A Guide to the Automatic Transmission Mount for 1982-1990 Dodge Ramcharger
Eliminate drivetrain clunks and vibrations by understanding and choosing the right replacement transmission mount for your Ramcharger.
- Symptoms include loud clunks when shifting, cabin vibrations, and a feeling of drivetrain movement.
- This is a DIY-friendly repair that can be done with a jack, jack stands, and basic hand tools in under two hours.
- New OEM Mopar parts are unavailable; aftermarket is the only option for a new part.
- While very cheap, Anchor and DEA mounts have a poor reputation for quality and longevity; Pioneer is often considered a better economy-level choice.
Is Your Ramcharger's Transmission Mount Failing?
On a rugged, body-on-frame truck like the 1982-1990 Dodge Ramcharger, the transmission mount works hard to keep the heavy drivetrain components stable. Over decades of use, the rubber in the mount can dry out, crack, or become saturated with oil, causing it to fail. When this happens, you will notice distinct symptoms. 🎬 Watch: 5 signs your transmission mount has failed. Ignoring them can lead to damage to other, more expensive parts.
Symptoms of a Bad Transmission Mount
- Clunking or Banging Noises: The most common sign is a loud 'clunk' or 'thud' when you shift from Park into Drive or Reverse. You may also hear this noise during hard acceleration or when going over bumps as the transmission shifts and hits the frame.
- Excessive Vibration: A worn mount can no longer absorb drivetrain vibrations. You'll feel this shaking in the floor, steering wheel, or throughout the entire truck, especially when idling in gear.
- Drivetrain Movement: You might feel the transmission or shifter move excessively during acceleration. In some cases, you can physically see the engine and transmission rock back and forth more than they should when an assistant revs the engine with the brakes applied.
Don't Mistake It for Other Issues
The symptoms of a bad transmission mount can sometimes be confused with failing engine mounts or U-joints. A clunking noise can also come from worn suspension parts. It's wise to inspect all engine and transmission mounts at the same time. Since they are all the same age, if one has failed, the others may not be far behind.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Mount
For a vehicle from this era, new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts from Mopar are generally discontinued and no longer available. This makes the aftermarket the primary source for a new replacement mount. The available brands are typically economy-focused, but there are differences in perceived quality.
| Brand Tier | Brands | General Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard / Economy | Anchor, DEA Strut (DEA Products) | These are widely available and very affordable. However, many professional mechanics and experienced owners report a higher likelihood of premature failure, poor fitment, or using harder rubber that increases vibration compared to the original part. They can be a viable budget option, but be aware of the potential for a shorter service life. |
| Standard / OEM-Quality | Pioneer Cable (Pioneer Automotive) | Pioneer is also an economy brand but generally receives more positive feedback. Reviewers often note that their parts appear very similar to the original factory mounts and provide good fit and function for the price. Pioneer claims to use a 'Sure-Fit System' to ensure hassle-free installation. For owners looking for a step up from the most basic options without a major price increase, Pioneer is a solid choice. |
Pro Tip: Check Your Crossmember
If your Ramcharger has had major work done or is a project built from multiple trucks, ensure your transmission crossmember is correct for your specific frame and transmission combination. Using a mismatched crossmember can make it impossible to align the mount correctly, leading to installation problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How difficult is it to replace the transmission mount myself?
For a 2WD or 4WD Ramcharger, this is a relatively simple job for a DIY mechanic. It involves safely supporting the truck on jack stands, supporting the transmission's weight with a floor jack, and removing a few bolts. The most important part is ensuring the transmission is properly supported before unbolting the old mount. The entire process can usually be done in 1 to 2 hours with basic hand tools.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing your mount.Do I need any special tools?
No highly specialized tools are required. You will need a good floor jack, sturdy jack stands, a socket set (a 15mm socket is common for this job on Dodge trucks), and possibly a breaker bar for any stubborn bolts. A block of wood to place between the jack and the transmission oil pan is crucial to spread the load and prevent damage.
Should I replace my engine mounts at the same time?
It is highly recommended. The engine and transmission mounts work together to hold the drivetrain in place. If the transmission mount has failed due to age, the engine mounts are likely in similar condition. Replacing all of them at once ensures the entire drivetrain is secure and properly aligned, and prevents the new mount from failing prematurely due to stress from worn engine mounts.
Can I use a polyurethane (poly) mount?
Performance polyurethane mounts are available and offer more durability than rubber. However, they are much stiffer and will transfer significantly more vibration and noise into the cabin. For a daily driver or a truck you want to ride smoothly, it's best to stick with a quality rubber replacement that mimics the original design.
🎬 See how to upgrade your Mopar mount with urethane.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4494475
The mount is a single-piece design, typically consisting of a rubber block bonded between two metal plates or brackets. It bolts to the transmission tail housing and the frame crossmember. For the 1982-1990 Ramcharger, this is a non-hydraulic, standard rubber mount.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Dodge Ramcharger: