Replaces the 42RLE transmission solenoid block pack and includes a new filter and pan gasket for 2003-2012 Jeep, Dodge Ram, Dakota, Durango and Chrysler 300.
If your Jeep Liberty, Wrangler, Dodge Nitro or 2.7L Chrysler 300 has started pulling away in second gear, will not upshift, and shows a shift solenoid or pressure switch code, the 42RLE solenoid block is the usual suspect. This kit packages a new solenoid block pack with a pan filter and a pan gasket, which is exactly what the job needs: on the 42RLE the block lives inside the pan, so you are draining the fluid and pulling the filter anyway. It replaces OE numbers 52854001AA, 04799061AB, 04800171AA and 5143151AA.
The 42RLE is the rear-drive cousin of the 41TE and 42LE, and like them it has no bands. Every shift is one clutch releasing while another applies, and the transmission controller times all of it by switching the solenoids in this block. The block also carries the pressure switches that tell the controller a clutch circuit actually filled. Unlike the front-drive 41TE, whose block bolts to the outside of the case, the 42RLE block is mounted to the valve body inside the transmission. When a solenoid stops responding or a switch stops reporting, the controller cannot confirm the gear, so it defaults to second gear to protect the unit.
Read every stored code and check the fluid first. A circuit code on clean, full ATF+4 points at the block, its connector or the wiring. Do not skip the connector: Transmission Digest notes that Chrysler issued TSB 21-009-05 for moisture and corrosion in the 42RLE solenoid pack harness connector, so inspect the pins for green corrosion before condemning the block. Torque converter clutch or switch valve codes can come from a worn solenoid switch valve bore in the valve body instead, and our 41TE/A604 Ultradrive problems guide explains how to tell them apart using clutch volume index readings. If the real complaint is slipping under throttle, start with the slipping-under-load guide instead.
This kit is listed for 42RLE-equipped vehicles including the Jeep Liberty (2.4L 2003-2005, 3.7L 2003-2011), Jeep Wrangler (2.4L and 4.0L 2003-2006, 3.8L 2007-2011), Dodge Nitro and Mitsubishi Raider with the 3.7L, Ram 1500 with the 3.7L V6, and the V6 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Magnum. Many V8 trucks of the same years used the 45RFE or 545RFE, which take a completely different pack, so confirm the transmission tag says 42RLE, compare the connector on your old block, or send us your year and VIN and we will check it. Later 42RLE units with variable line pressure keep the same solenoid pack, but their line pressure solenoid and sensor are separate parts with their own connector, so this kit does not replace them. See every part for this family on our 41TE and 42RLE collection page.
Drain the fluid, remove the pan and the old filter, then unplug the case connector and lower the valve body far enough to reach the solenoid block screws. Keep the valve body level so check balls stay in place. Clean the mating face, fit the new block with its seal, tighten the screws to the factory specification and reinstall the valve body. Fit the new filter and pan gasket, refill with ATF+4 only, and check the level hot in Neutral. Clear codes and run the Quick Learn with a scan tool, or the controller will keep its old clutch fill values and the first shifts will feel wrong. If the pan shows heavy clutch material, a 42RLE overhaul kit is the better spend, and if the valve body bores are worn, consider the 42RLE valve body with solenoid block.
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Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
Yes. On the 42RLE the solenoid and pressure switch block is mounted to the valve body inside the transmission, which is why this kit includes a new filter and pan gasket. The front-drive 41TE is different: its block bolts to the outside of the case.
It will if the block is the cause. Check the codes and the solenoid pack connector first, because corroded pins can trigger the same second-gear limp mode. If the codes point to gear ratio errors with burnt fluid, the problem is worn clutches, not the block.
ATF+4. Refill after the pan is back on and check the level with the engine running, the fluid hot and the shifter in Neutral.
Yes. Clear the codes and run the Quick Learn procedure with a capable scan tool so the controller relearns clutch fill times for the new block.
Only if that truck has a 42RLE. Many V8 trucks from those years used the 45RFE or 545RFE, which use a different solenoid pack. Check the transmission tag or send us your year and VIN before ordering.
