Hello I want to install a new automatic transmission pan with a drain plug when I change the fluid.
(I recently bought a 2003 Dakota Standard Cab 4x4, 111,000 miles.)
How do I tell what automatic transmission is in my truck? 42RE or ???
Thank you...
kd

 

Nice lookin' truck. That appears to be in really good shape.

Get a build sheet for your truck from here. Should tell ya what trans ya got. (case sensitive, use all caps for letters.)

 

I don't think 2003 had the 3.9 V6, so it wouldn't be a 42RE. I could be wrong on that though.

If it's the 5.9, it's a 46RE.
If it's a 4.7, it's the 45RFE later re-named 545RFE.
If it's the 3.7, it's a 42RLE.

Looks like it has the torsion bars cranked and 2" spacers on the rear axle. If it rides a little rough, that's probably why.

 

My 2003 with 4.7L has the 545RFE. I drilled the original pan and installed an aftermarket drain plug eons ago. I've changed filters only a few times and drain every 25K. Currently at 341K mi and never had a peep of trouble from the tranny.

 

Thanks for that... great info to have. That tells me it's a 42RE A/T. It also says the truck is an SXT.
I appreciate your help!
kd

 

After reading so many comments about warped aftermarket pans, I am going to do the same thing. Thanks for the reply.
kd

 

The build sheet states: 3.9L V6 SMPI Engine.
VIN decoder shows build date 06/13/2013.

 

2013???? Typo?

 

Yes, MY typo...06/13/2003... ooops...

 

I didn't think the 03 MY had the 3.9 still, I thought the 3.7 went into production by then. Alas i am proven incorrect.