Replace or adjust the transmission shift linkage connecting the gear selector to the transmission on a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins Diesel and 4WD.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission shift linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Linkage bushings × 2 — Typically included with linkage assembly
• Shift cable grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Chock rear wheels securely
3. Verify transmission is in PARK position
4. Raise front of vehicle and support on jack stands at frame rails
5. Remove front skid plate if equipped (requires 13mm socket)
6. Spray all linkage connection points with penetrating oil and allow to soak 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Access shift linkage from below
   Position yourself under the driver's side of the vehicle. Locate the shift linkage running from the transmission (passenger side) across to the driver's side where it connects to the column shifter mechanism. The linkage consists of rods and pivot points with plastic bushings.
2. 2

   Disconnect linkage at transmission
   Locate the shift cable connection at the transmission shift lever on the driver's side of the transmission. Use needle nose pliers to remove the retaining clip securing the cable end to the transmission lever ball stud. Carefully pry the cable end off the ball stud using a flathead screwdriver if needed. Note the orientation of all components for reassembly.
   ⚠Do not force cable end off ball stud as this can damage the plastic socket. Work it off gently while rotating
3. 3

   Remove linkage mounting hardware
   Locate the linkage mounting points along the frame rail and crossmember. Remove the mounting bolts securing any brackets or support points using the appropriate socket. Keep track of bolt locations as different positions may use different torque specifications.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts82 Nm (61 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect linkage at column shifter
   Working from inside the cab if necessary for better access, locate where the shift linkage connects to the column shifter mechanism under the dashboard. Remove the pivot bolt securing the linkage to the column shifter arm using a 10mm socket. Remove any retaining clips and separate the linkage from the shifter mechanism.
   Torque spec

   Pivot Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove shift linkage assembly
   Carefully work the shift linkage assembly out from under the vehicle, noting the routing path through any frame brackets or guides. If the linkage passes through a firewall grommet, carefully work it free. Inspect the old linkage for worn bushings, bent rods, or damaged connection points to identify failure points.
6. 6

   Prepare new linkage assembly
   Compare new linkage assembly to old unit to verify correct part. Install new bushings at all pivot points if not pre-installed. Apply a light coat of white lithium grease to all pivot points and ball studs to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear. If reusing linkage, replace all worn bushings and inspect for straightness.
7. 7

   Install linkage assembly
   Route the new or serviced linkage assembly into position following the same path as the original. Ensure the linkage passes through any frame brackets and the firewall grommet (if equipped) correctly. The linkage should have a clear path without binding or interference from other components.
8. 8

   Connect linkage at column shifter
   Align the linkage with the column shifter arm connection point. Install the pivot bolt and secure, but do not fully tighten yet to allow for final adjustment. Ensure any retaining clips are properly installed.
   Torque spec

   Pivot Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install mounting brackets and hardware
   Install all mounting brackets and support hardware along the linkage route. Start all bolts by hand first, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the linkage is properly supported and aligned before final tightening.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts82 Nm (61 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect linkage at transmission
    Verify the transmission lever is in the PARK position (lever fully forward). Snap the cable end onto the transmission lever ball stud, ensuring it seats completely. Install the retaining clip to secure the connection. Verify the connection is secure by attempting to pull the cable end off the ball stud.
11. 11

    Adjust shift linkage
    With the transmission in PARK and the column shifter in PARK, verify alignment. The linkage should have minimal free play. If adjustment is needed, loosen the pivot bolt at the column shifter connection slightly, position the shifter firmly in PARK, ensure the transmission lever is in PARK, then torque the pivot bolt to specification. Test shifter movement through all gear positions from inside the cab to verify smooth operation without binding.
    Torque spec

    Pivot Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Final inspection and testing
    Check all connection points are secure and torqued properly. Verify the linkage has adequate clearance from exhaust, driveshaft, and frame components throughout its range of motion. Reinstall front skid plate if equipped. Lower vehicle from jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall front skid plate using 13mm bolts if previously removed
2. Verify all mounting hardware is torqued to specification
3. Ensure no tools or parts are left under vehicle before lowering

Verification

• With engine off and parking brake engaged, shift through all gear positions (P-R-N-D-2-1) and verify smooth engagement with distinct detents at each position
• Verify the gear indicator on the dash matches the actual shifter position in all gears
• In PARK position, verify the key can be removed from the ignition and the shifter cannot be moved without depressing the brake pedal
• Start the engine (foot on brake) and verify it only starts in PARK and NEUTRAL positions
• With engine running, shift through all gears and verify transmission engages correctly with no delay or harsh engagement
• Verify reverse lights illuminate when shifted into REVERSE
• Test drive vehicle and confirm all forward gears engage properly and downshifts occur at appropriate times

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