How to Replace a Transmission Filter in a 1996 Dodge RAM

The 1996 Dodge Ram pickup truck with the optional automatic transmission will have a filter located in the underbelly of the transmission case. The filter can be accessed through the transmission drain pan, removable with a socket wrench. A new gasket will be required, and many shops sell filter kits that include the necessary hardware. The average backyard mechanic can replace the filter in a Dodge transmission in about an hour.

Things You'll Need

• Drain pan
• Wheel chock
• Socket set
• Screwdrivers
• 5 quarts of transmission fluid
• Transmission filter kit
• Funnel
• Rags

Instructions

1. Open the hood and partially pull the transmission dipstick out. This relieves the positive or negative pressure in the transmission. Place the drain pan underneath the transmission, and be sure to have the truck parked on a level surface with a wheel chock in place.

2. Remove the transmission's lower cover (called a "drain pan" itself) by turning the hexagonal bolts holding it to the transmission counterclockwise. As the transmission pan comes loose, it will drip and dump the fluid into the drain pan. The gasket may have become stuck to the transmission and pan, making it difficult to remove. Lightly work a screwdriver into the gasket and wiggle the pan loose. Let it sit with a couple of bolts loosened, but still in place, to drain as much fluid as possible before removing the cover. Remove the last bolts, keeping a firm hand under the transmission pan. It is free, and can be removed from the truck for inspection. Several magnets could be placed in this pan, and they collect metallic debris while the transmission is in use. Set the pan aside, and let the transmission drain continuously. Gently scrape off any remaining gasket material from the pan and transmission with a screwdriver and wipe clean.

3. Remove the existing transmission filter by unscrewing the two flat head screws that hold it to the underside of the transmission's exposed internals. Pull the filter free, and remove the gasket, if applicable. There should be a gasket included with the filter kit that orients onto the filter where the inlet and outlet ports meet. Apply the filter, position it into the transmission, then secure it with the two flat head screws, turned clockwise.

4. Place the new gasket onto the transmission pan in the correct position, then place the pan against the transmission. Finger tighten all of the bolts, making sure that they are all tightened simultaneously. Using the socket wrench, gently tighten all bolts until they are just a little more than snug. The manual for the RAM truck would call for between 12 and 15 pounds of torque, which is much less than the average person can force on a wrench.

5. Refill the transmission to the proper level of fluid by placing a funnel into the transmission dipstick neck and pouring in about as much as fell into the drain pan (about 5 quarts). Start the truck and check the fluid level with the dipstick, adding more until it meets the right line on the stick. When the fluid is at the proper level, replace the dipstick, lower the hood and test drive the truck.

Tips & Warnings

• Dispose of transmission fluid at oil change centers and some auto parts stores.

• Use extreme caution when working underneath a vehicle.

References

• 2carpros: How to Service an Automatic Transmission
• Freeengineinfo: Change Transmission Filter
• Bluehummer: Transmission Fluid and Filter Change

Resources

• Trustmymechanic: Transmission Slippage