The Chrysler 42RE or A500SE 4-speed automatic transmission was assembled from 1993 to 2004 and installed on models with a 3.9-liter Magnum engine or a 4.0-liter AMC 242. In many countries, this automatic transmission is known from the first- and second-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV.
Specifications
| Type | automatic transmission |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Type of drive | rear / all wheel |
| Engine volume, l | up to 4.0 |
| Torque output, Nm | up to 320 |
| Recommended oil | Mopar ATF+4 (MS-9602) |
| Oil capacity, liter | 12.4 |
| Replacing the oil | every 60 000 km |
| Replacing the filter | every 60 000 km |
| Gearbox lifespan, km | ~350 000 km |
Gear ratios Chrysler 42RE
Using the 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 4.0-liter engine as an example:
| Main | 3.73 |
| 1st | 2.74 |
| 2nd | 1.54 |
| 3rd | 1.00 |
| 4th | 0.69 |
| Reverse | 2.21 |
Using
The transmission was installed on:
- Dodge Dakota 1 (AN) in 1993 – 1996;
- Dodge Dakota 2 (DN) in 1996 – 2003;
- Dodge Durango 1 (DN) in 1997 – 2000;
- Dodge Ram 2 (DR) in 1994 – 2001;
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 1 (ZJ) in 1993 – 1998;
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 2 (WJ) in 1998 – 2004.
Disadvantages of the Chrysler 42RE gearbox
- This is a very reliable and durable transmission, but problems do occur at high mileage;
- The torque converter clutch needs to be replaced every 150,000 km, otherwise the solenoids will become clogged with dirt;
- A drop in pressure causes the clutches in the Direct and Forward clutch packs to burn out;
- Closer to 250,000 km, the brake band and reverse drum usually need to be replaced;
- Weak points include the centrifugal regulator and the unreliable wiring.
