchell is about the same as an old style Haynes manual, and much more accurate and detailed. Still, they may not have all the detail you want if you're going to tackle a transmission overhaul. I don't know anything about the Haynes product online. Good luck!

[@garymaddux2000]

This really did help me alot. I had no clue on how to do this on my 97 1500 5.9l. With the 33" tires I'm running now I needed to get it done soon so I don't ruin my tranny. Thank you bud :)

[@spelunkerd]

You're welcome, I appreciate your feedback!

[@jimlayhey7378]

Thank you! Your detail and explanation is superb.

[@spelunkerd]

You're welcome, I'm glad it helped.

[@utuber2940]

I bought an aluminum drain pan from Jegs for my 01 ram holds 4 extra quarts and "has" a drain plug!!!!! So easy......

[@safetyfirstintexas]

Amazon has a pan that fits a 42 re from a Durango . It has a pan drain plug. $37

[@AlbertoCoco4494]

Thank you for the instructions and the opportunity to see your dogs in the background.

[@spelunkerd]

Not quite Briansmobile1 with the pretty girls hanging around, but from my perspective my dogs are my pretty girls. Thank you for watching!

[@spelunkerd]

***** I think the torque converter sucks up fluid when it starts to spin which explains why fluid level drops when the engine is running. Fluid also flows through the oil cooler but I think the cooler tubing is so full of fluid that you don't get enough air bubbles in it to allow it to siphon back when the engine is off (unless oil level is too low or if you've opened the system to work on it. It has always surprised me how much fluid level varies, which I guess explains why they recommend checking levels with engine running and temp at operating range. Presumably it is tricky to graduate the dipstick for engine cold, engine off because that reflux back into the trans when off can vary a lot depending on peripheral devices. Thanks for your thoughtful remark!

[@spelunkerd]

***** The more I learned about torque converters, the more complicated they seemed. Considering it's old technology, there is not much variance between manufacturers at least in terms of basic design. Ericthecarguy did a nice introductory video, and I found an excellent pdf by Toyota that showed better detail. But I'd really like a cartoon video showing how fluid flows at different speeds -- lamellar flow at idle is surprisingly different than at highway speed. The torque converter is almost completely full of ATF when running. Fluid does remain in the torque converter with engine off, but the portion that siphons back is variable and a little unpredictable. Cheers!

[@chipdeg]

Very helpful show and tell. Nice to know the guts of an automatic transmission. Keep up the good work!

[@spelunkerd]

Thankyou.

[@jonathanbrady3820]

Just stumbled across your videos. Very informative and even though a titled as a DIY very professional attitude about how you do the work. Thanks. Looking forward to watching more.

[@spelunkerd]

+jonathan brady Thanks, man. I haven't done many videos lately but I hope to get back into it one day. Maybe I'll post a few small diesel videos, gotta love those little engines.

[@DaYeenQueen]

Thanks for posting this, i just bought one of these and im replacing the filters and fluid because it hasent been done in a few years. The fluid is still red and dose not smell burnt and is not low but with the 203xxx miles on the truck i dont want to take a chance. It's had it's fluid and filter changed at every service interval reccomended by Chrysler and i believe its time. Still shifts like new... And i prefer it stay like that.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, good luck!

[@greygoosemafia]

spelunkerd you're great! awesome vids. you have been extremely helpful, willing to go out of your way to help. and you're vids are extremely detailed and you get back to comments. thanks for all your hard work man. keep it you :)

[@austinmucciante3108]

Great video Sir. Thought I might add something regarding making your own 8 millimeter square drive socket. For those who do not have access to a welder, an old 8 mil socket can be used by clamping it down on its side or in a vise and carefully removing two flats with a grinder or Dremel tool. Go slow and remove a little bit at a time.Don't use an old "taiwan" socket as they are very brittle. Buy one at the hardware store if need be. I've been a Chrysler employee for over 28 years and would like to thank you for buying Chrysler and helping others who have also. Best regards!

[@spelunkerd]

Austin M Thanks for stopping by!

