The 68RFE transmissions in some of the newer Ram trucks have a history of failing. Some will say it is from abuse and some will say it is doomed from the get-go. Regardless, it happens. Raybestos Powertrain has found a fix for the common failure with the overdrive clutch. In this how-to bit, we’ll uncover their latest YouTube video on how to do it step by step.

The Overdrive ZPak (Part #RZP-008) is a single-sided clutch system that outperforms OE parts in torque as well as heat capacity without coning. This part increases torque capacity and transmission durability while significantly reducing max core temperature. It is perfect for every rebuild including heavy duty applications. This part number features 1-Overdrive Reaction Plate, 7-Overdrive OD Spline GPZ, 7-Overdrive ID Spline GPZ, 1-OD/UD Pressure Plate, and 1-OD/Rev Pressure Plate. It is recommended for enhanced performance rebuilds in which the OE is prone to fail.

Find out how these can fix your 68RFE right here.

How Do I Do It?

I understand that this may not pertain to every one of you readers because not everyone is comfortable with doing this sort of job. If you are thinking about doing it yourself, this is a great resource on how you can perform this job correctly straight from the experts at Raybestos Powertrain.

If you are one of the people that feels comfortable enough to do this, you’re in the right place. First, you’re going to want to have your overdrive clutch drum out and exposed. Once you’ve got the 68RFE underdrive clutch assembly installed with the snap ring, you can then install the Underdrive and Overdrive pressure plate with the step facing up and then install the next snap ring. Next, you will install the thin steel plate.

Now it is time for the friction plates. Starting with an inside, splined single-sided friction plate, install it friction side facing down. Then, install an outside, splined single-sided friction plate friction side down. Continue alternating ID and OD splined plates until you have all 14 single-sided friction plates installed. Once this is complete, you can then install the large waved (OE) snap ring.

With the clutches in, you can then install the stepped pressure plate step side down to keep the clutches at bay. Next, install the large, flat (OE) snap ring and then install the reverse clutches as normal. Here is where things can get tricky. This step is very important. If you don’t have the tooling required, you need to have it before continuing on.

Lastly, check the OD clutch clearance with a dial indicator at 20-psi of air pressure. Any other method, per Raybestos, will more than likely produce different results. It is critical that the clearances are correct or you risk damaging your new parts. Clearances should be between .030″ to .063″. If you run into trouble, Raybestos offers a technical assistance line (1-800-729-7763) for questions.

To find out more about your transmission upgrade parts, head on over to the Raybestos Powertrain website here. For more install tutorials and new parts for your transmission, stay tuned right here to Diesel Army.