How to Replace Transmission Pan 02-09 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L
Difficulty: Intermediate · About 120 min · Dodge Ram
Replace the transmission pan filter and gasket on a 2002–2009 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L, cleaning the pan magnet and refilling with the exact transmission fluid specified for the truck at the prescribed operating temperature.
Tools you will need
- Razor Blade / Gasket Scraper
- Funnel
- Torque Wrench
- Jack Stands
- Brake Parts Cleaner
- Safety Glasses
- 8mm Socket
- Drain Pan
- Transmission Fluid
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- Cloth Rags
- T25 Torx Driver
Parts and supplies
- Transmission filter
- Transmission pan gasket
- Transmission fluid
Steps
Raise the truck and drain the pan
Park level, chock the wheels, and support the truck securely on stands. Place a large drain pan below the transmission and loosen the pan bolts gradually, leaving a couple of fasteners partly engaged so the pan can tilt and drain in a controlled way.
Remove the pan and filter
Once most fluid has drained, remove the remaining pan bolts and lower the pan carefully. Remove the filter fastener and pull the filter straight down, keeping the old fluid away from painted surfaces.
Clean and inspect the pan
Remove and clean the magnet, then clean the pan with a suitable parts cleaner. Scrape old gasket material carefully without gouging the pan or transmission mating surfaces, and note any unusual metal or debris for diagnosis.
Install the new filter
Seat the replacement filter evenly in its bore and install its retaining fastener to specification. Verify the old filter seal has not remained stuck in the transmission and that the new filter is fully seated.
Reinstall the transmission pan
Place the clean magnet in its original location and fit a new gasket, using sealant only if the transmission instructions call for it. Start all pan bolts by hand and tighten them evenly in sequence to the specified low torque.
Refill the transmission
Lower the truck level and add the correct fluid through the specified fill point. Start the engine and cycle the selector through each range with the brake held, then check the fluid using the manufacturer's procedure and temperature range.
Check for leaks and verify level
Inspect the pan perimeter for seepage and recheck the level at the required transmission temperature. Add fluid in small amounts as needed; overfilling or using the wrong fluid can damage the transmission.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.