Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans (specifically the 65RFE):
Transmission Type & Specs dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans
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The 2013–2016/17 Ram 1500 5.7 L HEMI commonly came equipped with the 65RFE six-speed automatic transmission in 2WD form
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It uses Mopar ATF+4 fluid (Mopar MS‑9602)
Fluid Capacity & Maintenance
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Service (drain and fill) capacity for 2WD: approximately 5.5 quarts (~5.2 L) Full/overhaul fill capacity: ~14.8–16.9 quarts (~14–16 L)
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Recommended fluid change interval: every 60,000 mi, or at least between 30,000–60,000 mi especially for towing or heavy duty usage
Community Insights:
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Most enthusiasts avoid chemical flushes, opting instead for a drain-and-fill method Some Ram owners recommend earlier fluid changes (~50–60k mi), citing improved shift quality.
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Watch for dealer resistance—many call it “lifetime” fluid and don’t offer scheduled services
DIY & Service Tips
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Drain-and-fill via pan drop drains around 5–6 qt, but torque converter retains ~4 qt, so expect to add more in stages
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Overhaul service may require ~14–16 qt if replacing the converter and internal components
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For many, a transmission fluid change kit (~8 L of ATF+4, filter, pan gasket) covers service needs.
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Dealers often charge $800–1,100 or more due to “sealed” transmission design; DIY or independent shops are significantly cheaper .
Summary Table dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans
Item | Specification |
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Transmission | 65RFE 6-speed automatic |
Fluid Type | Mopar ATF+4 |
Service Fill | ~5.5 qt (2WD) |
Overhaul Fill | ~14.8–16.9 qt |
Change Interval | 30–60 k mi (or every 60 k mi normally) |
Recommended Method | Drain-and-fill; avoid flushes |
Recommendation
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If your truck is stock and doesn’t tow heavily: drain-and-fill ~every 60k mi using Mopar ATF+4 and OEM filter.
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If towing, off-roading, or heavy-duty use: consider doing fluid change every 30–50k mi.
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Stay away from full chemical flushes—opt for safe drain-and-fill.
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DIY vs Dealer: Dealers often push back or overcharge; you can save substantially by using a kit (~$200–300) and doing it yourself or via a reputable independent shop.
Would you like a step‑by‑step DIY guide (tools list, pan removal, refill procedure), torque specs, or help selecting a fluid/change kit?
Here’s a refined DIY guide for servicing the 65RFE 6-speed automatic transmission in your dodge ram 2wd 5.7l automatic transmission
Tools & Supplies
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Mopar ATF+4 (MS‑9602) or licensed equivalent (~6 qt for pan service; full fill ~12 qt) Transmission pan/filter kit (OEM or aftermarket; Blau Parts kit includes pan, filter, gasket & hardware)
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Torque wrench
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8 mm hex bit (fill plug), 10 mm hex (drain plug), T40 Torx (pan bolts)
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Drain pan & rags
Step-by-Step Procedure dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans
1. Prepare & Drain
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Ensure truck is level on jack stands or lift.
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Loosen fill plug (8 mm hex) first, to verify it can be opened
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Open drain plug (10 mm), drain fluid into pan; reinstall and torque when done.
2. Remove Pan & Filter
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Loosen 13 pan bolts (T40), leave two at corners to hold pan, then lower slowly
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Clean pan’s mating surface and magnet(s), install new filter and gasket .
3. Reinstall Pan
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Torque bolts to 105 in‑lb (~8.75 ft‑lb or 1.2 N·m)
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Ensure studs/spacers are correct—dry bolts; do NOT use anti‑seize unless noted.
4. Refill & Level
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With truck level, fill via fill port until fluid flows out (~5 qt)
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Start engine idle, remove fill plug, top off until steady stream appears, reinstall plug just snug .
5. Bleed System dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans
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Cycle through gears: R → N → D → hold 2 nd at ~2000 RPM per a 5‑step shift sequence
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Recheck fill after warm-up and cool-down.
Specs & Capacity dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans
Item | Value |
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Bolt Torque (pan) | 105 in‑lb (~8.75 ft‑lb) |
Service Fluid | ~5 qt (~5 L) |
Full Transmission | ~12 qt (~11–12 L) |
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Stick with Mopar ATF+4 or exact licensed versions — generic ATFs may harm clutches
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Some synthetic alternatives (Ravenol, Co-op, Redline C+) perform well
Fluid Change Interval
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Recommended every 60,000 mi; consider doing every 30–50k if towing or heavy usage
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Dealer may claim “lifetime fluid,” but both ZF and community suggest 50–75k mi
Community Tips
“Most dealers call it ‘lifetime’ fluid… you’ll have to pump it yourself. Fluid and pan cost ~$300; shop time saves ~$800”
“Fluid change is tedious—exhaust clearance, leveling, bleed procedure—but absolutely doable DIY”
Final Recommendations dodge ram 2wd 5.7l auto trans
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Use a quality kit (e.g. Blau/EUROL for 65RFE).
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Torque bolts to spec and ensure proper gasket installation.
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Level truck accurately; gear-bleed per service procedure.
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Track mileage—plan fluid change at ~60k mi (sooner if towing/off-road).
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Use Mopar ATF+4 or a trusted equivalent.