Whether you want to change the transmission fluid, the filter or need to rebuild the transmission, having the correct tools at hand can save a lot of time and trouble and help keep your Dodge truck in top shape.
To drain the transmission, the first tool you will need is a jack to elevate the truck. The vehicle needs to be kept level, so two pairs of jack stands should be placed under the axles to keep the truck even. You will also need a large plastic container or an oil drain pan to catch the transmission fluid as it drains. Next, a ½-inch socket, an extension and a ½-inch box-end wrench are required for removing all the bolts in the pan. Once the pan is free, the transmission fluid can be poured into the catch basin. The pan can then be cleaned and re-attached.
The first step in changing the transmission filter is to remove the transmission pan. Therefore, the same tools are needed as for draining the transmission. After the transmission pan is removed, you will need a T-25 Torx bit to remove the three long screws that hold the filter to the bottom of the transmission. The new filter can then be screwed in with the same tool.
The rear band holds the ring gear when either first gear or reverse is used. It can also be accessed from inside the oil pan, so the same set of tools, as for draining the transmission fluid, is needed: a jack and jack stands, a ½-inch socket and box-end wrench. Once the transmission pan is removed, the lock nut can be accessed. It takes a 9/16-inch or 14 mm wrench to loosen the nut. The screw on top of the lock nut must be held tight with a ¼-inch wrench or socket so it won't turn with the lock nut while the lock nut is tightened to the recommended torque. This will require a torque wrench that goes as low a 6 foot-pounds.
A Dodge transmission tool kit can come in handy. This kit comes in a hard plastic carrying case and has a pressure plate, disc, throw out bearing, flywheel shaft support bearing and an alignment tool. A Dodge transmission cooler line tool can be purchased separately, and a transmission rebuild kit is available for several kinds of Dodge transmissions. The rebuild kit includes friction plates and standard clutch plates, a bushing kit, washers, rings, seals and gaskets.
