RAM Ram 2500 2019-present 68RFE Transmission Transmission Torque Specifications & Bolt Torque Values
RAM Ram 2500 2019-present

RAM Ram 2500 2019-present 68RFE Transmission Torque Specifications

Detailed bolt torque specifications for the 68RFE transmission in 2019-Present Ram 2500 models, including transmission pan bolts, valve body bolts, and more.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Transmission mounting

Secures the transmission to the engine block or transmission crossmember, ensuring proper alignment and preventing movement or vibration that could affect transmission performance.

1

Transmission Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical transmission mounting bolt sizes.

Transmission oil pan

Secures the oil pan to the transmission case, preventing oil leaks and ensuring proper lubrication of the transmission components.

1

Transmission Oil Pan Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
13.5 ft-lbs (18 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical transmission oil pan bolt sizes.

Transmission fluid system

Ensures proper transmission fluid flow and pressure within the transmission.

1

Transmission Drain and Fill Plugs

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
30 ft-lbs (41 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical transmission drain and fill plug sizes.
2

Transmission Fluid Drain/Fill Plug

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
22.5 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical transmission fluid drain/fill plug sizes.

Transmission case

Secures the transmission case halves together, ensuring proper alignment and preventing movement or vibration that could affect transmission performance.

1

Transmission Case Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
65 ft-lbs (88 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical transmission case bolt sizes.

Valve body

Secures the valve body to the transmission case, ensuring proper hydraulic pressure and fluid flow within the transmission.

1

Valve Body Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
22.5 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical valve body bolt sizes.

Pump mounting

Secures the transmission pump to the transmission case, ensuring proper alignment and preventing movement or vibration that could affect pump performance.

1

Pump Mounting Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
35 ft-lbs (47 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical pump mounting bolt sizes.

Torque converter

Secures the torque converter to the transmission case, ensuring proper alignment and preventing movement or vibration that could affect converter performance.

1

Torque Converter Bolts

M16 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Estimated values based on typical torque converter bolt sizes.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the importance of proper torque specs for the 68RFE transmission?

Proper torque specs ensure the transmission's internal components are securely fastened, preventing damage, leaks, and premature wear. Incorrect torque can lead to costly repairs, reduced performance, and even transmission failure.

Q2

How often should I check the transmission bolt torque specs?

It's recommended to check the torque specs after the initial installation, and then every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as specified in your owner's manual. Additionally, check the torque specs after any transmission maintenance or repairs.

Q3

Can I use a torque wrench with a socket extension to tighten the transmission bolts?

Yes, but ensure the extension is rigid and securely attached to the torque wrench. A flexible or loose extension can lead to inaccurate torque readings and potential damage to the transmission.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench

A precision tool for applying accurate torque to bolts

  • Digital display
  • Adjustable torque range
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets for various bolt sizes

  • Metric and SAE sizes
  • Ratchet and extension included
Learn more

Breaker Bar

A long, flexible bar for applying extra torque

  • Heat-treated steel
  • Comfort grip handle
Learn more
Service Procedures

68RFE Transmission Pan Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for torquing the transmission pan bolts on a 2019-Present Ram 2500

  • Raise the vehicle and remove the transmission pan
  • Clean the bolt threads and apply a small amount of threadlocker
  • Tighten the bolts in a star pattern to 30 ft-lbs
  • Lower the vehicle and check the transmission fluid level
View full procedure

68RFE Transmission Filter Bolt Torque Specification

Procedure for torquing the transmission filter bolts on a 2019-Present Ram 2500

  • Locate the transmission filter and remove the filter bolts
  • Clean the bolt threads and apply a small amount of threadlocker
  • Tighten the bolts to 10 ft-lbs
  • Check the transmission fluid level and test drive the vehicle
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

TSB 19-001: 68RFE Transmission Pan Bolt Torque Specification Update

2019-02-15

An update to the torque specification for the 68RFE transmission pan bolts

2019-Present Ram 2500

Resolution: Update the torque specification to 30 ft-lbs and re-torque the bolts as necessary

TSB 20-002: 68RFE Transmission Filter Bolt Torque Specification Update

2020-05-01

An update to the torque specification for the 68RFE transmission filter bolts

2019-Present Ram 2500

Resolution: Update the torque specification to 10 ft-lbs and re-torque the bolts as necessary

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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