Transmission Pan Gasket

Replace the transmission pan gasket on the 48RE automatic transmission to stop leaks and allow for a partial fluid change and filter service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission pan gasket × 1 — OEM Mopar or equivalent 48RE pan gasket
• Transmission filter kit (includes filter and gasket) × 1 — OEM Mopar 48RE filter kit

Fluids

• ATF+4 — 6 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow transmission to cool if vehicle was recently operated
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands
5. Verify vehicle is stable before working underneath

Procedure

1. 1

   Position drain pan and locate pan bolts
   Slide drain pan under transmission pan. Identify all pan bolts around perimeter (the 48RE pan typically uses approximately 20 bolts). Note the location of any bolt studs versus regular bolts for reassembly.
2. 2

   Loosen transmission pan bolts
   Starting from one end, loosen all pan bolts 2-3 turns but do not remove. Work in a crisscross pattern to prevent warping the pan. Loosen the bolts at one corner slightly more to allow fluid to begin draining from that corner first.
3. 3

   Drain transmission fluid
   Carefully break the seal at the loosened corner and allow fluid to drain into pan. As fluid flow slows, gradually loosen remaining bolts while supporting the pan. Remove all bolts except two at opposite corners to support the pan while final fluid drains.
4. 4

   Remove transmission pan
   Remove final two bolts and carefully lower the pan. Be prepared for additional fluid release. Tilt pan to drain remaining fluid into drain pan. Inspect pan for metal shavings or debris (small amount of fine material is normal).
5. 5

   Remove transmission filter
   Locate the filter assembly on the valve body. Remove the filter retaining screws (verify count against your 48RE filter kit). Carefully pull filter down to unseat it from the pickup tube seal. Additional fluid will drain from filter cavity.
6. 6

   Clean transmission pan
   Remove old gasket material from pan using plastic or brass scraper. Clean pan thoroughly with brake cleaner or degreaser. Remove magnet, clean thoroughly to remove metal particles, and inspect condition. Wipe pan dry with clean shop towels.
7. 7

   Clean transmission mating surface
   Carefully remove old gasket material from transmission case mating surface using plastic scraper. Avoid gouging the aluminum surface. Clean surface with brake cleaner and wipe dry. Ensure no debris falls into transmission.
8. 8

   Install new transmission filter
   Install new filter gasket onto valve body pickup tube. Align new filter onto pickup tube and push firmly to seat. Install three filter bolts and tighten to secure filter. Verify filter is fully seated and secure.
9. 9

   Install new pan gasket
   Position new gasket onto transmission pan. Ensure gasket is properly aligned with all bolt holes and pan edges. Some gaskets have adhesive backing; if not, gasket can be held in place with small dabs of ATF or gasket adhesive.
10. 10

    Reinstall transmission pan
    Carefully lift pan with gasket into position against transmission case. Start all bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Install bolts in their original locations (studs versus regular bolts).
11. 11

    Torque pan bolts
    Tighten pan bolts in a crisscross pattern working from center outward. Torque to the 48RE pan bolt spec of approximately 12-13 ft-lbs (145-156 inch-lbs) in multiple passes. Final torque should be uniform across all bolts. Do not overtighten as pan is stamped steel and transmission case is aluminum.
12. 12

    Refill transmission fluid
    Lower vehicle to ground. Locate transmission dipstick tube. Using a long-neck funnel, add 5 quarts of ATF+4 initially. Start engine and allow to idle in Park. Shift through all gear positions, pausing 2-3 seconds in each. Return to Park.
13. 13

    Check and adjust fluid level
    With engine idling in Park and transmission at operating temperature (150-170°F), check fluid level on dipstick. Add additional ATF+4 in small increments to bring level to the hot range on dipstick. Do not overfill. Total added should be approximately 5-6 quarts.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all pan bolts are torqued evenly to prevent leaks and pan distortion
2. Verify no tools or parts were left under vehicle before lowering
3. Dispose of used ATF+4 fluid properly at recycling center

Verification

• With engine at operating temperature, check that fluid level is in the hot range on dipstick
• Inspect under vehicle for any signs of leakage from pan gasket after initial test drive
• Take vehicle for 10-15 minute test drive, then recheck fluid level and inspect for leaks
• Monitor transmission operation for smooth shifts and proper engagement in all gears
• Check fluid level again after 50-100 miles of driving to ensure proper level is maintained

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