How To Identify A 46re Transmission

How to Identify a 46RE Transmission: A Comprehensive Guide

Identifying a 46RE transmission correctly is crucial, whether you're buying a used one, troubleshooting a vehicle, or simply satisfying your automotive curiosity. This guide provides clear, concise methods to accurately identify this specific Chrysler automatic transmission.

Key Features of the 46RE Transmission

The 46RE, short for "4-speed 6-cylinder electronically controlled RE", is a four-speed automatic transmission used primarily in various Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles from the early 1990s to the mid-2000s. Knowing its key features is the first step in identification. These include:

• Four forward gears: This is a fundamental characteristic. Count the number of gear positions on the shifter (if applicable).
• Electronically controlled: Unlike older hydraulic transmissions, the 46RE uses electronic control for shifting. You'll need to inspect the transmission's control unit for identification.
• Used in specific vehicles: Familiarizing yourself with the vehicle models that commonly used the 46RE transmission is critical (see the list below).
• Specific identification tags: The transmission case usually features a stamped identification number crucial for positive identification.

Where to Look for Identifying Marks

The most reliable method for identifying a 46RE transmission involves visual inspection of the transmission case itself.

1. Transmission Case Number

• Location: The identification number is usually stamped or cast into the side or top of the transmission case. It might be near the bellhousing.
• Appearance: This number will be a series of alphanumeric characters. A quick online search of this number will confirm if it's a 46RE. This is the most definitive method of identification.

2. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Cross-Reference

• Access: The VIN is located on the vehicle's dashboard, usually near the driver's side windshield.
• Use: This VIN can be used to look up the original transmission specifications for the vehicle. This approach provides additional confirmation, though the transmission may have been replaced at some point.

3. Pan and Filter Inspection (Less Reliable)

• Note: While not a foolproof method, the transmission pan and filter can offer clues. Some 46RE specific markings or characteristics might be present. However, this is not a reliable method for certain identification.

Vehicle Models Commonly Equipped with the 46RE Transmission

Knowing the typical vehicles that utilized the 46RE can assist you in the identification process, but this isn't definitive: it is possible for the transmission to have been swapped into a different vehicle. This information should be used in conjunction with other identifying methods.

• Dodge Ram Trucks: Several generations of Ram trucks used the 46RE.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee: Certain model years of the Grand Cherokee utilized this transmission.
• Other Chrysler Products: Several other Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models used the 46RE during its production years.

Conclusion

Identifying a 46RE transmission requires a methodical approach. While other clues can be helpful, the most reliable method is to locate and research the stamped identification number on the transmission case. Always confirm your findings through multiple sources for accurate identification. Happy searching!