What is the proper spec for the rear band adjustment on the 44re auto trans? Everything i have read is consistent with the 72-in lb, but then how far to back off the adjusting screw? My Haynes manual says to back off 4 turns, but the 44re service manual i found online claim to only back off 2 turns. Anyone know what is correct?

99 5.2L Durango 44re auto trans

 

Work in 8ths and I think it is a half turn off. With that said, don't guess at it. It needs to be done right. I know it is listed here in many threads and on the DOC as well. Just search.

IndyD

 

I appreciate that many posts here could have been asnwered if the member just searched first, but I've done much searching and that is why I've found differing values for the adjustment. The stickys are geared for the 45 and 46 series transmissions but old posts, including from Hydra, reference the 4 turns method. Other places also reference loosening 4 full turns, however the full tear-down service manual for the 44re transmission claims the specs are only 2 turns. Normally I would trust the answer referenced the most, but the service manual is so complete on a full breakdown of the entire tranny and transfer case it made me question the other sources. I was hoping someone that has done band adjustments on the 44re would be able to chime in and say one way or the other.

I also find differing values for the front band adjustment, but 2 7/8" turns to 2 1/4" turns isnt near as huge as the difference for the rear. I am still questioning which is right for that as well but figured i would start with the rear band question as the difference is so large. Plus on the front I can/will use the method you mention about working in 8ths, but for the rear the pan has to be dropped so I'm hoping to get it right the first try.

 

The last time I talked to master tech I asked him on that, he stated that he adjusts the bands so there is between 1/4" to 1/2" loop of play between the band and the clutch. This could be why there are so many off posts about it. I asked him to take a picture of it next time he adjusted one for reforance but he most likely forgot. Regardless I would do what he tells us as he is a 20+ year OEM Transmission Master Tech and is over a lot of shops. Feel free to shoot him a PM.

Out of the 1998 service manual it states:

Rear Band:

REAR BAND ADJUSTMENT

The transmission oil pan must be removed for
access to the rear band adjusting screw.
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Remove transmission oil pan and drain fluid.
(3) Loosen band adjusting screw locknut 5-6 turns-
(Fig. 252). Be sure adjusting screw turns freely in
lever.
(4) Tighten adjusting screw to 8 N·m (72 in. lbs.)
torque.

42/44RE TRANSMISSION

²

²

Mopart ATF Plus 3, Type 7176 fluid.


Front Band:

FRONT BAND ADJUSTMENT

The front (kickdown) band adjusting screw is
located on the left side of the transmission case
above the manual valve and throttle valve levers.
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Loosen band adjusting screw locknut (Fig. 250).
Then back locknut off 3-5 turns. Be sure adjusting
screw turns freely in case. Apply lubricant to screw
threads if necessary.
(3) Tighten band adjusting screw to 8 N·m (72 in.
lbs.) torque with Inch Pound Torque Wrench
C-3380-A, a 3-in. extension and 5/16 socket.

CAUTION: If Adapter C-3705 is needed to reach the
adjusting screw (Fig. 251), tighten the screw to only
5 N·m (47-50 in. lbs.) torque.
Fig. 248 Throttle Valve Cable Attachment —At
Engine
Fig. 249 Gearshift Cable Routing

42RE TRANSMISSION

²

²

44RE TRANSMISSION

²

²

(4) Lower vehicle.

 

Interesting, that is the first reference I've heard to the 1/4" to 1/2" clearance. I wonder if that is visible with only the oil pan dropped.. I did PM master tech.

 

Yes it is only visable when the pan is dropped and you are looking at the bands and clutchs.

That is how he stated he does the adjustements.

 

Great, thanks. Dodgeforum rocks my socks.