Here's my story sad but true.......or the title could be "another tragic tale of the G56":
I picked up a 2005 2500 quad cab short bed 4x4 Cummins on August 30. I typically would have ordered what I wanted. But between employee pricing and other incentives on 2005 models, I started looking for a manual trans 4x4 truck. I found just about the right truck at a Northern NJ dealership. The only stickler was the G56 trans. I finally convinced myself, "how bad could be it be? DC can't be putting bad trannys in these trucks." So I purchased the truck.

Well I am here to tell you that my truck, with less than 500 miles on the OD, is sitting at that same NJ dealership waiting for the new G56 trans to arrive from Michigan this week or next.

I have no word from the dealer what the mode of failure was. I was assured that I will be getting a "new" trans (not rebuilt).......wish it was a 5600!

The symptoms that slowly appeared at 200-300 miles were 1) the trans was getting increasingly difficult to put into 1st or 2nd gear while at a standstill - other gears were fine 2) there was an ever increasing audible growl or ugly noise when the clutch was released in neutral 3) if in 1st or 2nd gear and the clutch was pushed in to coast, there was a severe lurching during the coasting as if the clutch was not dis-engaging completely.

I don't have access to the paperwork because I am on business travel this week. However, if it matters, I believe the truck was built in May or June '05. It is an SLT with the Thunder Road package and a few other doo dads.

I sold my 98.5 Cummins 5 speed with 180K miles on the OD to my brother. I should ask him if he wants to trade.

Robert

 

Sounds like an early one without enough oil in it. Guess it slipped by some how. Mine is doing great so far. 2300 miles and not a single problem. The close ratio makes it nice pulling the Deere around.

 

My guess also.

MikeyB

 

DmaxEter,
Thanks for the reply and for the vote of confidence on the G56.

I have read some things on the various forums about the G56 needing an extra quart of oil above the fill port. Is this accurate? Does anyone know why the fill port was put in the wrong place to start with? It is my understanding that this trans has been around a while in Europe. I wonder if the European applications have the same problem with fluid level.

Anyway, I am happy Dodge is jumping on it. I love the truck and if my confidence in the trans is improved then I will be the proverbial happy camper.

Robert

 

I cant swear to it, but I think it was a mcahining issue with where the hole was machined causing it to be a quart low. If they replace it with a new one, it shouldn't be a problem again for you.