[@madcook1936]

spelunkerd I wish this was the problem with my truck I have a 2001 and it's in the shop now and has been for a week second gear is gone had a rebuilt one put in and first is out in it when it gets fixed I'm selling it asap

[@johnkrawczyk401]

Excellent video. I have an 01 ram getting ready to do this maintenance . Great tip about screwing on gasket before hand to stabilize it👍

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks!

[@WhiteWhite60]

I have a '97 Dodge Ram 1500 5.2L. At 95,000 miles, the transmission began to slip - more often than not, it will not go to over-drive. I'm considering replacing the pressure solenoid myself - but, adjusting the bands with the proper torque is beyond my ability to do it properly. I have a good mechanic - but, I'll want assurances that he'll be able to torque to the correct specs. Great video - Thanks.

[@spelunkerd]

If you read through the comments here, you'll read that some professionals do not use a torque wrench when they adjust bands, and some even quoted incorrect specs for this vehicle. When I did the procedure I noticed that there is a 'hard stop' to band tightening, which means that the final position of that adjustment screw would be little different even with some variance in applied torque. So, I'll go out on a limb to say I don't think applied torque makes as much difference as the dealers manual may imply. I showed how to do this procedure to factory specs, but an experienced pro may be able to run through torquing bands more quickly. Most of us in the general mechanics world are wary of transmissions, in part because if you misplace one hydraulic ball it could be a nightmare finding the error. I think band adjustment is pretty far down on the list of things that can seriously go wrong. Good luck!

[@shadowstone1972]

Thank you very much this is a very well explained process!

[@D3aTH8r1N63r]

Very detailed on how to tighten bands.... is it the same secs on a 42RE?

[@ramdodgetruck1177]

Good Video. I've always been able to find a 12 point socket that will fit on a square nut or bolt. Dig thru your wrenches and you're sure to find on.

[@spelunkerd]

Good idea, worth considering. Thanks for following, Dave

[@TheEdudo]

a few days ago i also change the filter and atf on a second hand pick up, it was my first one, all my life i drove manual transmissions, OH boy what a mess !! it does not have a dipstick, thankfully it has a drain plug, but when i took of the filter ... a second wave of atf right to my arms and clothes. took me a whole day

[@spelunkerd]

Yeah, not easy. Without a dipstick there are other issues, not the least of which is getting the temperature right before measuring, to be sure your new fluid is at the right level. Thanks for stopping by!

[@knighthawk86855]

On a 97 3.9L V6 Dakota I will be replacing the governor pressure sensor and sel....along with the trans fluid ATF+4....filter and gasket and all the proper adjustments This weekend...Wish me luck .... awesome video!!!

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, and good luck, man!

[@Navin.R.Johnson]

Well done, esp covering the oil checking procedures.

[@spelunkerd]

You're welcome, thanks for the feedback.

[@stuzman52]

Yes, a little detail always help, especially when there is nothing out there as you mentioned. That's why I'm doing a little detail stuff on the transmission range sensor for the Suzuki that I'm working on now. I don't see anything out there for that either. So, I'm sure that your video and hopefully mine can help folks out there.

[@andyslawnsheretoserveyou2041]

Thank you sir for making this video it was very helpful truck is up and running now thank you once again💯👍👍💯

[@scotgarrison2475]

I think that you did a great and very accurate job.Thanks

[@nickhammons6862]

That was an excellent video they ought to only allow videos on this the coincide with the way yours was done some people just don't explain shit right yours was perfect very good camera I wish KZbin would pull up videos of this nature every time I have to go through massive amounts of videos and waste of time before I find one with this quality of information

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, Bryan. It's fun to make tools, but often it means the deadline for getting a job done has to be extended. Cheers! Dave

[@mrLorzamp]

Goodmorning, thanks for the time you spent on this video. do you know if the procedure is the same for 47Re models?

[@DirTyOhGee]

Great and helpful video! Also nice truck! I just picked up a 96 5.9 Cummings and Im going to be changing out most of the fluids and get er ready to be one of our work truck! Stoked to see your still making cool videos.

[@spelunkerd]

Thanks, man. I love this truck, although I'm getting big time rust at the bottom of both doors.

