Yes it can be fixed with the trans in the car. You just need to take the od unit off of the rear of the trans. Mine was driven for a while without the reverse working and it also had messed up the reaction plate in the drum. The plates I needed were like $100 a piece, so I went to pick a part and pulled the od unit off another gc just to get the plates. When I pulled the pan I did not see a snapring until I felt on top of the valve body and there were three pieces about 2 inches each. If you want to talk send me a pm.

 

That is exactly what is happening, it may move several inches back.

 

Mine would backup if you had someone assist by pushing.

 

Jared, it was good to talk to you. Thanks I'll keep you posted!!

Clay B.

 

jared, here is the link to the 42re manual.


http://www.scribd.com/doc/4791235/93...nsmission-42RE

thanks.

 

No engine breaking in 1st gear!!

 

Found this on a dodge forum:

Pretty certian based on the diameter you have given. I see this all the time from the 42RE in the Jeeps all the way up to the diesels. In fact, all the Dodge RWD OD transmissions use the exact same snap ring except the 45RFE and the new 6 speeds.

They seem to break more often in the later models tho and I belive it can be attributed to the change in the OD-direct clutch housing. When I see this housing, I will change them to the earlier style, IF I have any left, and save them for the diesels especially.

The OD-direct clutch is used in engine breaking and for reverse. The OD-direct clutch is only released in overdrive. When this snap ring completely comes out, the trans will operate normally in all forward gears, maybe with a slight flare from 3rd to 4th in some, but wont have any engine breaking when down shifted to the lower gears and no reverse.

Depending on how much of the ring is left in, no noticable condition will exist to a slip in reverse, especially with loads.

And this in a 42re manuel:

If slippage occurs during the 3-4 shift or only infourth gear, the overdrive clutch is slipping. Similarly,if the direct clutch were to fail, the transmission wouldlose both reverse gear and overrun

 

Broken snap ring!!

the clutch hub is scarred up. Is it still good?

 

That's not too bad. You can file that clean. How do the clutches look though?

 

Clutches look good! I Went ahead and bought a new clutch hub.

 

Just more pics.

 

Dropped off the over drive at the trans. shop. Thay
replaced all the parts I bought and pressed the unit
to replace the snap ring for $120. Picked
it up today.

 

Overdrive unit in,
Transfer case in and refilled, drive shafts installed
I HAVE REVERSE!!
Fixed it myself for $190 total!! And everyone
said I needed a rebuild!!

Thanks to ct67_72 and trailer2

 

Good job.

 

Been 3 years and still going strong!!