68RFE Sprag Clutch

When a 6.7L Cummins Ram slips on takeoff in Drive, binds or flares on the 1-2 shift, or only pulls in manual low, a common cause is worn elements in the 68RFE low/reverse sprag. This is a new BorgWarner heavy-duty low sprag kit, part number 50309AM, cross-referenced to the original Chrysler number 52119741AA, for the 68RFE in Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks. It includes the caged sprag assembly, the retaining snap ring and two retaining plates, which are the parts that actually wear, so you can reuse the race already in your transmission.

What the sprag does in a 68RFE

The 68RFE uses three planetary gearsets and one overrunning clutch. In Drive first gear the underdrive clutch provides input and the sprag holds the low/reverse gear train against the case. ATSG notes the low/reverse clutch is applied only while output speed is below about 150 rpm in first gear, so once the truck is rolling the sprag carries the load alone. At the 1-2 shift it simply overruns. Each sprag element is a small tilted strut held between an inner and outer race; turned one way the struts wedge tight, turned the other way they slip. When the strut faces wear or the end caps and retaining plates loosen, the struts can tip over and stop wedging, and first gear gets weak.

Symptoms of worn sprag elements

• Engine flares on takeoff in Drive while the truck barely moves, worst when towing
• A 1-2 bind-up or 1-2 flare; Sonnax traces both to worn low/reverse sprag parts
• The truck pulls normally in manual low, which keeps the low/reverse clutch applied, but slips in Drive first
• Reverse and the upper gears feel normal
• A first-gear ratio code such as P0731 with a slip you can feel

How to confirm before you buy

A slipping sprag and a low/reverse hydraulic leak can feel alike, so check the hydraulics first. If reverse is also slow to engage, test the switch valve and valve body as shown in our 68RFE valve body guide. Make sure speed sensors are reading correctly, since a bad input or output sensor can set a ratio code on a good transmission; see the 68RFE speed sensor guide. Once the unit is apart, look at the race: if the race surface is smooth and only the elements, caps and plates are worn, this kit is the fix. If the race is pitted, cracked or blued, you need a complete assembly like our used OEM 68RFE low/reverse assembly instead.

Fitment

The kit is listed as a direct replacement for the 68RFE in Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with the 6.7L Cummins, under OE number 52119741AA, with BorgWarner 141322AM as a superseded number. The listing names the 2007.5 through 2012 truck years in its cross-reference, and the 68RFE kept this sprag position in later years, but Chrysler revised the transmission several times. Compare the element count and the width of the cage with your old sprag, check the OE number if your original still has it, or send us your year and VIN. More parts for this unit are on our 68RFE parts page.

Install notes

• The transmission must come out and the geartrain must be disassembled to reach the sprag.
• Clean and inspect both race surfaces before you reuse them. Run a fingernail across them; any step, flat spot or pitting means the race goes too.
• Install the cage so it locks in the same direction as your original, set the retaining plates on both sides and seat the snap ring fully in its groove. Check by hand that it holds one way and freewheels the other before you go further.
• A worn sprag usually comes with burnt clutch frictions, so this is a good time for a 68RFE clutch module or new frictions, along with fresh seals and gaskets.
• Flush the cooler, fill with ATF+4, set the level hot, and run the quick learn before you tow.

Does this kit include the race?

No. It includes the caged sprag assembly, the retaining snap ring and two retaining plates. You reuse your race if it is smooth and undamaged.

What OE number does it replace?

The listing cross-references Chrysler 52119741AA. The BorgWarner number is 50309AM, superseding 141322AM.

Which trucks does it fit?

The 68RFE in Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with the 6.7L Cummins. If you are working on a later truck, compare the cage with your original or send us the VIN.

Is a roller clutch upgrade better than a sprag?

Roller-clutch replacements for this position are sold for high-horsepower and heavy-towing trucks. For a stock or lightly modified truck with a good race, a new heavy-duty sprag restores the original design.

What should I replace at the same time?

Seals and gaskets, the filter, any burnt clutch frictions, and the cooler flush. If reverse was also slow, address the low/reverse switch valve in the valve body.

What fluid does the 68RFE use?

ATF+4. Check the level with the fluid hot and run the quick learn after the repair.

• 68RFE Valve Body Problems: Symptoms, How to Test, and Replacement
• 68RFE Input and Output Speed Sensor Symptoms, Testing and the P0716 Trap
• 68RFE Ram 3500 Cummins Common Problems and Fixes
• 68RFE Ram 3500 Cummins Shift Problems: Diagnosis and Fix