[@turbodiesel4709]

Just wanted to say, good video bud. As for your truck rusting away... Unfortunately, that's normal. Haven't seen a Dodge truck that runs in winter where roads are treated with CaCl and rock salt that has a clean body. The bodies rot on all modern vehicles something terrible, and all you can do is wash the vehicle regularly all winter long to try to keep the corrosives off the vehicle. It's not really possible or practical for most people. Not to mention, it can be terribly expensive and time consuming if you wash it correctly. Thus, most people don't bother. I recently bought a 2001 Ram V-10 4x4 and the entire body is pretty well shot. I mean all 4 doors are flapping in the breeze at the bottoms, the wheel wells are rotted out at all 4 wheels, and the rocker panels and front cab mounts are rotting and falling apart. Basically, the truck needs a complete body replacement or complete body overhaul. Is it worth doing? Probably not. Will I do it anyhow? I just might. Haven't decided yet. Sadly, buying a "newer" truck isn't even remotely in my budget, and won't be any time soon.

[@shaggyduder]

Mopar sells a drain plug for the pan, I installed one on mine and oil change is easy pesy now. also I added added 2 more magnets to my pan, as not all the oil comes in contact with just the one magnet. I always add Lucas transmission additive as well because it keeps the seals and belts from wearing untimely.

[@TheHarleyross]

That weld was solid work

[@chvydrptop]

Amazing video especially the part about calculating the deflection. I have never seen that sort of torque wrench looks expensive, lol.

[@spelunkerd]

The bar type can be better or worse than the clicker style wrench, less convenient for sure. This wrench is more accurate for small torque, but in this application I believe there is wide tolerance in what is acceptable torque. The method shown is as described in the dealers manual, however I believe professionals who work on these every day can get away without exacting torque on those adjustment screws. Thanks for watching!

[@n1ghtblur]

Hey, it's me again... Haha. So while installing that shift kit I was talking about, I noticed my front band was pretty much at the end of its life... And I've been driving it a month since installing the shift kit with some kind of interesting shifting between 1-2 gear (adjusting the already nearly gone band probably made it a lot worse honestly). I had been planning on rebuilding it once I noticed the front band being so worn. My plan was to drive it until spring break, then perform the rebuild. Well, I almost made it. Next week was gonna be the last week I drove it before pulling the whole transmission and doing the rebuild. Yesterday, it started slipping in reverse. I suspect my rear servo gave out (very common and unrelated to the shift kit)... After slipping in the morning, when I got home, I discovered upon stopping in the road and testing, I had lost all power in reverse. No grip, all slip. The rear band probably burned up and ruined the rear drum too. Not my fault! Lol. So, story aside, I have all the parts I need sitting up in my room right now and I'm prepared to pull the transmission. Do you know the best way to loosen the bolts on the bell housing, and what size they are? Any tips for extensions? Also, the exhaust Y-pipe/cat (namely, the y pipe to exhaust manifold bolts?), trans cross member, etc? I'm gonna have a lot of fun... I have two whole weeks to get this done and I want to start as early as possible so I have time to get any extra parts I might need shipped. Thanks, Sam

[@spelunkerd]

Good luck, Sam. I don't think I can help you at this point, since you're planning a job I've never done before. You should think about doing a video, it would be popular here on youtube!

[@n1ghtblur]

You're right! I might attempt that. Any tips on keeping the camera from getting covered in ATF? Ha.

[@jmjpowerjoule]

Samuel Thomas I happen to have a tip about holding the camera..... -If your married, see if your wife could hold it for you and practice together how you will film everything. Otherwise, ask any other second person to help with the camera.

[@BrieBrowne]

Thankyou for sharing this informational video ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@LoganLawhead]

Thanks! This was super helpful.

[@kieranmclaury]

Great video. Liked, subscribed and I hope you'll keep putting out how-tos for the 2nd gen Dodge Ram 1500s!

[@tspark1071]

I liked it. thanks

[@spelunkerd]

I've got one of those vacuum extractors, but I find it annoying when there is a poor fit at the bleeder causing bubbles. A positive pressure bleeder would be better, but with no standardization of cap size you need a big number of caps. At the end of the day, I've gone back to bleeding with two people like we did decades ago. Thanks for watching, Steve!

[@SkyLinMegas]

Excellent .. thank you for the help.