Cummins 68RFE Transmission Filter & Bypass FAQ
Q1: What transmission does the 6.7 Cummins use?
The 6.7 Cummins has been paired with three main transmissions in Ram trucks since 2007.5. The 68RFE is the most common, a 6-speed automatic found in the majority of 2007.5-2024 Ram 2500 and 3500 models, including the 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 6.7 diesel transmission and the 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins transmission. The G56 was a 6-speed manual transmission available from 2007.5-2018, making the Ram the last manual-transmission diesel truck sold in the US.
The 6.7 Cummins 6-speed manual was discontinued after the 2018 model year. The Aisin AS69RC is a heavy-duty 6-speed automatic used in 2013+ Ram 3500 High Output models. Our transmission filter kits and cooler bypass kits are designed for the 68RFE automatic transmission, which covers the vast majority of 6.7 Cummins trucks on the road.
Q2: How often should I change the transmission filter on my 6.7 Cummins 68RFE?
Ram's severe service interval for the 68RFE transmission filter and ATF+4 fluid is every 60,000 miles, but if you tow regularly, run performance tuning, or use your truck in extreme temperatures, we recommend a filter and fluid service every 45,000 miles. The 68RFE holds approximately 17.5 quarts total, but a standard pan-drop filter change only replaces about 7-8 quarts.
This is why consistent service intervals are critical: each filter change refreshes a portion of the fluid while the new filter captures remaining contaminants. Our Transmission Filter Kit for 6.7 Cummins RAM 2500/3500 (2007.5-2024) includes the correct filter and pan gasket for a complete service.
Q3: What does the P0700 code mean on a 6.7 Cummins?
P0700 is a generic Transmission Control Module (TCM) fault code that simply means the TCM has detected a problem and stored a more specific diagnostic code. On a 6.7 Cummins, P0700 is a "pointer code"; it tells you something is wrong with the transmission system, but you need a capable OBD-II scanner to read the companion codes that identify the actual fault.
Common companion codes include P0871 (transmission fluid pressure sensor range/performance), slipping clutch codes, and solenoid circuit codes. If you're seeing P0700 on your Dodge 6.7 transmission, start with checking the fluid level and condition, inspecting the transmission filter, and reading the full code set before assuming a major failure.
Q4: What does P0871 mean on a 6.7 Cummins 68RFE?
P0871 indicates a Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch "C" Range/Performance fault on the 68RFE transmission. This code means the TCM is detecting that the transmission fluid pressure in the "C" circuit is outside the expected range, which can be caused by degraded or low ATF+4 fluid, a clogged transmission filter restricting flow, a faulty pressure sensor, or internal valve body wear.
On a 2012 68RFE through 2018 model, P0871 often appears alongside P0700 and is frequently resolved by a fresh filter, clean fluid, and in some cases, a transmission cooler thermal bypass delete to restore proper fluid flow and operating temperature.
Q5: What is a transmission thermal bypass delete, and why do I need one?
The factory thermal bypass valve in the 2013-2018 Ram 2500 68RFE transmission acts as a thermostat that restricts fluid flow to the cooler until the transmission reaches approximately 170°F. While this helps warm the transmission faster in cold weather, it becomes a dangerous flow restriction during heavy towing, performance driving, or hot-weather operation.
A thermal bypass delete replaces this restrictive valve with a full-flow passage, allowing unrestricted cooler flow at all temperatures. For 6.7 Cummins 68RFE owners who regularly see transmission temperatures above 200°F, this simple 30-minute install can reduce peak temps by 20-30°F, a significant margin when you consider that ATF+4 fluid life is cut in half for every 20°F increase above 175°F.
Q6: What's the best transmission for a 6.7 Cummins?
For stock and mildly modified trucks, the factory 68RFE is a solid transmission when properly maintained — regular filter and fluid service with a thermal bypass delete keeps it reliable to well over 200,000 miles.
For higher power levels (500+ hp), the best aftermarket transmission for 6.7 Cummins applications is typically a built 68RFE from a reputable builder like Firepunk, ATS, or HTT, which upgrades the clutch packs, valve body, and torque converter to handle increased torque.
The Aisin AS69RC (found in 2013+ Ram 3500 High Output trucks) is stronger from the factory but has fewer aftermarket support options. Regardless of which transmission you run, the most cost-effective upgrade is preventative maintenance, a clean filter, fresh ATF+4, and unrestricted cooler flow, which will extend the life of any 6.7 Cummins transmission.
Q7: Was there a manual transmission option for the 6.7 Cummins?
Yes, the G56 6-speed manual transmission was available in the 6.7 Cummins from 2007.5 through 2018. The 6.7 Cummins 6-speed manual was the last manual transmission offered in a US-market diesel pickup truck. After the 2018 model year, Ram discontinued the G56 due to declining demand and the 68RFE's superior shift quality and fuel economy.
If you're looking for a 6.7 Cummins manual transmission for sale, used G56 trucks from 2008-2018 are your only option — there is no new manual 6.7 Cummins. Note that our transmission filter kits and cooler bypass kits are designed for the 68RFE automatic only and are not compatible with the G56 manual.
Q8: How much transmission fluid does a 6.7 Cummins 68RFE hold?
The 68RFE transmission in a 6.7 Cummins holds approximately 17.5 quarts (16.5 liters) of ATF+4 fluid when completely dry. A standard pan-drop filter service replaces about 7-8 quarts; the remaining fluid stays in the torque converter, cooler, and cooler lines.
This is why regular filter changes are so important: each service refreshes roughly half the total fluid volume. A full fluid exchange (using a machine to pump new fluid through while flushing the old) can replace nearly all 17.5 quarts but is more expensive. For most 2007-2022 Ram 2500 and 3500 owners, a pan-drop filter service every 45,000-60,000 miles with our Transmission Filter Kit provides excellent protection for the 6.7 Cummins automatic transmission.
Q9: Can I install the transmission filter kit and bypass kit myself?
Yes, both the transmission filter kit and the thermal bypass delete kit are designed for DIY installation with basic hand tools. The filter kit requires draining the transmission pan (about 7-8 quarts of ATF+4), removing the old filter, installing the new filter and pan gasket, and refilling with fresh fluid. Allow about 45-60 minutes.
The thermal bypass kit is even simpler; it replaces the factory bypass valve in the cooler line with a straight-through fitting in under 30 minutes. No special tools, no transmission removal, no fluid drain required for the bypass install. Both kits include detailed instructions, and our 24/7 live support team is available if you have any questions during installation on your 2007-2024 Dodge Ram 2500 or 3500 6.7 Cummins.
Q10: What is your return policy for 6.7 Cummins transmission products?
EGR Performance offers a 45-day hassle-free return policy on all 6.7 Cummins transmission filter kits and cooler bypass kits, plus a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. If the part doesn't fit your specific 2007.5-2024 Ram 2500, 3500, or 4500 application, or if you're not satisfied for any reason, contact our support team within 45 days for a full refund or exchange.
All products are tested under extreme conditions and guaranteed to perform. We stand behind every transmission filter kit and thermal bypass kit we sell for the 6.7 Cummins 68RFE.