The 2000 Dodge Ram 3500 did not have a single standard transmission. Most diesel-powered trucks used a 47RE four-speed automatic, while a five-speed manual NV4500 was offered on certain configurations; some gasoline models used older four- or five-speed automatics. The exact transmission depends on engine and build specs, so checking the VIN or the transmission markings is the best way to confirm.
Transmission options by engine and trim
In the 2000 Ram 3500 lineup, transmission choices varied by the available engine. The diesel-equipped models were the most common in the 3500 range, with two primary options. A look at the engine and options can help identify the hardware installed.
Diesel option: Cummins 5.9L 24V
- 47RE automatic (four-speed, electronically controlled with lockup)
- NV4500 manual five-speed (factory option on certain diesel builds)
Diesel Ram 3500s from this era most often featured the 47RE automatic, with the NV4500 manual available on some configurations for customers who favored a manual transmission.
Gasoline option: V8 engines
- 46RE or related automatic (older four-speed automatic behind a gasoline V8, depending on the exact model year and cab configuration)
Gasoline-powered 2000 Ram 3500s used different automatics compared with the diesel models, reflecting the transmission families Dodge offered alongside the gas V8 lineup.
How to tell which transmission your truck has
Use these steps to verify the actual transmission installed in your Ram 3500. A quick check can save you from ordering the wrong parts or chasing the wrong replacement.
- Inspect the gear shifter: a floor-mounted lever with a typical PRNDL indicator points to an automatic; a clutch pedal and a manual-pattern shifter indicate a manual transmission.
- Look for a clutch pedal (left of the brake): presence means a manual transmission (likely NV4500); absence means an automatic (likely 46RE or 47RE, depending on engine).
- Check the transmission housing for markings: stamps like 47RE, NV4500, or 46RE can be found on the bellhousing or pan and help confirm the exact model.
- Cross-check the VIN or door sticker: factory transmission codes can be decoded to identify the original transmission version for your truck.
- Note the bellhousing and crossmember configuration: manual and automatic transmissions have distinct bellhousing patterns and mount setups.
With the model number or VIN-derived code, you can verify the exact transmission specification and ensure you source the correct parts and service information.
Maintenance considerations and common notes
Specific maintenance needs differ between the two main families. Automatic transmissions (47RE, 46RE) require attention to fluid level, service intervals, and potential solenoid or valve-body issues, while the NV4500 manual needs regular clutch maintenance, proper fluid for the manual gearbox, and attention to gear wear. If you’re diagnosing problems, start with confirming the exact transmission model and reviewing the service history for related components.
Summary
The 2000 Dodge Ram 3500 offered at least two transmission families depending on configuration: the common 47RE four-speed automatic behind many Cummins diesels, and the NV4500 five-speed manual on select diesel builds, with some gasoline models using an older 46RE/46RH automatic. To confirm which transmission your truck has, check the gear shifter, look for a clutch pedal, inspect for identifying markings on the transmission, and reference the VIN-derived build code. Accurate identification ensures proper parts compatibility and maintenance.