Who makes Dodge manual transmissions?
Today, Tremec is the primary maker of Dodge’s manual transmissions, supplying the six-speed units used in modern Challenger and Charger variants. In earlier generations, Dodge sourced manuals from Borg-Warner and Getrag (now Magna Powertrain) as part of a broader supply-chain strategy. This mix reflects Dodge’s reliance on specialist gearbox builders to deliver performance-oriented manuals while maintaining flexibility across its lineup.
Current and historical suppliers
Dodge has depended on a small group of specialized gearbox manufacturers to supply its manual transmissions. The dominant partner in recent model years has been Tremec, with Borg-Warner and Magna Powertrain (the successor to Getrag) providing alternate or historical units. This arrangement underscores Dodge’s emphasis on performance while leveraging long-standing expertise from established transmission specialists.
Tremec: the current workhorse
Tremec supplies the manual transmissions used in the modern Dodge Challenger and Charger, notably six-speed configurations that are tuned for high torque and sporty driving. These Tremec units are designed to handle the demands of Dodge’s performance-oriented lineup and are a cornerstone of today’s manual-equipped models.
- Tremec TR-6060-based manuals are used in many current Dodge performance models (Challenger/Charger variants).
- Other Tremec manual gearboxes have appeared in Dodge across generations depending on model and market.
In this period, Tremec is the primary source for new Dodge manuals, though production arrangements can evolve with model updates and corporate decisions.
Historical and alternate suppliers
Earlier in its history, Dodge used Borg-Warner-manufactured manuals for certain vehicles, and Getrag — now Magna Powertrain — supplied Getrag-branded manuals that found their way into Dodge models through partnerships. These arrangements reflect a broader industry practice of automakers sourcing manuals from a handful of established specialists.
- Borg-Warner: An established supplier of manual transmissions to American automakers, including select Dodge models in the past.
- Magna Powertrain (Getrag): Getrag-built manuals have appeared in Dodge vehicles via Magna Powertrain, with Magna now handling Getrag’s offerings as part of its broader powertrain business.
These historical arrangements illustrate Dodge’s use of different specialists over time, shaped by model requirements and market conditions.
What this means for Dodge enthusiasts
For buyers and enthusiasts, the transmission’s supplier matters for service, parts availability, and the feel of the shift. Tremec’s involvement signals a focus on performance-oriented, durable manuals, while the presence of Borg-Warner and Magna Powertrain in older or special-edition models reflects a broader industry ecosystem that Dodge has tapped into over the years.
Summary
In the modern era, Dodge manual transmissions are primarily built by Tremec, with historical contributions from Borg-Warner and Magna Powertrain (Getrag). This arrangement aligns with Dodge’s performance-focused image and provides enthusiasts with a familiar, high-torque manual experience across current models, while older or special-edition vehicles reflect a broader supplier history. As Dodge's lineup evolves, Tremec remains the core partner for manual transmissions, ensuring continuity in shifting feel and reliability for enthusiasts.
Who has the best manual transmission?
Honda, Mazda, and Porsche have a near-100% awesome manual gearbox history in the last 25 years or so. Longer for Honda and Porsche.
Does Dodge still make manual transmissions?
Yes, Dodge still makes manual transmissions for certain models, specifically the Challenger R/T and Scat Pack with the 5.7L and 6.4L V8 engines respectively. However, the Challenger Hellcat models are no longer offered with a manual, though the brand reintroduced the manual for the 2023 model year after a temporary pause.
- Manual availability: You can still find manual transmission options on some Dodge Challenger models.
- Specific models:
- Challenger R/T: Available with a manual transmission.
- Challenger Scat Pack: Available with a manual transmission.
- No longer available:
- The Challenger Hellcat is no longer available with a manual transmission.
- The Dodge Charger has not been available with a manual transmission for some time.
When did RAM stop making manuals?
2018
When it comes to manual transmissions in a full size pickup truck, RAM was the last one standing. Discontinued after 2018, RAM followed GM (2006) and Ford (2010) in eliminating the manual transmission.
Does Dodge use Allison transmissions?
No, Dodge (now Ram) does not use Allison transmissions in its factory-built trucks; Ram has historically used transmissions from companies like Chrysler (TorqueFlite 48RE), ZF (8-speed automatic), and Aisin (AS68RC/AS69RC) in its diesel models. However, aftermarket conversion kits are widely available for Ram trucks with Cummins engines, allowing owners to swap a durable Allison transmission into their vehicle, according to Custom Automatic Conversions and ATS Diesel Performance.
Factory transmission options for Ram trucks
- Aisin: Ram trucks use Aisin transmissions, such as the AS68RC and AS69RC, in some of their heavy-duty models.
- ZF: Some Ram models feature a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Chrysler: In the past, Ram used the TorqueFlite 48RE automatic transmission in its trucks.
Aftermarket Allison conversions
- Available for Cummins engines: Many conversion kits are available for Ram trucks equipped with the 6.7L Cummins engine.
- Improved performance: Owners choose this conversion to improve durability, towing capacity, and handling, especially in heavy-duty applications.
- Seamless integration: Conversion kits often include a "translator" module that allows the Allison transmission's computer to communicate with the truck's existing electronics, preserving functions like push-button start and tow/haul mode.
