I have a 1996 1500 4x4 with the automatic transmission "46RE? can't locate tag".

Long story short.
Transmission replaced years ago before I got it.
Cheap transmission line spliced in at Transmission.
I added a cooler and occasionally pull a 4000lb trailer/ OD off.
Low miles 95000.
Occasional whining noise when cold.
Fluid has always looked good and no real issues until.......

Son-in-law borrowed truck to pull 4000lb trailer last fall.
The replaced trans line rusted / blew out while on the freeway.
Truck was pulled over immediately. The trans line was replaced right there.
Unfortunately, son-in-law didn't know any different and added 3 quarts of Type F trans fluid. (yes they still sell it).
Transmission was perfect for a few weeks. Suddenly it started slipping badly. Son-in-law limped it home.
Now the transmission will not engage at all. Fluid level and color is fine.

Plan of attack now that winter is passing.
-Pull pan look at filter and bottom of pan for wear or broken parts.
- replace filter if need and refill and try again.
- remove check valve in cooler return line.

- Start looking for a used trans.

- Sell truck

Any other thoughts before I throw in the towel?
What might the whining be?
Are there any sensors/connections that could cause this condition?

Thanks
Rick

 

Bump.
What year transmissions can I use in my 1996?
Does anyone have a cross reference on this transmission. I saw a few 4x4 transmissions, local on Craig's list.

 

I believe you can use a '96 or a '97 46RE. Before '96, IIRC, they used 46RH's and after '97, they deleted the tailshaft gear from the speed measurement equation. You might be able to use the tailshaft of your existing unit on a newer ('98-'01) tranny to retain the required sensor.

 

If you have a 46RH do not even think about a 46RE. Please.
The 46RH is a wonderful transmission.
Get your 46RH rebuilt.
If you need more convincing let me know.

 

How do I identify a RH from an RE?
Can I tell from the Vin number or is it on the build-out label on the truck?

What is "Before '96, IIRC"?

From the scenario I gave, does anything jump out that I should check first?

I'm moving it up into the garage this weekend.
Thanks
Rick

 

the type-f fluid really screwed you didnt it.

 

IIRC ... If I Recall Correctly.

I don't think you have an RH.

 

I doubt very much the Type F fluid caused the problem.
When you get a big leak like that happens it usually wipes out the clutches.
Your trans doesn't have a tag but it should have a rail #
Look on the side of the trans where the pan meets the case.
There should be a smooth machined area with some letters and numbers stamped on it.
It will start with PK5xxxxxxx

 

TMS Bill "IIRC ... If I Recall Correctly." Too funny, never heard that.

I did some research on the TypeF, seems it had some additional additives. From what I have read I don't think a couple of quarts would have done it. But who knows.

The thing that bothers me is that it ran fine for weeks. Even getting the trailer home from an hour away.

There is a nasty "buzz". Possibly a pump starving for fluid? Does this sound like an issue anyone else has had? I did look at the fluid again last night. It doesn't look burned but it is not as clean as I would have hoped. It seems to have a pretty high gray content to it.

Rambler.
I'll clean things off and look again. Which side of the transmission where the pan meets the case?

 

The driver's side ... there's a good chance you won't be able to see it directly. My frame rail and (I think) driveshaft are perfectly positioned to block the number.