RAM 3500 SRW - Aisin vs. 68RFE - Update

Looking at new trucks - seems hard to find the Aisin in stock. Are the benefits worth the premium price? I tow in the Rockies (Idaho/Wyoming/Montana) so I suspect the Aisin may be worth it if the integration between the transmission/engine/exhaust brake/cruise control is ironed out. But, if the 68RFE is adequate, I can take my pick off the lot and negotiate a better price at the end of December.

Appreciate any thoughts or advice by current/former owners - thanks.

I am not a current or former Aisin owner, but most likley a future owner now looking at new Rams. I would consider the Aisin cost, the cost of trans servcies and the resale. Both transmissions would be fine if you are towing your current Jayco. If you go bigger on the RV, the Aisin would probably be better. However, since you are looking for a new truck the extra Aisin cost is almost insignificant compared to the cost of the truck, the torque and hp is more, and the transmission is stronger, all plusses.

I can't imagine that Dave Smith does not stock plenty of Rams with the Aisin. Maybe check with them before settling for the 68RFE.

I've had both trannys, and as stated, the Aisin tranny with Cummins gives you more TQ and HP. The 68RFE is a more than capable tranny.I Had it in a 2010 and '12, towing my 5er loaded to 16,000# all through the mountains of NC, TN, VA and WV with zero issues. Either will work just fine. I ordered truck in my Sig with the Aisin more out of curiosity than anything else. The higher HP and TQ and the fact that it's a medium duty tranny strapped to a medium duty diesel made it my choice for my retirement truck. I have 25,000 miles on my truck and other than replacing the windshield washer motor, truck has been trouble free.


...bottom line, you can't go wrong with either.

I have the 68RFE on my truck, and tow through the Rockies (up to 17000 pounds) and have no complaints with it. About 38000 miles so far.

I have the Aisen. It is a very HD tranny. However, I believe the 68 is a VERY capable tranny. Unless you are towing a lot, up near the gross allowed, I am sure the 68 will do a good job for you.

The biggest difference is that the trucks with the 68RFE come with the 370hp/800 lbs-ft version of the 6.7L Cummins, and the trucks with the Aisin get 385hp/865 lbs-ft. The gear ratios are different between the two transmissions as well, and the Aisin gets a PTO output.

There is a thread on one of the Cummins forums I saw where a transmission shop/rebuilder has pictures of both torn down, and the internals of the Aisin are beefier. I did a quick google search but couldn't find it. Maybe someone else here knows.

The 68RFE is a very capable transmission that has enjoyed a much better than average reliability rate. I would not hesitate to buy a vehicle with one. The best part is the integration between the exhaust brake, service (foot) brake (amount of brake pedal pressure), and the attitude of the vehicle (going down steep grade) is remarkable.