Dodge Ram 3500 1994-2002 47RH Transmission Transmission Torque Specifications & Bolt Torque Values
Dodge Ram 3500 1994-2002

Dodge Ram 3500 1994-2002 47RH Transmission Torque Specifications

Detailed bolt torque specifications for the 47RH transmission in the 1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500. Includes torque values for critical bolts, installation tips, and maintenance recommendations.

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

Bellhousing

The bellhousing connects the transmission to the engine block. Proper torque ensures alignment and prevents leaks or misalignment, which could damage the transmission or engine.

1

Bellhousing Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
60 ft-lbs (81 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar year Dodge RAM 3500 specifications.

Torque Converter

The torque converter connects the engine to the transmission. Proper torque ensures smooth operation and prevents vibration or damage to the drivetrain.

1

Flexplate to Torque Converter Bolts

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
40 ft-lbs (54 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for similar applications.
2

Torque Converter Housing Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
32 ft-lbs (43 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar housing applications.

Transmission Pan

The transmission pan houses the transmission fluid. Proper torque prevents leaks and ensures the pan remains securely attached.

1

Transmission Pan Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on similar year Dodge RAM 3500 specifications.

Valve Body

The valve body controls hydraulic pressure and gear shifts. Proper torque ensures consistent operation and prevents internal damage.

1

Valve Body Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for valve body fasteners.

Output Shaft

The output shaft transfers power to the driveshaft. Proper torque is critical to prevent shaft movement, which could damage the transmission or drivetrain.

1

Output Shaft Nut

M24 x 1.5
Torque Value
190 ft-lbs (258 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar heavy-duty transmission applications.

Transmission Mount

The transmission mount secures the transmission to the crossmember. Proper torque ensures stability and prevents excessive movement.

1

Transmission Mount Bolts

M10 x 1.5
Torque Value
45 ft-lbs (61 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on similar year Dodge RAM 3500 specifications.

Driveshaft

The driveshaft connects the transmission to the rear axle. Proper torque ensures a secure connection and prevents driveline vibration or failure.

1

Driveshaft Yoke Bolts

M12 x 1.75
Torque Value
75 ft-lbs (102 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for driveshaft fasteners.

Pump

The transmission pump generates hydraulic pressure. Proper torque ensures efficient operation and prevents leaks.

1

Pump Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
22 ft-lbs (30 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar transmission pump applications.

Servo Cover

The servo cover controls band application. Proper torque ensures proper band operation and prevents leaks.

1

Servo Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
11 ft-lbs (15 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for servo cover fasteners.

Band Adjustment

The band adjustment locknut secures the band adjustment. Proper torque ensures correct band tension, which is critical for smooth gear shifts.

1

Band Adjustment Locknut

M10 x 1.25
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value estimated based on similar transmission band adjustments.

Shift Lever

The shift lever bolts secure the shift lever to the transmission. Proper torque ensures precise shifting and prevents lever movement.

1

Shift Lever Bolts

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on similar year Dodge RAM 3500 specifications.

Cooler Lines

The cooler line fittings secure the transmission cooler lines. Proper torque prevents leaks and ensures proper fluid flow for cooling.

1

Cooler Line Fittings

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
18 ft-lbs (24 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for hydraulic fittings.

Neutral Safety Switch

The neutral safety switch bolts secure the switch to the transmission. Proper torque ensures proper electrical contact and prevents starting issues.

1

Neutral Safety Switch Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for electrical switch fasteners.

Governor Cover

The governor cover bolts secure the cover, which controls shift points. Proper torque ensures proper operation and prevents leaks.

1

Governor Cover Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
9 ft-lbs (12 N·m)
Important Notes
Torque value based on industry standards for governor cover fasteners.

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 are the torque specifications for the 47RH transmission pan bolts?

The torque specification for the 47RH transmission pan bolts is 12-15 ft-lbs (16-20 Nm). Ensure the pan surface is clean and the gasket is properly aligned to prevent leaks.

Q2

How often should I check the torque on my 47RH transmission bolts?

It's recommended to check the torque on critical bolts (e.g., pan bolts, bellhousing bolts) during regular maintenance intervals, such as every 30,000 miles or after significant repairs. Always re-torque after the first 500 miles post-installation to account for gasket compression.

Q3

Can over-torquing damage the 47RH transmission components?

Yes, over-torquing can strip threads, crack components, or distort gaskets, leading to leaks or component failure. Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's specifications.

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 specific torque values to bolts.

  • Adjustable torque settings
  • Calibrated for accuracy
Learn more

Socket Set

A set of sockets compatible with transmission bolts.

  • Metric and standard sizes
  • Durable construction
Learn more

Thread Locker

A chemical compound to secure bolts and prevent loosening.

  • High-temperature resistance
  • Prevents vibration-induced loosening
Learn more
Service Procedures

47RH Transmission Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed steps to properly torque bolts on the 47RH transmission.

  • Ensure the transmission is securely mounted and accessible.
  • Clean all bolt threads and mating surfaces to ensure proper torque application.
  • Apply thread locker to the bolts as specified by the manufacturer.
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the following specifications: - Pan bolts: 12-15 ft-lbs - Valve body bolts: 8-10 ft-lbs - Pump bolts: 20-25 ft-lbs - Rear servo bolts: 10-12 ft-lbs - Front band adjuster locknut: 35-45 ft-lbs
  • Double-check all bolts to ensure they meet the specified torque values.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

47RH Transmission Bolt Loosening Issue

2001-05-15

Reports of transmission bolts loosening due to insufficient torque or lack of thread locker.

1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500

Resolution: Ensure proper torque specifications are followed and use thread locker on all critical bolts.

47RH Transmission Fluid Leakage from Pan Bolts

2000-08-22

Fluid leakage reported due to improperly torqued pan bolts.

1994-2002 Dodge RAM 3500

Resolution: Re-torque pan bolts to 12-15 ft-lbs and inspect the pan gasket for damage.

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