This just didn't sound right so I went right to the source. I talked to a verified Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram technician this morning who has completed the 8-speed ZF transmission technical training. Here's what he said:

• The new Ram 8-speed automatic uses a fill-for-life ATF and does not require any routine maintenance or service.
• There is no dipstick to check the fluid level. Fluid level is monitored by the computer.
• The all plastic transmission oil pan does not require replacement for any routine maintenance or service.

Regards,
Dusty

 

In reviewing the Ram site, it shows the 8 spd transmission with a dipstick. ??
An all plastic pan doesn't sound all to pratical, as off road debrie could hit and crack it, better come with a good transmission skid cover.
Where I live we put a oil, & trans heater pads to help warm up the fluid on cold starts (-20 and colder).
So plastic pan + heat ???

 

Thanks for the update Dusty.

 

Must have seen the previous 6 speed, but maybe not.

I too am not sure I agree with the whole plastic pan thing. For your same reasoning. I see lots of guys using that, BUT I have also seen guys with fluid recirculation pumps. SO it keeps the fluid warm at the cost of some fuel. Mostly diesels use this, but it works very well. AND it does not have to be plugged in. This option is available for gas too, although it gets really pricey. Might have to be the new option tho.

I'm also not sure I agree with the fill for life thing. ALTHOUGH many new gearboxes and such on farming machinery are claiming this same thing. Everything is sealed and requires no maintenance. I have yet to hear of anyone having to service those boxes, just from normal wear that is. So maybe its finally getting to trucks? We also have to remember this is a fully electronic tranny, meaning no shift linkages.
Also do add to the fact that those trucks have been tested, yes I know its going to be worse in actual driving conditions. But still, why would ram release a product that isn't proven?

I guess only time will tell, but I did hear rumors that this option was not available in the rams till late spring? In which case those of you who are worried don't have to be.

 

First, keep in mind that the term "plastic" refers to any form of organic materials formed by polymerization. There are many types of plastic materials, some very strong, and some stronger than some metals. I haven't a clue what the material type is at the moment. Could it be a problem? I don't think anyone knows at this point.

The subject of preheating the ATF is now moot point for the 2013s as this new transmission will incorporate a preheat system to ensure the fluid comes up to temperature as quickly as possible, even in cold temperatures.

As for the fill-for-life fluid, I don't know. For those too young to remember, the A904s and A726s were also fill for life unless Dexron-Mercon was added. I know a lot of old Mopars that never had their trannies touched and the transmissions outlived the rest of the car! From what I'm being told the Torqueflite 8 will not use Chrysler's proprietary ATF-4, but something unique to the ZF at $43 a quart.

The 8-speed (ZF) Torqueflite 8 behind the Hemi is not scheduled to be available until after April or May of 2013.

Bests,
Dusty

 

The newer Fords did away with the dipstick also so this is not unique to Chrysler.

 

Some GM cars didn't get a dipstick, either.

 

does anyone know if the 2013 truck is going to have an urea tank like the ford and chevs?? If so, i'll keep my super low mileage 2001..

 

I have a 2001 5.9L Cummins also and get great mileage on highway trips. Yeah, the new diesels will have the urea injection. Ram has had the urea system on their chassis cabs for quite some time now. I have not heard of any issues with those systems. The fill tube is supposed to be somewhere near the rear on the front cab? The urea system should help fuel mileage, as the exhaust will be less restricted than the current setup. Lots of new changes coming I read for the 2500/3500 trucks. New frame, suspension, three different transmission options each with its own power level, interior like the new 1/2 ton models. The most intriguing change is the eletronic disconnecting front axle from the transfer case, essentially making a 4x4 truck a 4x2 truck. Ram is saying this should help fuel mileage at highway speeds by at least 1 mpg.