Here's a general overview. Specific steps might vary slightly depending on your exact truck configuration:
Tools You'll Need:
* Socket set: Various sizes, including metric and standard.
* Wrenches: Both metric and standard, including open-end and combination.
* Torque wrench: Essential for properly tightening bolts to prevent damage.
* Transmission jack or hoist: Absolutely necessary to support the transmission's weight. Improper support can lead to serious injury or damage.
* Drain pan: For transmission fluid.
* Funnel: For refilling transmission fluid.
* New governor pressure sensor and solenoid: Make sure you get the correct parts for your specific 46RE transmission.
* Shop rags: Plenty of them!
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from fluid spills and sharp edges.
* Possibly a deep socket and extension depending on the access to the sensor and solenoid.
General Steps (This is NOT a comprehensive guide, consult a repair manual):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Vehicle Preparation: Raise the vehicle securely using jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Fluid Drainage: Drain the transmission fluid. This is messy, so be prepared.
4. Transmission Access: You'll need to access the transmission's side, likely requiring removal of some components to get to the governor. This may involve removing the driveshaft, exhaust components, or other parts depending on the specific model year and your access. A repair manual is essential at this stage to identify what needs to be removed.
5. Governor Removal: Once you have access to the governor, carefully disconnect the electrical connector. Then, remove the governor pressure sensor and solenoid assembly. This often involves removing bolts and carefully maneuvering the assembly out. Pay close attention to how it's positioned and any seals or gaskets.
6. Installation: Install the new sensor and solenoid, ensuring it's seated correctly and securely. Replace any seals or gaskets as needed.
7. Reassembly: Reinstall all components you removed to access the governor.
8. Fluid Refill: Refill the transmission with the correct type and amount of ATF fluid, as specified in your owner's manual. You'll likely need to check the fluid level with the engine running.
9. Testing: Lower the vehicle and test drive it carefully, paying close attention to shifting performance.
Crucial Considerations:
* Repair Manual: Obtain a repair manual specific to your 2000 Dodge Ram 1500 46RE transmission. This is absolutely essential. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions. Haynes and Chilton manuals are good options, or you can find online resources.
* Transmission Fluid: Use the correct type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) specified for your transmission. Using the wrong fluid can severely damage the transmission.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Overtightening can strip threads or damage components, while under tightening can lead to leaks.
* Cleanliness: Keep the area clean to prevent debris from entering the transmission.
This is a complex job. If you're not comfortable performing these steps, take your vehicle to a qualified transmission specialist. Improper repair can lead to significant transmission damage, costing far more than the initial repair would have.
