Cummins Transmission Guide

Cummins Transmission Guide: 1994 to Present Dodge Ram Trucks

If you're driving a Cummins-powered Dodge or Ram truck or shopping for one, you've probably wondered which transmissions have been paired with the legendary 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins engines over the years. Whether you're into towing, diesel performance, or just keeping your truck on the road, understanding your Dodge Ram Cummins transmission is a big part of the equation.

Here's a complete guide to the automatic and manual transmissions that have been used with Cummins engines from 1994 to today.

1994 to 1998 (12-Valve 5.9L Cummins)

Automatic Transmissions:

• 47RH (Hydraulic) – 4-speed automatic with a lock-up torque converter. Not electronically controlled. Found in 1994 and 1995 Dodge Ram Cummins trucks.
• 47RE (Electronic) – Introduced in 1996. Electronically controlled version of the 47RH. Used through 2002 in Dodge Ram trucks.

Manual Transmissions:

• NV4500 (5-Speed Manual) – One of the most reliable 5-speed manual transmissions used in Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks.
• Getrag G360 – Rare by 1994 but still found in a few early-year Dodge Cummins trucks.

1998.5 to 2002 (24-Valve VP44 5.9L Cummins)

Automatic Transmissions:

• 47RE – Carried over from late 12-valve models. Still a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Manual Transmissions:

• NV4500 – Continued use in 5-speed applications.
• NV5600 (6-Speed Manual) – Introduced later in this era. Stronger than the NV4500 and favored for towing and performance in Dodge Ram Cummins trucks.

2003 to 2007 (Common Rail 5.9L Cummins)

Automatic Transmissions:

• 48RE – Updated version of the 47RE. Improved torque capacity and better internal components. Still a 4-speed transmission.

Manual Transmissions:

• NV5600 – Continued early in this generation but phased out around 2005.
• G56 (6-Speed Manual) – Replaced the NV5600. Known for smoother shifting but has an aluminum case that may flex under high torque.

2007.5 to 2012 (6.7L Cummins)

Automatic Transmissions:

• 68RFE (6-Speed Automatic) – First 6-speed automatic transmission behind the 6.7L Cummins. Better daily drivability but known to need upgrades for heavy towing or high performance.

Manual Transmissions:

• G56 (6-Speed Manual) – Only manual option offered during this time. Used in Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks.

2013 to 2018 (6.7L Cummins)

Automatic Transmissions:

• 68RFE – Continued use with some updates. Still limited in tuning potential without aftermarket upgrades.
• Aisin AS69RC (6-Speed Automatic) – Available in high output Cummins-equipped Ram 3500 and up. Much stronger than the 68RFE but more expensive to service.

Manual Transmissions:

• G56 – Continued through 2018. This was the last manual transmission offered in a heavy-duty diesel pickup truck.

2019 to Present (6.7L Cummins)

Automatic Transmissions Only:

• 68RFE – Used in most standard output Cummins-powered Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks.
• Aisin AS69RC – Used exclusively in high output 6.7L Cummins applications, including Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks. Designed for heavy towing and commercial use.

Manual transmission options were discontinued after 2018.

Dodge Ram Cummins Transmission Quick Reference Table

Year Range	Engine	Automatic Transmissions	Manual Transmissions
1994 to 1995	5.9L (12v)	47RH	NV4500, G360 (rare)
1996 to 2002	5.9L (12v/24v)	47RE	NV4500, NV5600
2003 to 2007	5.9L (CR)	48RE	NV5600, G56
2007.5 to 2012	6.7L	68RFE	G56
2013 to 2018	6.7L	68RFE, Aisin AS69RC	G56
2019 to Present	6.7L	68RFE, Aisin AS69RC	None

Final Thoughts on Dodge Ram Cummins Transmissions

When it comes to Cummins-powered Dodge Ram trucks, the transmission makes all the difference. Whether you're building a towing setup, daily driver, or performance diesel truck, knowing what transmission you have and what it's capable of is critical.

If you're looking to upgrade or replace a transmission for your 5.9L or 6.7L Cummins engine, contact our team or browse our catalog. We carry performance parts, rebuild kits, and expert advice to keep your Ram Cummins running strong.

By: Adam