Complete transmission fluid and filter service for the 68RFE automatic transmission, including pan removal, filter replacement, and fluid refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission filter kit (includes gasket) × 1 — Mopar 68RFE filter kit or equivalent
• Transmission pan gasket × 1 — Included in filter kit or separate

Fluids

• Mopar ATF+4 — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Allow transmission to cool if recently operated
3. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at frame rail points
4. Verify adequate clearance to work under vehicle safely
5. Position large drain pan under transmission pan (fluid will drain quickly)
6. Have all replacement parts and fluids ready before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Access transmission pan
   Locate the transmission pan on the underside of the transmission. It is a large rectangular pan at the bottom of the transmission case, positioned behind the front axle assembly. Ensure drain pan is positioned directly beneath the pan as fluid will begin draining immediately when bolts are loosened.
2. 2

   Loosen transmission pan bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, begin loosening all transmission pan bolts in a crisscross pattern. Do NOT fully remove bolts yet. Loosen bolts evenly around the perimeter, working gradually to allow pan to begin separating and fluid to drain in a controlled manner. Start at one corner and allow that corner to drop first to direct fluid flow into drain pan.
   ⚠Approximately 5-6 quarts of fluid will drain rapidly once pan begins to separate. Ensure drain pan is positioned correctly.
3. 3

   Remove transmission pan
   Once fluid flow has slowed significantly, remove all remaining pan bolts. Carefully lower the pan, being mindful that additional fluid remains in the pan itself. Tilt pan to drain remaining fluid into drain pan. Set pan aside for cleaning. Inspect pan interior for metal debris or clutch material, which may indicate transmission wear issues.
4. 4

   Remove transmission filter
   Locate the transmission filter mounted inside the transmission case. Remove the filter by pulling straight down firmly. The filter is secured by an o-ring seal and may require moderate force to break the seal. Once removed, inspect the old filter for debris or damage. Check the filter mounting area on the transmission case for debris and clean if necessary.
5. 5

   Clean transmission pan and mating surfaces
   Thoroughly clean the transmission pan using brake cleaner and shop towels. Remove all old gasket material from both the pan and transmission case mating surfaces using a plastic scraper. Be careful not to gouge the aluminum surfaces. The mating surfaces must be completely clean and free of all gasket residue for proper sealing. Inspect pan for cracks or damage. Clean the magnet in the pan thoroughly and reinstall.
6. 6

   Install new transmission filter
   Lubricate the new filter o-ring with clean ATF+4 fluid. Align the new filter with the mounting hole in the transmission case and push straight up firmly until it seats completely. The filter should be fully seated with no gaps visible between the filter and transmission case. Ensure the filter neck is properly aligned and sealed.
7. 7

   Install new gasket and transmission pan
   Position the new gasket on the transmission pan, aligning all bolt holes. Some gaskets are adhesive-backed and will stick to the pan. Carefully lift the pan into position against the transmission case, ensuring the gasket remains properly aligned. Start all pan bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement before tightening any bolts.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Torque transmission pan bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten all transmission pan bolts to 15 Nm (11 lb-ft) in a crisscross pattern starting from the center and working outward. Make multiple passes, gradually increasing torque to final specification. This ensures even gasket compression and prevents leaks.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Lower vehicle and access transmission fill tube
   Lower the vehicle from jack stands. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick tube on the passenger side of the engine compartment, near the firewall. Remove the dipstick and insert a fluid transfer pump or funnel into the dipstick tube for filling.
10. 10

    Refill transmission with ATF+4
    Add approximately 5-6 quarts of Mopar ATF+4 fluid through the dipstick tube initially. Start the engine and allow it to idle. With the engine running and transmission in Park, check the fluid level on the dipstick (fluid should be warm for accurate reading). Add additional fluid in small increments until the level reaches the cold range on the dipstick. Do not overfill.
    ⚠Only use Mopar ATF+4 fluid. Other fluids are not compatible and will damage the transmission.
11. 11

    Check for leaks and cycle transmission
    With the engine running, inspect under the vehicle for any fluid leaks around the transmission pan. With foot on brake, shift transmission through all gear ranges (P-R-N-D-2-1) pausing 2-3 seconds in each gear. Return to Park. This circulates fluid through all transmission components and valve body passages.
12. 12

    Final fluid level check
    Allow engine to idle for 5 minutes to bring transmission fluid to operating temperature. With engine running and transmission in Park on level ground, check fluid level on dipstick. Fluid should be in the hot range (crosshatch area) when at operating temperature. Add fluid as necessary to bring level to proper range. Do not overfill as this can cause shifting issues and fluid aeration.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all transmission pan bolts are torqued to specification
2. Verify transmission dipstick is fully seated
3. Double-check for any fluid leaks after test drive
4. Dispose of used transmission fluid properly at a recycling center

Verification

• No fluid leaks visible around transmission pan after engine warm-up
• Transmission fluid level is in the hot range (crosshatch) on dipstick with engine running at operating temperature
• Transmission shifts smoothly through all gears without slipping or harsh engagement
• Fluid on dipstick is red/pink in color and does not smell burnt
• Re-check fluid level and leak inspection after 50-100 miles of driving

More procedures for this vehicle