Anonymous insider source tells TFLtruck that Ram Trucks is considering to stop using Aisin 6-speed heavy duty automatic transmissions in their Ram HD trucks. What kind of transmission will the new diesel trucks use? The source says that two choices are being considered for the Cummins-powered diesel trucks: a ZF 8-speed automatic or a new 9-speed Allison automatic. What?! Let’s break down this news.
The current Ram HD trucks (3/4-ton and 1-ton) are using a selection of three unique transmissions: Ram 6-speed automatic (code: 68RFE), ZF 8-speed automatic (code: 8HP75), and an Aisin 6-speed automatic (code: AS69RC).
The ZF 8-speed is currently backing up the 6.4-liter HEMI V8. The Ram 68RFE is backing up a standard-output 6.7-liter Cummins I6, and the Aisin continues to serve with the high-output 6.7-liter Cummins I6 turbo-diesel.
(You can watch our latest 30,000 lbs towing test of a 2020 Ram HD 3500 high-output diesel below.)
Will Ram switch its entire HD truck lineup to use various versions of the ZF 8-speed automatic? Our insider source did not say, but the report suggests that Ram is evaluating options between using ZF or Allison automatic transmissions. The goals include improving capability, drivability, and HD truck market share.
