When did the 46RE transmission come out?
The 46RE transmission, a popular automatic transmission used in various Chrysler vehicles, first came out in the early 1990s. This transmission was designed to provide a reliable and efficient power transfer system for Chrysler's lineup of cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Origins of the 46RE Transmission
The 46RE transmission was developed by Chrysler as an evolution of their earlier 42RE and 44RE transmissions. It was introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 42RE, offering improved performance and durability. The "46" in the name refers to the transmission's 46 gear teeth, while the "RE" stands for "Rear-wheel drive Electronic".
The 46RE was designed to be a robust and versatile transmission that could handle the power demands of Chrysler's larger vehicles, such as the Dodge Ram pickup and Jeep Grand Cherokee. It featured a fully electronic control system, which allowed for more precise shifting and better fuel efficiency compared to earlier hydraulic-based transmissions.
Applications and Usage
The 46RE transmission was widely used in Chrysler's rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Some of the models that utilized this transmission include:
- Dodge Ram pickup trucks (1994-2005)
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (1993-2004)
- Dodge Durango (1998-2003)
- Dodge Dakota (1997-2004)
- Chrysler Concorde, LHS, and 300M (1998-2004)
The 46RE was known for its robust design and ability to handle high torque loads, making it a popular choice for towing and off-road applications. Over the years, Chrysler continued to refine and improve the 46RE, introducing updated versions such as the 47RE and 48RE to address evolving performance and efficiency requirements.
Conclusion
The 46RE transmission played a significant role in Chrysler's vehicle lineup for over a decade, providing reliable and efficient power transfer for a wide range of models. Its introduction in the early 1990s marked an important milestone in the evolution of Chrysler's transmission technology, paving the way for future advancements in the company's powertrain offerings.
