We run 5 Dodge trucks in our company both gas and diesel, and various model years.

We recently had to replace the trans in the 2007 2500 at 260k on the clock, and I believe it has the 5.9 Cummins. The dealer tells my partner that the torque converter pump is a known weak point, takes out the rest of the trans, must be replaced.

He had several options, including in-house rebuild, aftermarket rebuild,(with Chinese gears I'm told) and OEM original replacement, the most expensive option at $6k. (With a 3 year warranty)

He went with the OEM original.

Question: Did Dodge remedy the weak pump problem or did he just install a poorly designed OEM trans?

Should we have considered an aftermarket trans at a better value and performance point? What's the going rate on one?

I have to wonder if a good trans shop would have been a better choice.

Any comments or experience with this?

 

Man, at 260k miles I wouldn't complain about any part of the trans failing. Sounds like it lived a long life.

 

Purpose was to weight in about whether or not an OEM replacement at the dealer was the best value. Does the new trans include a redesign for the pump that is supposedly a known problem?

I'm lookin at aftermarket performance transmissions that might have been a better buy, with higher ratings, and possibly longer life?

 

Check out Goerend transmissions. Give them a call and ask your questions.

The OEM may be the second worst choice.... anything chinese being worst.

There are some really good aftermarket rebuilds using best quality clutches and steels (some with extra plates too), billet triple disc torque converters and etc for the same or similar money as the OEM.

ON EDIT: I just noticed you are in Discovery Bay. Check out Left Coast Diesel in Livermore/Concord. The are Goerend rebuilders and not too far away from you; give them a call and they can steer you right.