The 46RE was used primarily in Dodge Ram pickups in the mid-1990s, especially the 1993–1998 Ram 1500/2500/3500 range, with 5.2L and 5.9L V8 engines.
To understand the scope of the question, it helps to look at the transmission’s place in Mopar’s lineup, which models adopted it, and how to confirm its presence in a used truck or parts bin.
What is the 46RE?
The 46RE is a four-speed automatic transmission built by Chrysler that uses electronic control. It was used in a range of light- to medium-duty applications in the 1990s, delivering hydraulic control and electronic shift logic coordinated with the vehicle’s computer systems.
Which trucks used the 46RE?
Before listing the primary applications, keep in mind that the following are the most common Dodge vehicles that used the 46RE in the 1990s.
- Dodge Ram pickups (Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500) equipped with 5.2L (318) or 5.9L (360) V8 engines, roughly 1993–1998.
In addition to the Ram pickups, some late-1990s Dodge trucks and sport/utility models shared the same powertrain family, so the 46RE could appear in related configurations depending on market and options. Always verify with the vehicle’s VIN or transmission code to confirm.
In short, the 46RE is most closely associated with Dodge Ram pickups from the mid-1990s and their closest Mopar siblings that used the same V8 engines.
How to identify a 46RE
To verify a 46RE in a vehicle, look for these identifying indicators and attributes.
- Case stamping: many 46RE units have a stamped designation on the bell housing area or side of the case showing “46RE” (or closely related codes in the same family).
- Electronic controls: presence of an electronic transmission control module (TCM) or wiring harness that interfaces with the engine control module (ECM).
- Valve body and solenoids: multiple external solenoids and an electronically controlled valve body typical of Mopar electronic four-speed transmissions of the era.
- Model year context: commonly found in Dodge Ram 1993–1998 configurations with V8 powertrains; diesel versions used different families.
If you’re unsure, check the vehicle’s documentation, VIN, or consult a Mopar transmission guide or a qualified shop to confirm the exact transmission family.
Common variants and compatibility
The 46RE is part of a broader family of Chrysler electronic four-speed transmissions (including 42RE, 44RE, 46RE, 47RE, and 48RE) used across various models and engines during the 1990s and early 2000s. The 46RE served as the mid-range option in that lineup before newer variants were introduced for heavier-duty applications and diesels.
Summary
The 46RE is a four-speed, electronically controlled automatic transmission best known for powering mid-1990s Dodge Ram pickups (and closely related Mopar models) with V8 powertrains. If you’re sourcing parts or verifying a vehicle, focus on Dodge Ram 1993–1998 configurations with the 5.2L/5.9L engines, and check case markings and the presence of an electronic control system to confirm the transmission type.