47RH vs 47RE
The fundamental difference between the 47RH and 47RE is in the governor pressure control. Both units rely on a hydraulic valve body and electronically controlled overdrive unit. However, the governor pressure on the "RH" is hydraulically controlled, while the governor pressure on the "RE" is electronically controlled. The "H" and "E" are often misinterpreted as identifying the "RH" as an entirely hydraulically controlled and the "RE" as an entirely electronically controlled transmission - this is not exactly true as the 47RE retains a hydraulic valvebody.
The 47RE was offered briefly during the 2003 model year as the more desirable 48RE was being introduced behind the High Output Cummins variant. If the 8th digit of the vehicle identification number (VIN) is a "6", the engine is a standard output model and the transmission is a 47RE. If the 8th digit of the VIN is a "C", the engine is a high output model and the transmission is the stronger 48RE.
47RH & 47RE Gear Ratios
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | R |
| 2.45 : 1 | 1.45 : 1 | 1.00 : 1 | 0.69 : 1 | 2.21 : 1 |
47RH & 47RE Transmission Specs
| Transmission | Chrysler 47RH & 47RE | |
| Type | 4 speed automatic OD transmission | |
| Model Years/Applications | 1994 - 2003 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 | |
| Case Material | Aluminum | |
| Max Input Torque | ~ 450 lb-ft | |
| Max GCWR | 19,000 lbs | |
| Weight | ~ 200 lbs dry, w/out torque converter | |
| ATF Type/Spec | ATF+4 automatic transmission fluid | |
| Fluid Capacity | 14.5 - 16.5 dry fill capacity, approx 4 qts service refill capacity | |
| Transmission Filter P/N | 1994 - 1997 MY | MOPAR 3515996, WIX 58707 |
| 1998 - 2003 MY | MOPAR 52118789, WIX 58613 | |
| Service Intervals | Fluid replacement, filter replacement, and band adjustment every 24,000 miles or 24 months (whichever comes first) | |
| Features | • Torque converter lockup (previously unavailable on diesel models) • 47RH - 4 speed, strength designation "7", rear wheel drive, hydraulically controlled governor pressure • 47RE - 4 speed, strength designation "7", rear wheel drive, electronically controlled governor pressure |
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47RH/47RE Reliability Concerns & Skepticism
The 47RH and 47RE transmissions are not often praised for their strength and reliability in Cummins turbodiesel applications. On the contrary, the reliability of the transmission in such applications is questionable considering the Cummins' relatively high torque output and transmission's relatively low max input torque rating (and GCWR). The 47RH/RE have a Chrysler strength designation of "7", which is based on a scale of 1 to 9 where 1 represents the weakest and 9 represents the strongest. The consensus is that this translates into a max input torque rating in the ballpark of 450 lb-ft; just above the 2000 and earlier model year and just below the 2001 - 2003 model year peak engine output.
Transmission reliability is a considerable concern for 1994 to 2003 Dodge Cummins owners, particularly those who frequently tow with their vehicle. As the diesel performance industry has boomed, instances of problems and outright failures has grown exponentially as people quickly come to realize the transmission's breaking point in their quest for more power. Transmission builders and the performance aftermarket have responded and the 47RH and 47RE can be built to withstand tremendous stress. Routine maintenance is necessary to get the most out of the 47RH/RE. This includes replacing the transmission fluid, filter, and adjusting the bands at 24,000 mile intervals. Failure to adjust the bands per OE recommendations will ultimately reduce the life the transmission as the risk of increased wear is imminent.