Is the 68RFE really that bad, or does it just need a better tune?

[DieselWright]

I’m looking at a 2500, but everyone tells me to jump to the 3500 just to get the Aisin transmission. How much abuse can the stock 68RFE actually take if I’m only towing 12k lbs? I’ve heard a TCM tune and a better valve body can fix the 'clunky' shifting. What is the mileage limit before these things usually let go? I don't want to be shopping for a built trans after only 50k miles.

 

[RawTension]

The 68RFE isn't 'bad,' it's just misunderstood. For a 12k lbs trailer, it’s plenty of transmission—AS LONG AS you don't drive like a race car driver. The biggest killer of the 68RFE is heat and excessive torque at low RPMs. If you keep the truck stock and stay on top of fluid changes, 150k-200k miles isn't out of the question. However, the Aisin is definitely a beefier unit for constant heavy towing. If you're 2500-bound, just be prepared to drive it with some respect.