545RFE Clutch Drum 1999-2006, used and ready to install. Fits the 545RFE. Ships fast from the USA.
Losing second and fourth gear, or fifth on a five-speed, in a 1999-2006 Durango, Ram 1500, Dakota or Grand Cherokee often traces back to the 2-4 clutch retainer at the rear of the case. This listing is filed as a clutch drum, but what you get is that retainer: a used Chrysler 2-4 clutch retainer for the 45RFE and 545RFE, the aluminum-piston version, casting number 4799517 and Chrysler part number 4799498AB. Shops also call it the 4C retainer or bulkhead. If you need an input drum, look at our other listings instead.
Unlike the input drum, this part does not spin. It is locked into the case and works as a holding member, carrying two pistons: the 2C piston, pushed back by a Belleville spring, and the 4C piston with its own return spring. When either one applies, it clamps a clutch pack against the case to hold part of the geartrain still. According to Chrysler's 545RFE application chart, 2C is applied in second and fifth, 4C in second prime and fourth. A leaking piston, a cracked bore or a return spring ring that has walked out of its groove will therefore show up in those gears and nowhere else, which is a useful clue when you are diagnosing.
Compare the gears that slip with the clutch chart. Slip only in second and fifth points at 2C; slip in fourth and second prime points at 4C. Solenoid and valve body faults produce the same complaints, so check codes, solenoid resistance and line pressure first using our 45RFE shift solenoid guide and the valve body testing guide. Once the unit is apart, air-check the 2C and 4C circuits; a piston that leaks down or will not stroke means the retainer or its seals have to be addressed. Sonnax notes the factory 4C return spring retaining ring can unseat and cause a failure, so inspect that ring on every teardown.
The listing covers 1999-2006 45RFE and 545RFE transmissions with the aluminum 2C/4C piston. Chrysler later released a revised 2nd and 4th clutch piston retainer, and the parts catalog lists it across the 45RFE, 545RFE and 65RFE, so not every retainer in these years is the same design. Compare your old part with this one: aluminum piston, casting 4799517. If yours differs, send us your year, model and VIN before ordering. Everything else for these transmissions is on the 45RFE and 545RFE collection page.
New frictions, steels and seals for both packs come in the 545RFE Banner rebuild kit, and a known-good 45RFE solenoid kit removes the electrical side as a cause of repeat 2C or 4C burn.
| Fits | 545RFE 1999-2006 |
| Part type | Clutch Drum |
| Condition | Used |
| Brand | OEM |
| Ships | From the USA |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
It is the 2-4 clutch retainer, also called the 4C retainer or bulkhead. It holds the 2C and 4C pistons and is fixed in the case rather than rotating like the input drum.
Chrysler part number 4799498AB, casting number 4799517, with an aluminum piston. Match the casting on your old retainer before you order.
On the 545RFE the 2C clutch is used in second and fifth and the 4C clutch in second prime and fourth. On the 45RFE the same clutches give second and fourth.
Yes. The listing covers 1999-2006 45RFE and 545RFE transmissions with the aluminum piston design.
2C and 4C piston seals, the frictions and steels for both packs, and the filter. Inspect the 4C return spring retaining ring and the solenoid pack while the unit is apart.
ATF+4 only. Run the Quick Learn after assembly so the controller adapts to the new 2C and 4C clearances.
