Swapping in another is easier but be sure you know the other is good or your going to do it twice.

 

I was thinking of buying a brand new one. I still don't know about the type of transmission to get. It seems there are different numbers that will fit the truck? In my manual it lists 36RH, 46RH, A727 and a couple more I think. Does it matter which one I get? Autozone sells one for my truck that says transmission model A727 or 36RH.

 

Ok 727/36RH are the same thing, 3 speed transmission.
If you want to upgrade to a OD get the 46RH/A518(same thing), not the 46RE, and use this kit to control the OD an TCC lockup http://www.transmissioncenter.net/SwapInformation.htm
Difference between RH and RE is- 46RH (hydraulic controlled governor pressure) and 46RE (electronic controlled governor pressure, A.K.A. computer controlled). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TorqueF...46RH.2F46RE.29
There are 2 Versions of the A518 one with TC lockup and one without. That link to the kit and these videos http://s809.photobucket.com/user/xja...tml?sort=4&o=0 explains this.
Which ever you chose, a new TC is mandatory, don't reuse the old one.

Dave

 

Xjarhead maybe you can answer this related question Whats the difference between a 727 and a 904?


OP a friend bought a TCI transmission through summit racing, they start at about a grand and you could get upgraded versions of a 727 if you want.. be sure to ask if they will work in your 4x4 i think you could just swap the tailshafts if you need to but i am not sure as i have seen very few dodge automatics

 

The 904 is basically a lighter duty trans http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TorqueF...904_.2830RH.29
Make sure to get one for 4x4.
Tailshaft length is different and the output shaft is different.
Swapping output shaft means disassemble trans.

Dave

 

I went to Summit racing first but they didn't have my truck listed.

 

Thanks. That actually helps a lot. And the transmission form autozone comes with a balanced torque converter and an inline filter for 1100 bucks (after the 400 dollar core). I thought that was pretty good?

Now, I am not a mechanic but I have made several repairs on my truck using a manual and this site. Honestly is a transmission swap something a novice can do in the driveway? I know it will be a bear doing everything on my back in the driveway but is it doable?

 

Absolutely you can do it in your drive way.
Biggest thing to be sure of that TC is seated correctly http://converter.com/images/CONVERTER%20INSTALL.pdf.
Also helper is good idea but can be done alone.
I did mine by myself, but mine didn't have a transfer case on it.

Dave