Experiencing performance problems with your vehicle can be frustrating. Understanding how to diagnose these issues, especially those related to your transmission, is crucial for any car owner. When it comes to the 47RE transmission, a common component in Dodge and Ram trucks, utilizing OBD2 diagnostic tools can be incredibly helpful. Let’s delve into how you can approach diagnosing performance concerns, referencing a real discussion between enthusiasts.
One user, MarkG, raised concerns about a performance issue. A key question to start with is whether the problem persists even when cruise control is engaged. This can help isolate the source of the problem. For manual transmissions with fly-by-wire cruise control, or automatic transmissions with vacuum cruise, the behavior under cruise control can point towards different areas. Specifically, if the issue disappears with cruise control active on a manual transmission, the Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor (APPS) becomes a prime suspect.
To investigate further, you can perform pin-to-pin ohm tests from the APPS to the Engine Control Module (ECM), and from the VP44 injection pump to the ECM. This helps verify the integrity of the wiring. Remember, the ECM ultimately controls the VP44, so signal issues in these circuits can directly impact performance.
Instead of immediately heading to a dealership for a potentially expensive scan, consider using a live data OBD2 tool. Tools like OBDLink LX or MX allow you to monitor live data on the vehicle’s CCD Bus. This is invaluable for observing sensor readings in real-time. You can watch the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) values for any dropouts or erratic changes. Similarly, keep an eye on engine load parameters, specifically fueling amounts, to see if they correspond with the performance cut-outs you are experiencing. This proactive approach empowers you to gather diagnostic information before incurring dealership costs.
Quadzilla tuner interface displaying customizable fuel and timing maps for engine performance tuning, highlighting advanced diagnostic and tuning capabilities beyond basic OBD2 code reading for 47RE transmission and engine issues.
When considering performance enhancements, tuners like the Smarty S-03 are sometimes mentioned. However, it’s important to understand their limitations. The Smarty S-03 offers a modest horsepower gain and limited control over timing and fuel unless you upgrade to more expensive options like the Smarty Touch. Alternatives like Quadzilla offer more comprehensive tuning capabilities at a potentially lower cost, providing full control over fuel and timing maps, often adjustable in real-time via a smartphone interface without the need for ECM flashing for every adjustment.
It’s also worth noting that while OBD2 scanners are excellent for reading generic OBD2 codes, neither Smarty nor Quadzilla tools can read DRBIII codes, which are manufacturer-specific and require tools like the Dodge Dealer Star Scan for access. However, for many common diagnostic needs related to engine and transmission performance, including issues potentially linked to the 47RE, a good OBD2 scanner providing live data is an essential first step in understanding and addressing your vehicle’s concerns.
In conclusion, diagnosing performance issues, especially those potentially related to your 47RE transmission, can be effectively initiated using OBD2 tools and live data monitoring. This approach allows for a data-driven understanding of your vehicle’s behavior, potentially saving you time and money compared to immediately resorting to dealership diagnostics, and provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions about repairs or performance enhancements.
