Transmission not operating like it use to.

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CalDad14

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Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Ram Year
2017 Ram 1500 Crew Cab, 4x4, 6-speed, short bed, 392gears
Engine
5.7
2017 Ram 1500 SLT, Crew Cab, 4x4, 6-speed trans, 392 gears.

Not even at 25000kms. The issue has just started w/in the last month. First of all, I feel like it's running at a higher rpm compared to b4 this issue started, specifically at highway speeds. The truck runs at approximately 1900rpms at approximately 110km/h(65mph). Second, it's definitely not shifting smooth or quick like it use to. Seems sluggish. Also, my gas mileage has been getting worse. I love my truck and the set-up, although I do wish I would've gone w/the 8-speed transmission. But I couldn't get a an 8-speed w/the column shifter. They only came w/the rotary dial. I couldn't do it, I couldn't stand looking at that rotary dial! I digress. Purchased the truck brand new, drove it off the lot w/160kms on it. Never had any issues. Without the PCM showing any codes, I find the dealership isn't much help. I do plan on having the dealership re-flash the transmission and going from there. If there are any 4th gen 1500 owners out there that are similarly set up, feed back would be appreciated. Specifically 4th gen, 5.7, 6-speed, 392 gears. Where are your rpms at highway speed, 110km/h(65mph)?

New to the Forum, first post! Thanks in advance.
 

kurek

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2015
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Hemi 5.7
6th gear in the RFE is 0.67:1 so with 3.92 gears and 265/70R17 tires at 65mph your engine will be around 1850ish RPM. If you have the 20" wheels and 275/60r20 tires it will be around 1800 at 65mph.
 

Burla

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2010 Hemi Reg Cab 4x4
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Hemi
2017 Ram 1500 SLT, Crew Cab, 4x4, 6-speed trans, 392 gears.

Not even at 25000kms. The issue has just started w/in the last month. First of all, I feel like it's running at a higher rpm compared to b4 this issue started, specifically at highway speeds. The truck runs at approximately 1900rpms at approximately 110km/h(65mph). Second, it's definitely not shifting smooth or quick like it use to. Seems sluggish. Also, my gas mileage has been getting worse. I love my truck and the set-up, although I do wish I would've gone w/the 8-speed transmission. But I couldn't get a an 8-speed w/the column shifter. They only came w/the rotary dial. I couldn't do it, I couldn't stand looking at that rotary dial! I digress. Purchased the truck brand new, drove it off the lot w/160kms on it. Never had any issues. Without the PCM showing any codes, I find the dealership isn't much help. I do plan on having the dealership re-flash the transmission and going from there. If there are any 4th gen 1500 owners out there that are similarly set up, feed back would be appreciated. Specifically 4th gen, 5.7, 6-speed, 392 gears. Where are your rpms at highway speed, 110km/h(65mph)?

New to the Forum, first post! Thanks in advance.

In my honest opinion, your set up from head to toe transmission and gears maybe the best trucks ever for general use, imo it is definitely top two or three with those 351 ford windsors of the 90's, or the simple designs of earlier years. The one weakness is the transmission, however the great thing about the rfe is it's buildabilty, upgradibilty, and easiness to do so. The rfe operates a whole lot cooler then the 8 speed as well. If you love your truck, invest some time watching these vids. The hardest decision is do you upgrade the VB and maybe solenoid, add metal thread upgrade and synthetic filter with that, or rebuild the entire unit with those items plus clutches possible upgraded drum. If you choose the valve body route, you can do it all yourself w/o dropping trans. I post ats vid not endorsing any brand, there are several, that research is on you, but the info is solid. Chances are it isnt shifting good because it is leaking. The other decision is do I get a plate upgrade (400ish), or a gasket upgrade much cheaper.

Also, get the thermo valve off that truck, lots of posts on that here on RF.

 
Last edited:

farmallboy

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Croton
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2019
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6.4 hemi
No help and don't wanna derail but I read and kinda laughed because rotary shifter....looking at it is the only part I don't mind haha. I don't mind the looks, functionality is annoying. Especially in trailer backing scenarios. But anyways. Is what it is
 

RLJ10X

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5.7 Hemi
My truck was at 50,000 miles when I had the fluid changed. I know you are not close to that. I wasn’t expecting any improvement when I got the fluid changed, but it helped, noticeably.

I wish now that I had done the valve body as well, when I had the fluid changed.

I can’t stand the dial, either. It’s bad enough I can’t get a manual transmission. A knob on the dash just doesn’t cut it. I’m perfectly content with the 545RFE and Slap Stick.

Good luck. Let us know what you find out.
 
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