I have owned 7 Dodge CTD trucks, but never a 3rd gen.

My brother recently purchased a:
2004 Dodge Ram 3500 QC, SRW, SWB.
Build Date on the truck is 11/03.
Horsepower Rating on the engine placard is 305.

I have been told that the 2003 Model CTD's with automatics that were NON-"HO" had the old, junk transmissions... I know that this is a 2004 model truck, but it is an early 2004. the sticker on the valve cover says the engine meets EPA regulations for 2003 model year diesel engines - has the engine possibly been swapped on this truck?

Anyway... the trans seems to shift good on flat ground and reasonable grades while at any throttle position. BUT- our driveway is 1/2 mile long and includes a VERY steep grade. The transmission seems to slip while shifting into 2nd and 3rd while going up this steep hill.. does not matter if you are pouring the coals or trying to ease it up.

I'm looking for a place to start troubleshooting this problem. The first thing I need to know is what transmission is in this truck. How can I tell for sure?

Any suggestions are welcome and appreciated.

 

Should be a 48RE if it's a 305hp engine, I'm fairly sure anyway. Can someone confirm this for us?

 

The 47RE was phased out in Jan 03 and replaced with the 48RE. The HO motors NEVER had the 47RE, only the early SO/Cali models.