The A518, later 46RH (hydraulic) and 46RE (electronic), is an A727 derivative with overdrive. Starting in the early 1990s, it was used in trucks and vans. This is an ideal transmission to purchase as a from a reputable transmission supplier, since they are very abundant in quantity, considering many late model low mileage trucks which end up in the salvage yard wrecked, being a source of a quality used transmissions.
A bit more modern than the first Chrysler transmissions, the A-518 is also known as a 46RH transmission and was used extensively by Chrysler in the early to mid- ’90s as a replacement for the A-727. It is the heavier-duty cousin of the A-500 overdrive, typically used behind V-6 engines in the mid-’90s. However, the A-518 is based on the A-727 and they share some things in common, which makes them a nearly bullet proof transmission.
A later version of the A-518 is known as the 46RE, with E designating electronically controlled. This computer-controlled transmission first appeared on 1996 models. The first generation 46RH transmission controls were hydraulically activated similar to the manner an A-727 works throughout the first 3 shifts. However the overdrive gear is electronically activated through a set of sensors and a TCU.
Internals are different in the overdrive section, however, and not many components are interchangeable. The overdrive gear was designed to plug into the end of the transmission. Thus keeping the bullet proof 727 internal components. The A-518 also incorporated other internal upgrades related to the overdrive section. This transmission came in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations
This transmission and the A-727 use the same 14-bolt oil pan and the oil screen inside the pan also is identical. This makes identification a little more difficult when the unit is removed. The 46RH transmissions that were used from 1990-’95 have a three-pin electrical connector on the driver’s side of the transmission which controls two solenoids, the overdrive solenoid and the torque converter clutch solenoid.
The 1996 and up model 46RE units have an 8-pin connector instead of the 3-pin, and are fully computerized in operation.
When finding one of these units, it’s wise to choose a company that supplies used Chrysler transmissions that are fully pre tested and certified in perfect working condition. Needless to say, the lower the mileage, the better. The most competent and confidence building transmission supply company’s have taken extra steps in locating all across the country the units that will outperform cheaper older used transmissions where the life span is limited, thus making it a bad investment.
You may refer to it as an A-518 or a 46RE or 46RH, either way when you call GotTransmissions.com @ 1-888-344-8044, have your VIN ready for exact identification and a perfectly fitting and working used transmission. Guaranteed.
