Replace the overdrive solenoid in the 68RFE automatic transmission, requiring transmission pan removal and fluid service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Overdrive solenoid (OD solenoid) × 1 — Use OEM Mopar specification
• Transmission pan gasket × 1 — 68RFE transmission pan gasket
• Transmission filter × 1 — 68RFE internal filter (recommended during service)
• Transmission drain plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification if equipped

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow transmission to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
3. Raise vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
4. Verify adequate clearance to access transmission pan from underneath
5. Clean exterior of transmission pan area to prevent contamination during disassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain transmission fluid
   Position large drain pan underneath transmission. If equipped with drain plug, remove drain plug and allow fluid to drain completely. If no drain plug is present, carefully loosen rear pan bolts first, then progressively loosen front bolts to tilt pan and drain fluid into pan. Keep face clear of draining fluid.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove transmission pan bolts
   Once fluid is drained, remove all remaining transmission pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern. There are typically 14-16 bolts securing the pan. Keep bolts organized for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Pan Bolts22 Nm (16 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove transmission pan and gasket
   Carefully lower transmission pan. Expect residual fluid to drain. Remove and discard old gasket from both pan and transmission case surfaces. Use plastic scraper to clean mating surfaces thoroughly without gouging aluminum. Clean surfaces with brake cleaner and lint-free rags.
4. 4

   Remove transmission filter
   Locate the transmission filter inside the pan area. Remove bolts or clips securing filter (typically 3-4 bolts). Pull filter straight down to remove. Inspect filter for metal debris or excessive clutch material. Discard old filter and clean filter mounting surface.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Locate overdrive solenoid
   The overdrive solenoid is located on the valve body solenoid pack, visible with pan removed. Identify the OD solenoid (typically labeled or refer to service manual diagram). Disconnect electrical connector by pressing release tab and pulling straight out.
6. 6

   Remove overdrive solenoid
   Remove the bolts securing the overdrive solenoid to the valve body (typically 2 bolts). Carefully pull solenoid straight out to avoid damaging valve body bores. Inspect O-rings on old solenoid for damage. Note orientation and position for installation.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Install new overdrive solenoid
   Verify new solenoid has O-rings properly installed and lightly lubricate with ATF+4. Insert solenoid straight into valve body bore, ensuring proper alignment. Install retaining bolts and torque to specification. Reconnect electrical connector until it clicks into place.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Install new transmission filter
   Position new filter into place, ensuring proper seating against valve body. Install filter retaining bolts and torque to specification. Verify filter is secure and properly seated.
   Torque spec

   Sensor Bolts15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install new pan gasket and transmission pan
   Position new gasket on transmission case (not on pan). Ensure gasket is properly aligned with all bolt holes. Carefully raise transmission pan into position, aligning with gasket and bolt holes. Thread all bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment.
   Torque spec

   Pan Bolts22 Nm (16 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Torque transmission pan bolts
    Torque all transmission pan bolts in a criss-cross pattern starting from the center and working outward. Make multiple passes, gradually increasing torque to final specification to ensure even gasket compression and prevent leaks.
    Torque spec

    Pan Bolts22 Nm (16 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall drain plug if equipped
    If transmission has drain plug, install new crush washer on drain plug. Thread drain plug by hand, then torque to specification. Do not overtighten.
    Torque spec

    Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Refill transmission fluid
    Lower vehicle to ground. Locate transmission dipstick/fill tube. Using funnel or fluid pump, add approximately 8 quarts of Mopar ATF+4 initially. Start engine and allow to idle in Park. Shift through all gear ranges, pausing 2-3 seconds in each. Return to Park and check fluid level with engine running and transmission at operating temperature. Add fluid as needed to reach proper level on dipstick.

Reassembly

1. Double-check all pan bolts are torqued to specification in proper pattern
2. Verify no tools or rags were left in work area
3. Check for leaks around pan gasket after initial test drive
4. Monitor transmission fluid level after first 50 miles and top off if needed

Verification

• Start engine and verify no transmission fluid leaks from pan area with engine running
• Test drive vehicle and verify smooth shifting through all gears including overdrive engagement
• Verify no transmission warning lights or fault codes are present using scan tool if available
• Check transmission fluid level with engine at operating temperature and adjust as needed
• Verify overdrive function operates correctly at highway speeds (typically engages above 40 mph)

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