Replace the torque converter clutch solenoid in the 68RFE transmission by dropping the transmission pan, replacing the solenoid pack, and refilling with ATF+4.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Torque converter clutch solenoid pack assembly × 1 — 68RFE solenoid pack with TCC solenoid
• Transmission pan gasket × 1 — 68RFE transmission pan gasket
• Transmission filter × 1 — 68RFE internal filter
• Transmission drain plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Allow transmission to cool completely (at least 2 hours after operation)
3. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
4. Remove skid plates or underbody panels that obstruct access to transmission pan
5. Place large drain pan under transmission pan
6. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental starting

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain transmission fluid
   If equipped with drain plug, remove drain plug from transmission pan using appropriate socket. Allow fluid to drain completely into drain pan. If no drain plug is present, carefully loosen all pan bolts 2-3 turns, then loosen one corner further to allow fluid to drain. Control the flow by adjusting how far the corner is loosened. Expect approximately 6-8 quarts to drain initially.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove transmission pan
   Once fluid has drained, remove all transmission pan bolts completely. Note that bolts may be different lengths; keep track of their positions. Carefully lower the pan, being prepared for additional fluid spillage (approximately 1-2 quarts remains in pan). Remove pan and set aside. Be cautious as edges may be sharp.
   Torque spec

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

   Inspect and remove filter
   Inspect the transmission pan for metal debris, clutch material, or excessive sludge. Presence of significant debris indicates internal transmission damage requiring further inspection. Remove the transmission filter by unbolting or unclipping (depending on design). The 68RFE filter is typically held by bolts. Inspect filter for debris and damage.
4. 4

   Access solenoid pack
   With the pan removed, locate the solenoid pack assembly on the valve body. The torque converter clutch solenoid is integrated into the solenoid pack on the 68RFE transmission. Disconnect the internal wiring harness connectors from the solenoid pack. Note connector orientation and any locking tabs. Clean the area around the solenoid pack to prevent debris from entering the valve body.
5. 5

   Remove solenoid pack assembly
   Remove the bolts securing the solenoid pack to the valve body. There are typically 6-8 bolts holding the pack. Keep bolts organized as they may be different lengths. Carefully pull the solenoid pack straight down and away from the valve body. Do not tilt or twist as this may damage sealing surfaces or internal valve body components. Inspect the gasket surface on the valve body for damage.
6. 6

   Install new solenoid pack
   Verify new solenoid pack matches the old unit exactly. Install new gasket or O-rings onto the solenoid pack as supplied with the replacement part. Carefully align the solenoid pack with the valve body, ensuring all passages and pins align correctly. Press the pack firmly into place by hand. Install all mounting bolts hand-tight first, then torque in a criss-cross pattern to specification.
   Torque spec

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

   Install new filter
   Install the new transmission filter by aligning it with the mounting points on the valve body. Secure with bolts or clips as applicable. Ensure the filter seal seats properly against the valve body to prevent internal leaks. If filter uses bolts, torque to specification.
8. 8

   Clean and prepare pan
   Thoroughly clean the transmission pan using brake cleaner and shop rags. Remove all old gasket material from both the pan and transmission housing mating surfaces using a scraper. Be careful not to gouge the aluminum surfaces. Inspect pan for cracks or damage. Clean the magnet in the pan thoroughly and inspect the debris pattern. Fine gray powder is normal; chunks of metal indicate problems.
9. 9

   Install pan with new gasket
   Position new gasket on the transmission pan. Some gaskets are self-adhesive; others may require careful alignment during installation. Lift pan into position and start all bolts by hand to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, torque in a criss-cross pattern starting from the center and working outward. This ensures even gasket compression and prevents leaks.
   Torque spec

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

    Install drain plug with new washer
    If transmission is equipped with drain plug, install new crush washer onto drain plug. Thread drain plug into pan by hand, then torque to specification. Do not overtighten as this can strip the aluminum pan threads.
    Torque spec

    Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Refill transmission
    Locate the transmission dipstick tube. Using a long-neck funnel, add approximately 6 quarts of Mopar ATF+4 initially. Start engine and allow to idle in Park. With engine running and transmission at operating temperature (160-200°F), shift through all gear ranges, pausing 3 seconds in each. Return to Park. Check fluid level on dipstick with engine running. Add fluid as needed to bring level to the 'Hot' range. Total capacity is approximately 10 quarts, but actual amount needed depends on torque converter and cooler retention.
12. 12

    Clear diagnostic codes and test drive
    Reconnect battery. Using a scan tool, clear any stored transmission diagnostic codes. Start vehicle and verify no fluid leaks from pan. Allow transmission to reach operating temperature. Test drive vehicle and verify torque converter lockup operates correctly. Lockup typically engages in 6th gear above 45 mph under light throttle. Monitor for smooth engagement without shudder or slipping. Re-check fluid level after test drive and add as necessary.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any skid plates or underbody panels removed for access
2. Torque all fasteners to proper specifications using a criss-cross pattern where applicable
3. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
4. Double-check transmission fluid level after reaching operating temperature

Verification

• Start engine and verify no transmission fluid leaks from pan or drain plug
• With engine at idle in Park, verify fluid level is in 'Cold' range initially
• Test drive vehicle and confirm torque converter lockup engages smoothly without shudder
• Using scan tool, verify no transmission fault codes are present
• After reaching operating temperature (160-200°F), verify fluid level is in 'Hot' range on dipstick with engine running in Park
• Monitor for proper shift quality through all gear ranges under various throttle conditions
• Re-check for leaks after test drive with vehicle on level ground

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